Yes, the maps break immersion. Someone came up with the phrase amusement park map and I think that captures it -- the game is constantly announcing that it is a game.
I called it that but talking about the enemies. Sadly it applies to both, as the encounters are nothing more than the attractions you get directed to by the tunneled game design. Nothing about this game's map and encounter design feels natrual. Even when they put different paths to a location you get the obvious 'haha - you need this skill set to unlock it, do you have it? no? please buy the ticket for this on character creation/party selection'.
The only coherent enemy group are the goblins in on the first map, everything else felt like them showing of what kind of monsters they have and nearly random. Why are we even going to a mage tower with laser guns and robots in the Underdark? What had that to do with anything? DId I miss some compelling story item that really waranted that distraction?
This design is completely immersion breaking. Its nice when you are playing with friends and not really paying attention to the story as you make your own along the way, but exploring it on your own its just feels off.
