It's like the language / cadence. Or maybe the things they "expect D&D to be". A few examples:
the interchange with merchants is not not something I'm accustomed to - this seems to be a big part of the experience
the depth-of-character is really impressive, but again, I'm simply not accustomed...
I've been playing D&D since the red box. I am now 52 and playing with a group who is heavily influenced by critical role. I've only watched snippets of critical role, but I'm happy it has brought younger folks to the table.
I adjusted to the new group by using the digital tools as opposed to...