Games are rarely perfect, as they are all faced with the barrier of advancing technology. Long story short, the interface of this game shows its age. Compared to the smooth, user-friendly control schemes of today's console systems, Fallout is worlds behind. I worry that most people that had fun with the new "Fallout 3" will never give Fallout a chance because of the "bad graphics" and tough to learn controls.
Here is my plea: I have been playing video games for probably 20 years, and in all that time, there are very few games that I have been proud to own, and have treasured so much that in those years I have gone back over and over again. I'd say the list has about 4 games on it: XCom, Doom, Command & Conquer, and Fallout.
Please, play Fallout. Get to know it, love it, you'll never forget it.