One thing that doesn't get mentioned much comparing BG1 and BG2 to BG3, is how quickly 3d animation tends to become very dated in the look.
I definitely thought that in 2000s move to 3d for RPGs was a mistake - those games didn't take advantage of the 3d space, while looking much worse then it's precedessors. Now they look just horrible.
I don't think using 3d is a mistake, especially if you make a use out of a 3d enviroment - 2d background does come with limitations. I think games like Warcraft3 still look pretty decent to this day. And I think there are older 3d games that still look great after years passed. I had no issues reptro playing Max Payne, Thief1&2, Systemshock in spite of their age.
I do think cinematic approach is an issue. To do it half well takes a lot of resources. I don't expect BG3 cinematics to look great on launch, not to mention years after release. Dragon Age: Origins is a good reference point - I thought it was awkward when it released - now it's just offputting. It would be a problem, if like BG1&2, the game didn't try to look like a movie. *shrug* I don't expect BG3 to have that much staying power anyway. It will make a splash, and it will age. Poorly.
