my in-game solution to the difficulty problem

[Hebruixe]

This is how I kept the combat dangerous and exciting throughout the game. It isn't for everyone. But it breathed new life into the gameplay experience of acts 2-3 for me, and I suggest others try it out.

 

When my premade party (Eder, Aloth, etc.) reached level 8, I retired them to Caed Nua as "veterans" enjoying a vacation from life as adventurers. I created custom characters around level 2-3. I gave them all my best gear so they had a fighting chance. And with that party of nooblings (led my high-level main character) I rediscovered the danger and excitement of early Act 1. I recommend it to anyone.

[Serdan]

IE Mod has an option to nerf XP.

http://www.nexusmods.com/pillarsofeternity/mods/1