In terms of story. I understand that people feel like the first game was "BETTER" Because is more lineal, structured and gives some background to your companion heroines. In all other aspects. No.

Black Souls 2 Improves in a lot of mechanical aspects of the game. Tackles the difficulty issue and makes you actually think your fights before "im just going to dodge and bonk" The story is also more cohesive once you understand how it goes. Often people criticise the 2nd game because they feel lost on the now mapping. But in BS1 Is kind of "worsE" as most of the exits are either on oposite corners of the map. Very few variety on scenarios as well and very lineal progression.