[Whats up with this game? Or is it me? Probably me . . .]

I should have also added:

Save Often - F5 is your friend.

[Whats up with this game? Or is it me? Probably me . . .]

Like you, I'm wiping a lot, but I have learned a few things along the way.

 

Use Scout mode - this will allow you to get to monsters/enemies quickly and get a few hits off before they notice you.

 

Formations matter - put your weaker characters in the middle of others, your mage can do a lot of damage if they are alive.

 

Use Spells, - they are there to help, don't just charge in and auto attack, use your spells.

 

Rest and heal a lot, use the common rooms in Inns, your Keep etc.

 

Get a well balanced Party, I too started a Ranger, grabbed the mage at the first town, then pre-made the rest of my group, a fighter, a rogue, a bard and a Cleric.

 

Target enemies 1 at a time, and make your whole party go after them, target casters and archers first, then everyone else.

 

I hope the above helps.