any thoughts on balders gate ?

It's based on 2nd Edition AD&D rules (with some tweaks to make it work via video game), mouse controlled mostly. It's genre-defining title - anyone that likes western RPGs will like this game. It's a little dated, but if you aren't focusing just on the graphics, then you'll like it, I'm sure.

It's a lot more challenging than most of the RPGs we've seen in the last few years, so it might be a little bit of a learning curve, but I HIGHLY recommend this game - it (and Baldur's Gate 2) are my favourite RPGs so far.

It's a gritty approach to fantasy we don't see that often - magic is hard to use, fighters aren't invulnerable, and thieves are not the same as ninjas (though I think you can play an Assassin with the new release that's up on Steam).

To start, I'd recommend a standard fighter as the easiest start class with high constitution, strength and dexterity. Keep the rest of the stats at 10 or more (to avoid penalties). Then go nuts ;)

I think the "cannon" choice is a mage or sorcerer class for reasons I won't disclose, but for a first-time playthrough, a fighter might be easier on you. Your first "party" will, by default, be you and a thief character, (though you'll eventually collect as many as 5 NPCs in your party if you decide to take them on), so you might want to take that into consideration, whatever your choice.

P.S.

Baldur's Gate 2 is basically "Part 2", and is also full of win lol.