Note that the TAB key still displays character hit points. Characters interact with the environment on screen via player input through the mouse. The action can be paused at any time by pressing the space bar. As such, the player can direct each character with precision even during a heated battle. The gameplay experience is closer to BG1, which, to me, was more fun to play than BG2.
Experience points abound, and quest rewards are plentiful.
Summoned creatures now included Devas, Planetars, and Elemental Princes. New and powerful items are frequently discovered as well as upgraded via your imp. The imp can be annoying, however. Instead of skipping right to the item he can upgrade for you, your imp will prattle through the possible upgrades and needed items for such upgrades. In the end, appreciation for the item more than outweighs the annoyance generated.