funny this thread came up. I just started a playthrough of Icewind Dale and the difference is striking. You create a group of adventurers, hear a very well done voiced intro over a book showing some history of the area. Very relaxing, but it adds some intrigue to the story. And then you're in a tavern relaxing, and someone approaches you with an opportunity. Straight out of a D&D adventure book. It was like putting on a well worn hoodie lol. So comfortable.
Agreed, of all the "starts in a tavern" style ones IWD1 really did it the best imo.
