I do agree with you, OP. I'm a long time D&D gamer too and loved BG 1&2.
I do like many things about the new game and I enjoy it, but I find the companions too much, basically Mary Sues and 'main characters'. The story is overblown, with too much high level stuff, that fit dumbed down and yes, I would like a little normal town with some small quests and lesser grand schemes in the first act.

"We are all stories in the end. Just make it a good one."

Doctor Who