The Age of Decadence is as orthodox as a CRPG can be, it's not the kind of game where you can max out everything. With that in mind, the game thrives on its replay value, there are 8 different backgrounds to choose from and each one favors particular skills and come with a unique missions, but the player is free to level up whatever they want and follow multiple story paths.
It's a hard game at first, but the mechanics are solid and varied. You can finish it by fighting everything you see, making smart business deals, doing quests for the noble houses and everything in between, you really can't play The Age of Decadence just once.
Finally, I'm not sure I would recommend The Age of Decadence as your first CRPG, but if you are new to the genre then I suggest playing as the mercenary or the merchant first because those classes are laser focused on combat and diplomacy respectively and are easy to play. That should give you an idea of what to expect so you can play the more hybrid classes in any way you'd like.
It's a hard game at first, but the mechanics are solid and varied. You can finish it by fighting everything you see, making smart business deals, doing quests for the noble houses and everything in between, you really can't play The Age of Decadence just once.
Finally, I'm not sure I would recommend The Age of Decadence as your first CRPG, but if you are new to the genre then I suggest playing as the mercenary or the merchant first because those classes are laser focused on combat and diplomacy respectively and are easy to play. That should give you an idea of what to expect so you can play the more hybrid classes in any way you'd like.