More isn't always better, I'd choose quality over quantity any day.
This. And even if the interactions are
good, more isn't always better. In Mass Effect 2/3, or worse the Pathfinder games for instance, talking to everyone in between missions became such a chore. And in those - once you pick them up, they're there forever, too.
I am *so* grateful for the fact that once they disagree enough, they leave or even attempt to kill me. Bring it. That's how NPC's should work They did so in classic Baldur's Gate. Attack Drizzt? Jaheira is gone. Forever. I hated that Mass Effect Paragon/Renegade option that worked everytime and was fine with everyone. For this game, it is my intention to keep my camp clear of everyone that I don't actively have in my party a lot. This way, I save content for future playthroughs.
I used to play computer games more in the style of 'I must do everything, everytime' - but I find it more fun as I grow older - to genuinely roleplay. It's much more compelling, and more of a challenge, too. No reloading, take it as it comes and stick to your guns. Even when I do things like BG1 or BG2, where this is a little harder, and definitely not the maximizing way of play and you can miss out on a lot of things.
For instance:
As a true 2nd Edition Paladin, uphold the law, never steal, never deal with/work for/with evil, never tell a lie, and always face the evil head on - no retreat.
- Allow Greywolf to bring Prism to justice, miss out on the best longsword
- Don't work with either the fishermen or the priestess of Umberlee - Miss out on the best shield
- Say 'no' to the thief that holds the Gauntlets of Ogre Power in the Low Lantern and miss out on the best item in the entire game
- Attack the Cult of the Eyeless head on, miss out on Dex Gloves and Ring of Gaxx, both stupendously good items
- Don't work for Renal Bloodscalp, miss out on exceptional thief gear
- No retreat - face Kirkraag with his henchman mage, ready or not. And on SCS hardcore, that is quite the enemy, not really chapter 2/3 stuff unless you've done *everything* else.
- No undercover work in Ust'Natha, as soon as you're in, find the eggs, and kill everyone there. Again, on SCS, this is not really something you want to do, this must be done level 18 or so, or you'll die big time. Also miss out on the best questline and the best armor in the game.
- Tell Keldorn to have his wife imprisoned and Sir William hung. Let Viconia be arrested in 1, and burn in 2. Get Jan arrested.
- Never cast an arcane spell in Athkatla unless licensed, even indoors [I get that license QUICK].
