How does the first Act contribute to Albee's characterisation of the play?

At the start, we become aware of the mechanizations behind George and Martha's marriage. Martha seems to be overly critical, nagging, and extremely unhappy. George, on the other hand, simply acts as if he isn't there. He ignores Martha, he humors her.... then he baits her. We have a married couple going through the motions.... baiting, recanting, challenging and retreating. They're playing a game that isn't a game because it isn't fun.... or is it?