Naturally, it is fitting that your companions play a huge role in BG2, influencing your decisions as you bond with them throughout your journey. The NPCs are extremely well-developed, with their own unique quests, personality and banter with you or with each other, which was the biggest improvement compared to its predecessor. Each NPC will remember their previous conversations with you and react to your decisions accordingly, allowing you to be their friend or enemy, or even start a romantic relationship. This is the part I enjoyed the most in BG2; it was such a satisfying experience, to get to know them, help them develop and even save their soul.

Most of your companions can be found within the city of Athkatla, which functions as your base of operations in the early game, where you are given freedom to explore and experience the city and other neighbouring regions. Athkatla is a delight to explore; each part of the city is well fleshed out, populated by townsfolk of different statuses or professions. While it outwardly appears that the city is co-governed by a merchant council and a sinister group of mages, there are other powerful organisations that play prominent roles and soon you will find yourself caught amidst their struggle over control of the city. You also have the chance to increase your standing within Athkatla through the stronghold quests which vary depending on your player character's chosen class.

During your journey, you'll find a wealth of sidequests; so much that you might feel overwhelmed at times. Most of the quests are varied, well-written, and often incorporate puzzles, ranging from simple riddles, to elaborate plots with you playing the role of a detective – for example, one has you attempting to prove your sanity by answering riddles in order to escape from a prison where mental “deviants” are held.