More of a skirmish game with a moderate amount of campaign tools. But that is still a misnomer, in that it does a great job of relegating combat to a role as a means to an end rather than the main focus. It really is an adventure game as opposed to a skirmish game. IMHO
Spot-on analysis, Major. I have always referred to Pulp Alley as an
adventure/skirmish game.
Our scenarios encourage story-telling by focusing on the various plot points that the characters must capture/complete in a short amount of time.
Although your Combat skills will often be very helpful in securing the area around a plot point, you'll almost always need to use an Action skill to finish the job. This balance between fighting, perils and thinking can really keep players on their toes.
When you create a character and a league you'll want to keep this balance in mind. For example, if I make a character that is purely focused on fighting, then I know they are going to have a harder time with perils and plot points and I'll try to use them appropriately during a scenario.
HAVE FUN