Oh yeah, I so totally agree that the game is very reminiscent of a 'larger scale Sanitarium'. That was one of the first thoughts I had when booting up the game.
I think the fact that the game isn't hugely focused on combat is the main draw in factor for me. I've tried to play numerous RPGs in the past but I've never really stuck to them - mainly for the simple fact that I'm not a huge combat nut. (I'm the Gandhi of the gaming world per se)
But yeah, I'm going to try really hard and stick with this game. The story seems absolutely brilliant and I'm a sucker for anything post-Apocalyptic looking. Which reminds me, I really oughta give Fallout another go too.