How long should I linger in Chapter 2

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Due to time constraints I doubt if I will be able to play BG2 again any time soon. I want to get the most out of the game on the first pass so I do not want to rush through the chapters (I did this in BG1 and regreted it). I get the impression from some of the stuff that I have read that once you move on to chapter 3 and 4 that most of the game is pretty linear and you really don't come back to some of the subquests available in chapter 2. On the other hand, once I do free Imoen I expect she will be way behind my other characters in experience and I might need more subquests to bring here up to fighting strength befor the final chapter(s). I have completed the big subquests (Nalia's Keep, Trademeet, Umar Hills and Windspear) and right now I am doing the paladin stronghold quests. Should I spend more time in Athkatla or get a move on into chapter 3. Once I save Imoen will I be able, or need, to complete some of these subquest to build her levels.

Thanks for the input.

 

You should be able to get through the underdark with a 11-12 level party...not easily, mind you, but it can be done.

 

I personally think Imoen is worth the challenge. She's the best mage/thief in the game as long as your exp isn't very high when you rescue her. I might suggest doing the city quests first as some of those (cult of unseeing eye example) are the ones likely to not be available. I'm almost positive all the outside of the city quests are available after you get out of chap 5. This will make chap 3 and 4 prabably somewhat challenging, and chap 5 is doable without having super high levels(remember chap 3 and 4 give good amounts of experience and you can leave the mind flayers and beholders in the underdark if need be for later). My suggestion is to keep the experience down around 900,000 at least for entering chap 4. Then Imoen will be *only* about 500,000 exp behind you, a figure easily made up.