if you be to take the best aspect of the Fallout series and throw in some element from the Baldur 's gate series and then combine they to form this excellent rpg adventure . from the get go every decision you make will alter the path of the game . from choose a Male Elf or a female human you decision effect the outcome of the game . the First overwhelming aspect of the game be the leveling system . unlike game such as Diablo , Arcanum have a vast array of stats , skill , technology , and magick to distribute ability point to . try to stay balance among all of the available option will result in a very difficult game . however if you specialize in a certain skill , technology , or Magick you will have a stronger character . the combat engine be a very unique one that adjust to you play style . if you be use to hack and slash RPG 's you might enjoy the real-time combat . however if you use to Fallout or Baldur 's gate turn base approach you can choose the turn base mode . there be even a cross between the two call fast turn base Mode which speed up the turn base movement a bit . in any case there be a mode for everyone . another large part of this game be the development of you character . through conversation and you action you will develop a reputation . in addition if you focus you talent on Magick or Technology certain people will treat you differently . the entire land of Arcanum be divide between magick and technology . choose a focus be the most difficult task . throughout the game you will have the ability to meet other character that will join you on you quest if you leadership ability be high enough and you request they assistance . when you gain control of these npc 's they act as real people . each one have its own personality and objective . they all can be upset by you action and sometime might even decide to attack you and the rest of you party . some npc 's be good some be evil . base on you character alignment you will get along better with some than other . however , this be half the fun . on the negative side you will find several bug , most of which should be fix with the release of the new patch . on a unfortunate note the multiplayer be design to be play on what use to be won.net . be won.net have officially close shop and be currently be run by a minimal staff large lag time and several bug a present here . most people be hope for a addition of tcp\/ip to the network setting allow player to play on GameSpy or Kali . on another note the biggest flaw in this game release be the Manual . it be completely unorganized and will provide little to any assistance . there be no Table of Contents or Glossary and to find the information you want you will have to a. read it from cover to cover . b. visit a Arcanum web site . or c. buy the Strategy Guide . it be unfortunate that a game so fun and well think out would place its manual on its lowest priority . all in all this game be a very exciting and unique game that will be a sure fire nominee for game of the year . if you be a fan of Baldur 's gate and Fallout 1 & 2 this just may be the game for you . I do however suggest that when purchase the game you also purchase the strategy guide . it be very well write and contain a complete guide to all of the character and weapon you will run across .