I think the level design of DS2 is a tad forgettable, but the difference between the two is DS2 combat is a more coherent combat system. So the way all the weapons are balanced against each other, the number of options you have for weapons and armor (that actually work), etc are massively higher than DS1.
Capra Demon sorted. Used Hidden Body so dogs don't rush attack. Get Hidden Body from rescuing that girl from a Golden Golem in the lake
Those bastards Ornstein and Fat Git are very annoying. I'm doing a run with no MP support. This basically entails no levelling up just levelling the gear. I never see summon signs and I'm L25 dealing with Anor Londo.
Used about 25 Humanity trying to cut those two bastards down to size with only the NPC help. Eventually did it..... took about 2 weeks. Had a whiskey in celebration, a real one.
Sif went down like a sack of shit after I got the ring that lets you do cartwheels and double handed the fire sword from the spider boss.