I am a sort of newbie here. I have played the game once, but it was too boring somewhere around Vivec. Now, I'd like to give it a second chance.
1) Is there any must-have plug-in for the game? Something as Tactics for BG2? What are the most popular plug-ins? Is there AD&D one (yeah, right)?
2) Are there real magic items - every item I've found uses charges?
3) What is "fortify"? I take it prevents ability draining.
4) Is there any sex in the game?

Does gender have any influence on dialogs?
5) Persuasion: does it matter how high the reputation is when I admire? If it is zero, it never succeeds. What is the use of intimidate? Taunt is used to get people to attack you, IIRC.
6) Which race to take for bard?