I find it interesting how some people don't like attributes because they generalize characters too much, yet they think stamina should replace all functions that attributes had.
By dumbing it down to 3 "attributes" we get even more generalized characters.
The key phrase in there is 'they think it should'
That doesn't mean it will nor do I think it should.
I'm thinking race will play a factor in determining movement speed and encumbrance, not sure how they would change though. I guess we'll just have to wait and see.
Edit:
@arwen
I don't see how some numbers on the stat screen make my characters unique, I get unique characters from gameplay and perks deliver that by giving me everything attributes can do and also abilities that attributes would have to deliver to every character that got whatever level would unlock it (assuming attribute could behave like perks). How is that more unique?
Sure you may sacrifice one dimension of your character in that they are less unique in the beginning but gain 10 dimensions in what they become is so much more unique than attributes could ever allow, and if you ask most people I daresay what their character becomes is more important than how it starts out.
Also characters can be completely different even using the same skills because there are different perks you can choose or you can pick a higher tier of a perk. So choosing a different perk makes for a different character, I would call that a consequence of your decision.. Do attributes allow such flexibility let's see.... Nope every character that uses the same skills always gets the same abilities. Do attributes have different consequences for leveling it let's see... Nope always the same.
So no attributes don't make a character unique, perks on the other hand do.
I understand it might be hard having learn to script in a different way now but you honestly can't expect it to always remain the same can you? And it's not really a good reason to deny an obviously superior system.