I just finished the Shadows Over Soubar portion of The Big Picture, and I must say, I was thoroughly impressed with SOS. I realize it has received its fair share of criticism, but I think this is because people don't appreciate the full scope of the mod. The mod is logical, thought-provoking, and (dare I say it) akin to what an RPG should be! The mod is not some brainless hack and slash mini-game. Although, hack and slash is fun when the mood is right.
How the PC rises through the ranks of the Soubar Militia is realistic. Training the Triel visitors in the Soubar Militia may seem tedious, but I think it is pragmatic. Clicking on each militia member and assigning them a task may seem frustrating, but that is what a captain would have to do! Not the clicking part, but delegating tasks. I actually felt like I was the captain! Imagination is a glorious thing.
The only downside to the mod, IMO, was the voice acting. None of the voice actors had any passion or spunk, but I can't fault CBisson for that. As a creator, when it comes to someone volunteering their voice, you take what you can get. I know CtB is better in this aspect.
Overall, I say job well done, CB! You brought Baldur's Gate 2 back to its roots: roleplaying. That is why I purchased BG2 in the first place, to roleplay and have fun, and that is exactly what I received from Shadows Over Soubar.
