Quantity meets quality in Baldur's Gate.
It cannot be denied that dice rolling RPGs are not simply a success due to the game mechanics; for many, their largest charm is the ability to dive into another world. So, while it would not be terribly difficult to bring traditional D&D combat to the PC - a transition seeming quite natural throughout the game - an overwhelming challenge presented itself into bringing the fantasy world to life. Though helped along by the extensive (and beautiful) world and intricate plot, the characters that you meet along the way bring the fantasy to life.
The dialogue, for one, is terrific. You'd need a heart made of coal to stop from cracking a smile at Minsc and his magical space hamster, Boo. Even during combat, Minsc can be heard saying - with quality sound and voice acting - "Go for the eyes, Boo! Go for the eyes!" Each of the characters has their own unique, well, character, and you'd be hard pressed not to find yourself attached to each and every one of them. The extensive voice acting throughout the game couples with this characterization to create an incredibly immersive environment.
Adventure and exploration also plays a key role in BG, and there's rarely a dull moment. When traveling across the gameworld you are not forced to enter each area along the way; you need only deal with the occasional random encounters, which eliminates the downtime of walking considerably. There are many quests to be solved, people to meet and treasure to be found, if you are willing to put in the time. Completing everything the game has to offer is a massive undertaking, but one that feels very rewarding in the end.
And, of course, there are many enemies to be slain. Luckily, the games combat rarely falls short of engaging, as there is much to be done in every battle. Magic, items, and melee must be managed for all six members of a full party, in real time if you chose to do so. However, pressing the spacebar allows for the game to be paused while you issue commands to each of your characters. Further, BG allows for each party member to have a customizable AI, so you can concentrate on one or two of them when needed.
BG offers a variety of classes and races to chose from, and a characters place in battle is determined largely by this combination. Necromancers may summon the undead for aid, while a cleric may take a break from hammering to heal the wounded warrior. Each has a specific role, and much strategy can be found outside of battle, in selecting a party, as well as spells and equipment.
While healers and potions can keep your party alive and kicking for a while, eventually you'll need to rest. Resting, while eliminating fatigue, is also necessary for reviving spells and hit points. You can rest either outside a city in a camp, or in an inn. While camping, however, you may get attacked during the night by some foul creature or another, interrupting your rest. Resting should not be used on any whim, as the game clock plays an important role in some quests. Resting too often can push time ahead more quickly than expected.
I've already touched a bit on the technical aspects of BG, but I'll elaborate. The game map is beautiful, the characters are sharp and interesting, and the spell effects will leave few unsatisfied. The voice acting permeates through the game, and the dialogue is terrific. The sound effects and music both seem inspired, and are worthy of this well rounded game.
Those seeking an epic role playing experience on the PC should look no further than Baldur's Gate, except, perhaps, to Tales of the Sword Coast once you're finished.
[Note: I had originally rated this game a 9.4. I re-rated it with a 10.0 because this game is as close to perfection as we are likely to see in our lifetimes. A true groundbreaker in its genre.]