Let me make this simple: buy Fallout. For $6 it is a steal and a shame to not do so. It is a jewel in a sea of mediocre junk and is part of the definition of a "good old game". The story is unmatched by many of its contemporaries and even today's games. Its gameplay mechanics are innovative and unparalleled. Simply put: you will find yourself shocked every time you look at the clock and realize the hours that have gone by.
This is a game that you play any way you want. There are no artificial restraints; just you and the game. It is entirely possible to help out a town or completely massacre it. Or help out the town in question and then completely massacre everybody. It is a game full of choices and consequences that will follow you every second of game time. It is what makes Fallout just ever more special and great.
The atmosphere and world is wonderfully made, regardless of its outdated textures. The voice acting and dialog are unmatched and the game's value is killer.
Now it is not all pretty. The game is plagued by many, many bugs, some since the game was first released. Many of these bugs affect gameplay adversely (or at least in my case) and become extremely annoying. Also, the gameplay isn't recommended for all. It is turn-based and tactical and does not involve many of the lazy aspects of today's games. In fact, the entire game is slow and difficult and not recommended for those that get frustrated easily or bored when not enough theatrics take place.