I second the skill checks in conversations, related not only to skills but also the etiquette you choose at character creation. Mine hasn't come up yet (I choose 'street') but I've seen 'gang' and 'security' a few times in the early game.
It's a wild combination of elves, trolls, magic, hacking, guns, humans, etc in a cyberpunk future. The writing is great (and the main focus of the game).
It's pretty linear so far and lack of save anywhere can be a hassle. The game uses autosave checkpoints.
The visual style, writing, and turn-based combat with a cover system, plus the unique setting, are the game's strengths and I'm having fun playing it.
It's very reminiscent of 80's era William Gibson, and I get the impression that comes from the original Shadowrun release in 89.