It's on sale at GOG and I consider picking it up for the narrative and lovecraftian theme. I always seem to find mixed reviews, with one part of the crowd claiming it's great with all the story and whatnot and the other part stating that the grind kills it for them.

Has the game been changed since its release? How is it as of today? Do you have to do the better part over and over again to progress? Can you avoid the sea battles (which, to me, give the impression of getting boring after the first few due to the mechanic)?

Any details are welcome!

EDIT: thank you all for your replies, it greatly helped me make my decision! See you on the high zeas (;