I just finished the story. I don't know why it's not working for you - I liked how it feels, but have to admit the story didn't grip me as much as in the previous game. It looks like it's setting up an interesting character journey for Cal for the third game though.
I'd say, try not to get distracted with the open world - explore a little bit, but try to stick to the main story so you can finish it before you burn out on the open world (I learned this the hard way with Witcher 3 and AC: Valhalla).
I just finished the story. I don't know why it's not working for you - I liked how it feels, but have to admit the story didn't grip me as much as in the previous game. It looks like it's setting up an interesting character journey for Cal for the third game though.
I'd say, try not to get distracted with the open world - explore a little bit, but try to stick to the main story so you can finish it before you burn out on the open world (I learned this the hard way with Witcher 3 and AC: Valhalla).