Playtest Version 2: Initial Thoughts

I've read through the second version of the D&D Next playtest materials and I have some initial reactions. So, in no particular order, here they are...

• I'm disappointed that they changed the surprise rule from the first version of the playtest.
• So humans get a +2 to one ability score and a +1 to all other ability scores. That seems overpowered to me, especially given the flat math of the new edition -- every +1 bonus will be worth a lot more in 5e than it was in previous editions.
• That said, the flat math doesn't seem quite so flat anymore. Looking at the character class packet, it appears that something akin to Base Attack Bonus is returning to the game, although it seems to be increasing along a much flatter curve than in previous editions.
• Fighters no longer suck! In fact, it looks like we can build some pretty awesome and diverse fighter characters using just these basic rules.
• Rarely is it possible to nerf a spell by adding damage, but that's what they've done with Ray of Frost. Now the spell inflicts damage (and it's pretty good damage for a minor spell), but it no longer stops enemies in their tracks.
• Flaming Sphere seems way overpowered.
• Rope Trick is cool. Timothy is going to love it.
• So wizards can cast the ritual version of any spell in their spellbook, without having the spell prepared. Clerics, apparently, can only cast the ritual version of a spell if they have it prepared. Or am I reading that incorrectly?
• They seem to have fixed the problem with heavy armor. Now the typical sword-and-board fighter will not be incentivized to abandon Strength and go with Dexterity-based offensive and defensive options.
• Rogue sneak attack...holy cow! That's some heavy-duty damage!
• Themes are now called Specialties. They appear to be bundles of related feats. As a player, I will probably forgo the Specialty option and just pick from the general feat list (if that's possible).
• Backgrounds, however, are just flat-out awesome. They're my favorite part of D&D Next so far, and I'll follow up with another post explaining why.

Has anyone else had a chance to look over the rules? If so, what do you think? Are they heading in the right direction, or was this a step backwards?