I played Witcher 2 a bit, got it as a gift some time ago when it was on sale. I have no idea about the first one so I can't compare things for you, but you've got a bit of a wonky targeting system that takes a bit to get used to, and you're locked in third person. It also takes a little getting used to the spells or powers you have as well. I remember reading some review that gave it a 7.8/10, the last part of the game went really downhill, and the start was a pain to get though but in all it was fun.
Could take my opinion with a grain of salt considering I've only played it for about eight hours.
I should compile the list of things I got for myself and friends or something.