I realize that this kinda defeats the point, but...

[prator]

Thanks for your help, everyone.

My trepidation is just about gone now, due to the large amounts of light in my room, the raised gamma settings in the game, the absence of music, and this:
http://www.frictionalgames.com/forum/sho...hp?tid=860

Now that I can actually use the hammer to kill things, life is looking up! I have slain three hounds already today! You'd be amazed how much a little wanton slaughter can improve your mood. I can't wait to try out my new pickaxe!

Yeah, that's right! Suck steel, *****S! Wham! Pow!

...I may be playing the wrong kind of game.