It’s actually good that you have a prelude to the kingdom building. You will get to know your characters for a reason…plus you do need to get a feel for the combat, its really not that hard if you ever played NWN1/2 or even SWTOR and BG. Just make sure to save before big battles and use your potions wisely (ie restoration).
Theres nothing more satisfying when you develop a strategy to a battle and actually win it! Also with the ruleset, the combat does have a feel for a frontline of combat. You can actually have a wall of melee to block as Opportune attacks can belittle oppionents trying to get to your flank.
It also helps to make an Alchemist who can bomb the shit out of the enemy! STUPID DOOMSPIDERS!