I just play the game. If I get stuck, I usually forget that the instruction manual even exists. =.=" GameFAQS is good enough for me, and the good thing is I don't even need to use that site too much.

Depends, really. If I'm playing a sequel that more or less uses the same controls and rules as its predecessor, the manual isn't really required. But I always skim through the first few pages when opening a new game, but I'm careful to avoid any possible spoilers. Twilight Princess is one example, as the opening summary pretty much spoils the first two hours.

And of course there's MGS2. Stupid manual decided to spell out the big surprise.

I always look force myself to read the manual from start to finish so that I don't confuse myself when I find that certain buttons do certain things, despite knowing that almost every game nowadays has an in-game beginning tutorial. Mostly for RPGs since random system differences are things I have to know before playing (eg. scan system in WA3). If not for an rpg, then just for a point of reference (eg. "oh yeah I remember this being briefly mentioned in the manual, let's look it up"). It's force of habit at this point and I don't intend to change that. The pictures are usually pretty enough (the colour ones of course) anyways.

Some manuals are GOLDEN. Any Warioware manual has my eternal <3 (come on, free stickers!?!? Win.)

I usually don't bother with instruction booklets. If they are colour I'll leaf through it for artwork. If it's black and white I'll set it down and forget its existence. Playing games my entire life has given me enough experience to pick up new games rather quickly. My favourite page is the warning page. Danger, you will suffer repeated epileptic fits if you play this game. Please seek your family physician. Thank you. Enjoy.

But yeah, I play first.

I swear that the PAL NZ manual didn't spoil it, but then again I was already spoiled by flicking thru mags while waiting for the local release. Biggest wtf ever still. And because of this, I'm so sure that MGS Snake ain't old (has this already been confirmed/disputed?)

In reply to the topic, yes I do read the manuals, but usually only once I've finished the game. Same deal with reviews where I only catch glimpses of scores to whet my appetite. You never know which ones will spoil it for you. (Cursed MGS2 multi-page-unmissable-spoiler-ridden-preview-scoop!)