quote:
Originally posted by Meanal:
It does affect abbilitys because a half-orc can have 19 strength and 19 constitution but an elf can have 19 dexterity
You're not paying attention to what I wrote:
Being an elf, dwarf, halfling, etc, doesn't give you access to special areas, weaponry or abilities...
"Access" is the key word. In other words, you don't get access to abilities as an elf that you would otherwise lack as a dwarf, and vice versa. Having the possibility of a 19 DEX, for example, doesn't mean you get a skill of Hide Behind Objects that makes you invisible without really trying. With minor distinctions for maxxing out a few stats, all races are essentially identical for purposes of gameplay.
Note that in Arcanum, race affects the size of armor (large, normal, small) that you can wear. It also makes it easier or harder to pick up quests and get information when dealing with other races that have a history of liking or disliking yours.