Choosing your first foray into the post-apocalyptic wasteland of Fallout can be daunting. With so many titles spanning various platforms and timelines, knowing where to begin your journey is a valid question. This guide will help you decide What Fallout Game Should I Play First, taking into account your gaming preferences and what each game offers.
Navigating the Wasteland: A Fallout Beginner’s Guide
Fallout games blend role-playing, action, and exploration in a unique and immersive world. Deciding what Fallout game should i play first depends on a few factors, including your preferred gameplay style and whether you prioritize story or open-world freedom. This guide will break down each main entry in the series, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make the best choice.
Fallout: A Blast from the Past (1997) & Fallout 2: A Post-Nuclear Renaissance (1998)
These isometric RPGs laid the groundwork for the franchise. They’re known for their complex storylines, deep character customization, and turn-based combat. While dated visually, they offer a rich narrative experience, particularly for those who enjoy classic RPGs. However, newer players might find the older interface and gameplay mechanics challenging.
Fallout 3: A New Hope in the Capital Wasteland (2008)
Fallout 3 marked the series’ transition to a first/third-person perspective and real-time combat. Exploring the ravaged Washington D.C. and making moral choices that shape the story is a core part of the experience. Its open-world gameplay, engaging storyline, and VATS system, which allows for tactical slow-motion targeting, make it an excellent entry point.
Exploring the Capital Wasteland in Fallout 3
Fallout: New Vegas: Sin City in the Mojave (2010)
Developed by Obsidian Entertainment, New Vegas returned to the more traditional RPG elements of the first two games, while retaining the modern gameplay of Fallout 3. Its intricate story, compelling factions, and player-driven narrative offer a highly replayable experience. The Mojave Wasteland, while smaller than Fallout 3’s, is arguably more densely packed with content and interesting characters.
Fallout 4: Building a New Future in the Commonwealth (2015)
Fallout 4 introduced the settlement building mechanic, allowing you to construct and manage your own communities in the post-apocalyptic Boston area. It streamlined the RPG elements, focusing more on action and exploration. While its story might be considered less impactful than previous entries, the settlement building and crafting systems provide a unique layer of gameplay.
Building a Settlement in the Commonwealth in Fallout 4
Fallout 76: Online Survival in Appalachia (2018)
Fallout 76 took the series online, allowing players to explore and survive together in post-apocalyptic West Virginia. This was a significant departure from the single-player focus of previous games. While it had a rocky launch, subsequent updates have improved the game considerably, adding more story content and features. However, its online-only nature might not appeal to everyone.
Which Fallout Should You Play First?
So, what fallout game should i play first? Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
- For the Story-Focused RPG Fan: Fallout: New Vegas offers a deep narrative experience with significant player agency.
- For the Open-World Explorer: Fallout 3 provides a vast wasteland to explore with a compelling main quest.
- For the Builder and Crafter: Fallout 4’s settlement system offers a unique gameplay loop alongside the core Fallout experience.
- For the Retro Gamer: If you enjoy classic RPGs, Fallout and Fallout 2 are worth exploring, but be prepared for older mechanics.
- For the Online Socializer: Fallout 76 provides a multiplayer experience in the Fallout universe.
Beyond the Wasteland: Exploring the Fallout Universe
The Fallout universe extends beyond the main games, encompassing spin-offs, novels, and a dedicated community. Exploring these supplementary materials can enrich your experience and deepen your understanding of the lore.
FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Fallout series:
- Do I need to play the Fallout games in order? No, each game can be enjoyed independently.
- Which Fallout game has the best story? Many consider New Vegas to have the most nuanced and engaging story.
- Is Fallout 76 worth playing now? Yes, the game has improved significantly since launch, though its always-online nature remains a factor.
- Which Fallout game is the easiest to start with? Fallout 3 or Fallout 4 are generally considered the most accessible entry points.
- Are there any Fallout games on mobile? Yes, Fallout Shelter is a mobile base-building game.
- What is the VATS system? VATS (Vault-Tec Assisted Targeting System) is a tactical combat system that lets you slow down time and target specific body parts of enemies.
- What are the factions in Fallout? Different Fallout games have different factions, groups with varying ideologies and goals that the player can interact with and join.
Conclusion: Embarking on Your Fallout Adventure
Ultimately, the best Fallout game to start with depends on your personal preferences. Each title offers a unique experience within the post-apocalyptic world. Hopefully, this guide has helped you determine what Fallout game should i play first and begin your journey into the wasteland! Share this guide with other aspiring wasteland wanderers, and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
