You overlook the dated graphics, and you are left with one hell of an entertaining game.
It sort of looks like it is held together with duct tape and string but that just seems to add to its charm. Underneath the flawed exterior you have a simply engrosing story with some really well put together scenes, interesting characters and one down on his luck PI.
You play Tex Murphey, a down on his luck Private Investigator whos idea of a full breakfast includes a ciggy and a couple shots of burbon. His self depricating humor is just right and really makes you want to continue playing just to hear what he is going to say next. You live in a world ravaged by nuclear fallout., filled with mutants and plenty of intriuge.
It starts you off easily by trying to solve a simple pawn shop break in, and then the story really picks up from there. You will find yourself digging through dumpsters, interviewing people, trying to piece together a terrific mystery.
The game is broken down into 2 types, a fully 3d environment, where you can look around and under things. Then a 2d camera view where you interogate people giveing you multiple questioning options. Both serve there purpose although I have no idea why they didnt go for the typical WASD FPS interface for the free roaming bits. The interface is a bit cumbersome but you get used to it.
The acting a bit spotty but in some places it really shines. In some cases you would swear you were watching an actual hollywood movie. Oh and did I mention that it is also voiced by James Earl Jones???!??!? James Earl freakin' Jones for crying out loud! If there is a better narrator out there I would like to see it. When he starts quoting edger alan poe before it really sets the mood.
Such charm and wit in a game is rare to find, but this game has it in spades. The writing as a very Tim Shaeferish quality to it. The strange thing is that every 3 years or so I will pull this game out and play it again. Even though getting it to work under a new version of windows is a bit like trying to shoehorn your foot into a pair of shoes you had in elementary school. It is like a good book that you happen to play.
If you can find a copy on ebay or borrow it from a friend you could find yourself pleasetly suprised and against all apperent odds actually having fun. And remember...
Danger is like jello, theres always room for more.