Decided to buy Icewind Dale: EE despite owning the original on CD as well as GOG. I was hesitant for a long time seeing how many EE features can be modded in, but after trying it out I think all the QOL changes are worth it for me. I guess some of the key features can be modded in, but the EE offers a package of things that I wanted and didn't know I wanted, like the loot menu, eliminating the need to go pilfer each body one at a time, among other features. One of the biggest fears were the inclusion of spells, items, races, classes, and kits in IWD and BG1 that are pretty over powered for the content, but I've come to realize that I've played these games so many times that there really isn't that much challenge to be had either way. There's still the difficulty slider to even things out a bit, but veteran players are going to have to come up with self-imposed limitations to feel a real challenge either way. I still think new players should experience these games first with the classes and races that were intended as that way there can still be an appropriate amount of challenge for them.
Anyway, Icewind Dale is as comfy as always. Its been snowing for 3 days straight where I live so I'm in the perfect mood to play it. I got to Dragon's Eye yesterday with my Fighter, Fighter/Thief, Paladin, Cleric, Druid, Wizard party. I slightly regret the Fighter/Thief and wish I had maybe taken another pure Fighter instead since I forgot how disarming traps in IWD isn't so important (I can never remember if its BG or IWD that rewards the player with XP for disarming) but oh well, they still perform fine in combat, and at least I was able to pickpocket a few magical starter items in Kuldahar I guess.