I thought the game play was very linear throughout but I suppose that is needed when you are trying to tell a story. The game really shines in multiplayer though and if you can get a good group together with a good DM who knows the dm client in the game you can have a blast. Check out
http://www.neverwinterconnections.com.
If you want to have a few more options with your henchman, such as managing their inventory, check out the henchman scripts at bioware's website.