@OP Check the news tab at top for update info. Quite a lot has changed in how you play the game but some things have not.

If the ore through portal thing bothers you then no it is still the same and probably won't change until they add difficulty options if then.
Personally never found that to be an issue but I know some people do so I mention it.

Blocking was changed totally to include your total health affecting your block power.
Stamina was changed quite a bit as well. I don't have issue managing it personally but I certainly don't have as much oops room as I used to. It's been tweaked and is actually in a good spot right now.

2 new mini bosses. Like the Troll for the Black Forest but other biomes. <no spoilers>

2 New light armor sets. Different perks etc.

New cave areas in mountains with new resources.< these areas are quite good really, larger ones really have some interesting stuff going on>

Food progression was changed. Now you need iron for serpent stew for example. New food upgrades.

Cartography table to share map info. A lot of multiplayer people asked for that and it was added.