I think the adventure is a strong upgrade to the original and you can run it perfectly well with PCs you made in any fashion. The adventure, like the original, is a sandbox. Each booklet has an initial section with helpful sidebars, but it's otherwise a great 5E version of KotB. The maps and monster cards are sweet. I've heard experienced DMs saying they will run the starter set without the character boards, just as I've heard DMs with new players say they plan on using the character boards with other adventures.Aw, giant rats! I’ve heard so many people gushing over how great the original KotB was and I figured here’s my group’s chance to experience it for ourselves. But we’re veteran enough to not need a “starter” set and all the extra stuff that comes along with it. Don’t get me wrong, I’m glad WotC put out this product to try to draw new people into the game. It’s just that my group isn’t it’s intended audience.