Divinity: Original Sin 2

[Toe]

The damn black cat and my OCD is ruining the game for me. I keep trying to keep it alive and it either gets killed during a battle or disappears for no reason. I keep reloading but each time I eventually lose it, get pissed and stop wanting to play.

That is really weird. I made no effort at all to keep the black cat alive. He never got killed once and I never had to reload. He would always just stay out of the way during combat so I never even thought of it. I'm glad he made it because his spell is super handy for my melee character.

If he just disappears, don't worry about that. He always shows up again as long as he wasn't outright killed. If you don't see his body then I wouldn't worry.

The only thing I have seen kill him is the archer magister outside the front gate of the magisters keep. I have noticed the cat does not climb up or down stuff (ladders, etc). So if the cat did not get killed, he could be stuck somewhere you went up or down. For me it was when I left the magisters keep by a ladder to return to fort joy town area. You get the spell when you enter the marshes from the prison sewer drain with the cat in tow (maybe in other ways to, that was just the one I noticed).

[Jaymann]

Later on I got a summon cat spell (don't remember exactly how) which is very cool. It is very weak but makes for a great distraction - I love it when they waste their big spell on a cat. It can leap pretty far, and can swap places with its master!

[Jaymann]

Well I have opened the path to the final battle at level 22 + 90%. I really wanted to get to level 23 to get some slightly higher level gear, but I did all quests (a few were broken) and there is nothing left to kill. I may level during the final battle, we shall see how this works out.

Edit: Yes! I did level during the final battle and it was enough.

Spoiler:

And you essentially get source powers for no source points which makes a huge difference.

Now I need to consider a new party makeup.

[ColdSteel]

Well I have opened the path to the final battle at level 22 + 90%.

Good lord man. I'm still level 10 early in Act 2 and I've been playing a lot. You must not have slept in the past week.

[Jaymann]

Well I have opened the path to the final battle at level 22 + 90%.

Good lord man. I'm still level 10 early in Act 2 and I've been playing a lot. You must not have slept in the past week.

It's true. I'm already level 5 on my next play through.

[Cylus Maxii]

I still haven't received my collector's edition. I can't believe it was shipped from Germany. Its still somewhere in transit. Damn I'm missing out. This sucks.

[coopasonic]

Well I have opened the path to the final battle at level 22 + 90%.

Good lord man. I'm still level 10 early in Act 2 and I've been playing a lot. You must not have slept in the past week.

It's true. I'm already level 5 on my net play through.

I'm still level 5 on my first playthrough.

[Skinypupy]

I'm really on the fence with this game. On the one hand, the reviews are amazing and I like the idea of an engaging story with an old-school feel. On the other hand, I really struggle with games that are overly difficult or complex, and this seems to be both. One of my biggest pet peeves in an RPG is not knowing what to do next, and I've seen that concern come up multiple times around this game

Also, the entire last batch of CRPG's (Divinity, Pillars of Eternity, Torment, Tyranny) have left me completely cold. I have a hard time even really figuring out why...I just get 8-10 hours into them and lose interest in the massive amount of complexity in their systems. All I really remember about the last Divinity game was throwing my hands up in frustration after getting caught in some loop about a space goblin asking me if I wanted to drink tea.

[Jag]

I'm really on the fence with this game. On the one hand, the reviews are amazing and I like the idea of an engaging story with an old-school feel. On the other hand, I really struggle with games that are overly difficult or complex, and this seems to be both. One of my biggest pet peeves in an RPG is not knowing what to do next, and I've seen that concern come up multiple times around this game

Also, the entire last batch of CRPG's (Divinity, Pillars of Eternity, Torment, Tyranny) have left me completely cold. I have a hard time even really figuring out why...I just get 8-10 hours into them and lose interest in the massive amount of complexity in their systems. All I really remember about the last Divinity game was throwing my hands up in frustration after getting caught in some loop about a space goblin asking me if I wanted to drink tea.

Based on what you've said, this is not the game for you. It's one of my top all time RPGs, but I like all the things you listed as negatives

[Jaymann]

This is probably a good definition of insanity:

I actually dinged level 9 before leaving the Fort Joy island. I doubt even the developers dreamed this was possible. I had to do every single quest to completion and kill everything alive (at least that would give exp) on the island, except for Gareth, since I was afraid that would bork things later. The sweet point is that Feder (must have pet pal) will sell you legendary items when you reach level 9. To me this is a greater accomplishment than beating the game.

[ColdSteel]

The sweet point is that Feder (must have pet pal) will sell you legendary items when you reach level 9.

Why do you need pet pal? Once her quest is finished and she's turned into a human again, pet pal is not needed to speak and trade with Feder.

[Jaymann]

The sweet point is that Feder (must have pet pal) will sell you legendary items when you reach level 9.

Why do you need pet pal? Once her quest is finished and she's turned into a human again, pet pal is not needed to speak and trade with Feder.

You need it to talk to her to tell her how to revert to human.

[ColdSteel]

You need it to talk to her to tell her how to revert to human.

Indeed you do. I thought you meant you had to have it to trade with her.

[Skinypupy]

I'm really on the fence with this game. On the one hand, the reviews are amazing and I like the idea of an engaging story with an old-school feel. On the other hand, I really struggle with games that are overly difficult or complex, and this seems to be both. One of my biggest pet peeves in an RPG is not knowing what to do next, and I've seen that concern come up multiple times around this game

Also, the entire last batch of CRPG's (Divinity, Pillars of Eternity, Torment, Tyranny) have left me completely cold. I have a hard time even really figuring out why...I just get 8-10 hours into them and lose interest in the massive amount of complexity in their systems. All I really remember about the last Divinity game was throwing my hands up in frustration after getting caught in some loop about a space goblin asking me if I wanted to drink tea.

Based on what you've said, this is not the game for you. It's one of my top all time RPGs, but I like all the things you listed as negatives

True, but I broke down and picked it up yesterday anyways.

Put a couple hours in last night, and am really enjoying it so far. A couple things:

1. I spent quite a bit of time watching a few "Things I wish I knew before I started Divinity 2" or "Beginner's Guide" videos before starting to play. Understanding a few basics (since the game doesn't do a very good job of telling you) from the get go has been a huge help.
2. Having everything voiced over is a huge help for me. My eyesight isn't very good to begin with, and my eyes get really tired by the end of the day. It's a little embarrassing, but having to read so much has been one of the big barriers for me in this current crop of CRPG's. I also love, love, love the Narrator. He gives such awesome little details that really help to make scenes come alive, rather than just a series of dialog choices. I wish they would have found a different voice actor though.
3. The game looks and sounds absolutely amazing. I've been really just blown away at how immersive the world is. Being able to choose the specific instrument you want the music to focus on during character creation...what an incredible little touch!
4. I lowered the difficulty, and it seems just about right...so far. Hoping that won't become a huge barrier.

My biggest challenge now is figuring out how to build my party. I'm playing a Knight, Red Prince is a Wizard, and Fane is a Rogue. Need to pick up one more party member and make them a Cleric, then figure out sub-skills for each one.

So far, so good.

[Jag]

My biggest challenge now is figuring out how to build my party. I'm playing a Knight, Red Prince is a Wizard, and Fane is a Rogue. Need to pick up one more party member and make them a Cleric, then figure out sub-skills for each one.

I wouldn't worry about strict party roles. Although having a specialist in physical damage and magic damage is good depending on who you are fighting. I went tank (Prince), wizard (Fane), rogue (Sebille), ranger (Ifan).

Protip: Give your wizard a wand and shield. The armor (magic and phys) from shields becomes insane and more than offsets losing staff stats. I would take a full party of 4 right off the bat.

Stripping shields and CCing is the name of the game. Second most important thing is summons. I like the necro bone spider thing. At summoning level 10, your incarnate doubles in size and strength!

Give at least one character decent thieving and steal everything. Make sure to teleport away after pickpocketing so you don't get caught. Each character can only pickpocket the same vendor once only.

Try one character with Lucky Charm and make sure they are your looter. I found some insane gear with it.

You don't need a dedicated healer, since most skills have some form of healing. Armor is more important that healing, so buffing and keeping armor up (phys/magic) is more important. Later game if they are into your health, you have a bigger problem.

Also regarding speccing classes, something early in Act II (right after Fort Joy) is a big help:

Spoiler:

You get free and unlimited respecs on the ship.

[ColdSteel]

Protip: Give your wizard a wand and shield. The armor (magic and phys) from shields becomes insane and more than offsets losing staff stats. I would take a full party of 4 right off the bat.

So much this. I gave my wizard a shield around level 10 and haven't looked back since. She hasn't even come close to dying. The 'shields up' spell that comes with shields will really save your bacon. She stood in the middle of necrofire for an entire battle at level 13 and was never in danger at all.

[Jag]

Protip: Give your wizard a wand and shield. The armor (magic and phys) from shields becomes insane and more than offsets losing staff stats. I would take a full party of 4 right off the bat.

So much this. I gave my wizard a shield around level 10 and haven't looked back since. She hasn't even come close to dying. The 'shields up' spell that comes with shields will really save your bacon. She stood in the middle of necrofire for an entire battle at level 13 and was never in danger at all.

Also with 1 point of Warfare, they get the ridiculously overpowered shield throw spell (forgot the name). That can strip down phys shields in one shot.

Oh and the Necro summons was Bone Widow. Also way OP.

[Jaymann]

Another pro tip:
Give everybody the Escapist talent. Allows you to take on more than you can reasonably handle, whittle down the opposition, escape then come back to finish the job.

[Jag]

Shields lol

[KDH]

... ...

How To Use Steam Workshop Mods With The GOG Version

and ..

Divinity: Original Sin 2 Mods



In case anybody is interested

[Daehawk]

Oh mods..I should get some....maybe one day Ill get the game. Im on a 3 year behind purchase on games.

[TheMix]

Oh mods..I should get some....maybe one day Ill get the game. Im on a 3 year behind purchase on games.

You shouldn't. You really shouldn't.

You know if you start down the mod path, that you'll never play the game, right? You'll run into problems and end up uninstalling.

[Jaymann]

... ...

How To Use Steam Workshop Mods With The GOG Version

and ..

Divinity: Original Sin 2 Mods

In case anybody is interested

That Tempest class (for spear wielding) looks interesting. Up until now spears have been a no-go because they are finesse based.

[Daehawk]

Oh mods..I should get some....maybe one day Ill get the game. Im on a 3 year behind purchase on games.

You shouldn't. You really shouldn't.

You know if you start down the mod path, that you'll never play the game, right? You'll run into problems and end up uninstalling.

[Smoove_B]

A 4.3 GB patch? Seriously...F Century Link DSL.

[Jaymann]

A 4.3 GB patch? Seriously...F Century Link DSL.

This change I like:
Pressing the right mouse button now stops all characters’ movement chained to the current character (except it doesn't work)

This one I don't:
Reduced Chicken form running distance to 6 meters

One of my favorite tactics is to apply ruptured tendons plus chicken form so they run to their death.

[Jaymann]

A 4.3 GB patch? Seriously...F Century Link DSL.

This change I like:
Pressing the right mouse button now stops all characters’ movement chained to the current character (except it doesn't work)

This one I don't:
Reduced Chicken form running distance to 6 meters

One of my favorite tactics is to apply ruptured tendons plus chicken form so they run to their death.

Ah, I see what happened. I logged on to Steam and got a big patch, but apparently this is another new patch. This is why I usually keep Steam offline (and turn off auto patch) so I don't download patches unless I am sure I want them.

[Jaymann]

Here is a little loading trick I figured out:
Instead of using the icon installed at setup, create your own shortcut linked to the game executable. It shortens load times and you don't get their stupid error message.

[KDH]

...

GOG, in cooperation with NexusMods, offer up a list of

"Essential" Mods for Div: OS2

Spoiler:

Tidy Skillbars
This simple QoL mod does wonders for keeping your skill bar nice and organized. By default any new items and objects you pick up get placed in your skill bar. This mod simply stops that from happening. No more need to constantly sort your skill bar and move/remove items!

Timed Autosaves
This mod makes some helpful improvements to the autosave feature. It is configurable to 5, 10, or 20 minute intervals, and takes precaution against accidentally saving in a bad situation by not allowing autosaves during combat.

Crafting Overhaul
Where to even begin with this one? This mod should really be called "Crafting Expansion". The ability to turn glass junk into potion bottles, break down unwanted clothing and armor into scrap pieces (which can then be used to improve other armors), and the ability to build crafting stations on-the-go are just a few examples of the many additions this mod brings to the game.

Expanded Party Size
As you may have assumed by the title, this mod allows more party members. There is also an optional file to increase difficulty if you feel that having additional party members would make the game too easy.

Combat Sneak
This mod simply reduces the AP cost of sneaking in combat from 4 to 2, making stealth a much more viable approach to combat. If you're the stealthy type and found sneaking in combat to be lacking, this mod should fix that right up.

Enemy Randomization
This mod gives baddies a randomly generated permanent buff at the start of combat. The real risk/reward comes from the 15% chance to transform an enemy into a "champion", which gives them several skills and buffs. This stat boost is accompanied by better loot drops though, so it's not all weighted against you.

More Monster Spawns
If you're looking to increase the difficulty of D:OS2 without increasing enemy stats, this is a good option. It greatly increases the number of enemy spawns across every area in the game. Similar to the last mod there is a risk/reward to using this mod. More baddies means harder combat, but more loot!

No Psychic Enemies
You're an undead, covered in armor from head to toe. Just how do the bad guys know that healing spells will hurt you? This mod nerfs the "Loremaster" skill on enemies, preventing them from inexplicably knowing what your resistances are. Perfect for the undead, great for everyone.

Improved Camera
With this mod installed you can increase the maximum zoom out distance and apply vertical tilt while the middle mouse button is pressed. This gives the camera control a feeling more akin to classic 3rd person camera controls and allows you to see more of what's around you!

Fast Run Speed
If you find the default movement speed too slow, this is the mod you are looking for. It comes in two flavors. The first increases movement speed by 30% and the second doubles movement speed.

Listed Mods are linked in the link .. eh, you'll figure it out

[Daehawk]

For someone who has only play the very first Divine Divinity would Original Sin 1 be where to start or just skip it and play Original Sin 2 sometime?

[Jaymann]

For someone who has only play the very first Divine Divinity would Original Sin 1 be where to start or just skip it and play Original Sin 2 sometime?

I would start with the OS1 Enhanced Edition. A great game in its own right, and OS2 is different enough to be a unique experience.

[Glycerine]

OS2 is actually much harder as well, at least in my opinion.

[Daehawk]

Well Ive installed the first one and hope to start on it this weekend or next week. Or after Fallout 3 or something..sometime.

[Daehawk]

I was gifted OS2 and am having trouble starting. I finally decided to play it in Story Mode because Id like to see the world and do the quests but dont want to spend an hour on a fight.

But now Im stuck with should I create a new character of my own like I always do in RPGs if I can or should I use a premade one? Im not sure what the good / bad to these choices are. Or which is better / more fun.

EDIT: I read all the posts in this thread about character creation but none of that really helped.

[hepcat]

Oh man, the combat in DOS 2 is the main selling point. It’s so darn great. I never spent an hour on a fight, but I certainly could have and enjoyed every second of it. You must not be a big fan of XCom or other tactical games, I imagine.

To be honest, I’d say just avoid the game entirely as it sounds like it’s not really something you’ll end up enjoying.

[Anonymous Bosch]

Oh man, the combat in DOS 2 is the main selling point. It’s so darn great. I never spent an hour on a fight, but I certainly could have and enjoyed every second of it. You must not be a big fan of XCom or other tactical games, I imagine.

To be honest, I’d say just avoid the game entirely as it sounds like it’s not really something you’ll end up enjoying.

Amen, absolutely this.

As hepcat correctly observes, you'll be depriving yourself of perhaps the most outstanding and enjoyable turn-based tactical squad combat system since XCOM. Sure, the story and writing are more than adequate, but the thought-provoking combat is where the game truly shines and comes into its own. Suffice to say, the combat system plays quite similarly to XCOM where positioning, terrain, and the elements can all play a crucial role in achieving success in enemy encounters.

If you have the time, I highly recommend checking out MajorSlack's series of Divinity: Original Sin 2 video walkthroughs if you'd like to get the most out of it and aim to get going as quickly and easily as possible. You don't need to watch the entire series, but the first four or five videos supply a wealth of tremendously useful info, and his 'Level 4 Power Start' provides a rock-solid blank slate template from which to experiment with any character builds you like.

[Daehawk]

When I first started PC gaming in the mid 90s I liked turn based stuff. The turn based space games were my favorite. But as much as I wanted to I never could enjoy Xcom . Now days I pretty much hate tactical combat entirely. I love real time and I love real time with pause. But pure turn based no. Its why even though Im a huge Baldurs Gate fanboy I have zero interest in BG3. I do love RPGs though. And this ones story and looks seem great.

EDIT: Thinking back to the first game I dont recall the combat bothering me. What ruined it for me was the inter party chats that I had to control for both chatters. One would be fine but dont want to talk to myself. I would rather let the party talk to each other like in BG and ME.

[Jaymann]

When I first started PC gaming in the mid 90s I liked turn based stuff. The turn based space games were my favorite. But as much as I wanted to I never could enjoy Xcom . Now days I pretty much hate tactical combat entirely. I love real time and I love real time with pause. But pure turn based no. Its why even though Im a huge Baldurs Gate fanboy I have zero interest in BG3. I do love RPGs though. And this ones story and looks seem great.

You mean to say you read all my tips and hints and it didn't help?!? Anyway, I am exactly the opposite, I will pretty much only play turn based. If a game makes battles that are too insanely difficult, I will scum save before every turn. Missed my hit? <Reload>. Enemy scores a crit? <Reload>. I don't care if a battle takes an hour, I refuse to lose. Different strokes.

[Anonymous Bosch]

When I first started PC gaming in the mid 90s I liked turn based stuff. The turn based space games were my favorite. But as much as I wanted to I never could enjoy Xcom . Now days I pretty much hate tactical combat entirely. I love real time and I love real time with pause. But pure turn based no. Its why even though Im a huge Baldurs Gate fanboy I have zero interest in BG3. I do love RPGs though. And this ones story and looks seem great.

In that case, you're almost certain to end up frustrated and overwhelmed.

Turn-based tactical combat makes up a huge part of this game's appeal, and even playing on Story Mode difficulty will certainly not eliminate it. It'll make fighting easier… though significantly less satisfying and more boring without the challenges the combat system was originally designed to represent. So if you were never able to enjoy XCOM, Divinity: Original Sin 2's additional depth and complexity = a surefire recipe for tedium and exasperation. I suspect the inventory system will likely also frustrate you to no end in terms of figuring out what to keep (for crafting or quests) and what is flavour text. You've mentioned elsewhere how reading irks you, so just trying to sort out your inventory is likely to cause much aggravation.

As hepcat put it:

To be honest, I’d say just avoid the game entirely as it sounds like it’s not really something you’ll end up enjoying.

[hepcat]

Now I want to play it again...

But no, I've got Desperadoes III for some tactical goodness. So I'll stick with that for now.