If you have the necessary basic familiarity with the newer D&D rules, Icewind Dale II is a game that you can play for many hours in a single sitting, or just a few minutes ? enough for a single engagement.  The complexity of the rules can make it difficult to determine how to create and advance your characters, fortunately, the point allocation system for starting ability scores saves us the burden of staying up through the wee hours of the night re-rolling characters.  The rules also make this a title given to optimization and min/max styles of play.  The focus on combat doesn?t encourage players to spend experience on skills that align with a charming character concept, but with extensive control over the game?s difficulty level, you can create as much or as little of a min/max challenge as you desire.  Once you are familiar enough with the system, you can enjoy the emphasis on tactics and strategy, and concentrate on preparing your adventurers with appropriate equipment, potions and magic.  As commander of this small group of adventurers you can carefully husband their resources, attack in full-out assaults, and enjoy activities ranging from simple prioritization of targets to carefully scripting your approach to each encounter.​