Slay the Spire II

Which starter character feels most different from StS1?

Does anyone feel like the new characters play fundamentally differently, or are they just tweaked versions of the old ones?

Best relic synergy you've found so far?

What's a relic combo that made you think 'oh, this changes everything' in a run? Doesn't need to be meta.

Alternate acts - worth the risk or trap?

Are the branching paths actually harder/easier, or just different? Anyone regret taking them partway through?