NL is pretty bad, but not that bad. Some people really like it. Mostly the ones looking for an experience that is even more Trammel than Trammel.
It got me back to playing. A lot is different but I think it's good.
The interaction with a towns NPCs kind of brings life and a new type content. It's definitely got a whole lot of role playing potential.
If it keeps incorporating this type of interaction with NPC throughout end game, it could be pretty cool.
Initially, I went into the game looking to level characters in the same way we've come accustomed to. I was confused and let down at first... As the confusion turned to experience, I really started liking the game.
Give it another shot and see if you can start to like it too. Let me know if I can help.