It is what It is

massive overarching narrative tied to the beginning quests but the research and investigation details pay off because the party actually cares about the research

the ending results in the loss of the entire magic system (arcane and divine) with devastating consequences to the world and the party members themselves

an ending which was frankly not telegraphed as being the final consequence but was explored within the epilogue

the party have many arguments about the morality of their actions but challenge each other in ways that lead to meaningful and long-term character development/arcs (and they come back to these arguments several times)

character deaths that have long-lasting impact on the other PCs and are brought back in meaningful ways to the narrative

double paladin party; both paladins are invested in their gods without doubting their faith

BLACK SAILS