1 if you can handle the fact that it's really traditional, but well, it started a long series for a reason. It's the updated Dawn of Souls version, which is even better.
2 is quirky. You level stats by 'using' them, instead of gaining levels to increase stats, you learn spells through spell books. However, its story is a little bit stronger (not by much). Dawn of Souls adds a post-game thing that's mostly inconsequential.