Unless you've been responding to someone else, I have no idea how the Pause function is even related to this. Elaborate?
And yes, TW has stats and Healthbars as well, but what I meant, is the comparison of combat itself. In TW3, you can mostly see the damage you've done, and every attack feels somewhat rewarding and reactive. While in DAI, it's more about utilizing all the abilities to whittle the opponents healthbar down, and that's literally it. It's missing the visceral edge that was kinda present in DA:O.
My ideal combat would be a mix of DA:O and the fluidity and reaction of TW3. And yes, the pause button stays.
As mentioned elsewhere, DAO had finishing moves, and DA2 had finishing cut-scenes. But while DAI does not, it does have combo effects and a Pause mechanic; features that TW3 may or may not include.
Now I have not used melee much yet for the Inq, but I understand that a S&S build can time and block attacks if desired. I choose to utilize Pause and Tac-Cam to play a less Action oriented style, but apparently Action mode can be more immersive for some.
As for visceral effect, I much prefer DAI over the previous series for pacing in combat. DAO felt sluggish as a 2H, and DA2 was too harried and weapons felt plastic, IMO.
For visuals, am satisfied seeing a Giant get caught in a combo, and watch it springboard for an apparent kill. I do not use Floating Text, so I have no idea what set it up, but as it was going to stomp on the Inq at the time, my Fade Cloak did something that felt right. But I utilize a lesser Gore setting on games when available; splashing blood is often overdone and looks silly to me.