I played as a hybrid, mage with swords; maxed both after about more than 120 hours of going all over the place (but not completing all quests ofcourse). My ultimate joy was when I was able to summon the dead army (near the end as you can only get this when you align with one of the gods - Beliar I think). I can take whole armies with those zombies and skeletons - well I used fireballs and lighting storms as well! The melee, especially the dual wield is very satisfying and you can hack and slash with style to your heart's content.