On paper, Skyrim should not be as memorable as it is. A forgettable story, slow combat, shallow RPG mechanics, and short side quest lines. Ultimately the game is saved by the inexplicable “it factor” that makes Skyrim feel so completely unique.
I am still working through this game but I completely understand why it won the GotY award. Even as a certified D&D 5e hater, BG3 adopts it very well and even improves upon the source game’s rules.