A beginner will probably want to keep the manual close by but still shouldn't have a problem picking up the game quickly. Various screens are accessible by clearly marked buttons and skill management is simplified by cleverly combined menus. Game play is pretty simple point and click with buttons on the interface to choose special actions such as lock picking. You highlight an item or person and you get a description in the interface window and a reaction indicator if a person or creature is highlighted. The degree of information you get depends on the level of your perception and dialogue options are very dependent on intelligence and charisma.
Reactions can change depending on past behavior.
In short, Arcanum looks set to live up to the hype and anticipation. Especially when you add the multiplayer mode, which amounts to mini-games for groups rather than the full single player game. For more info you can check out the official Arcanum FAQ at Sierra's Official Site . All rights reserved.