the first game can be mad clunky in terms of gameplay. If you want a precursor, I'd suggest starting with the second.
With that said, a lot of the gripes with the second also have to do with a high combat learning curve, similar to the Souls games. This has supposedly been alleviated with the third game though. I've started up the second game twice now, and I agree that combat can take time to get into.
My advice is to watch some youtube vid catching you up with the events of the first two games, then just jump right into the third. Apparently a huge game so if you dig it you'll have plenty to sink your teeth into.