The Fallout series is one of the most popular and enduring video game franchises in history. With its unique blend of role-playing, exploration, and combat elements, it has captured the imagination of gamers around the world.
1976: The Birth of Fallout
The story of Fallout begins in 1976 when game designer Al Hilliwel created the first version of the game, which was originally called “Vault Dweller.” It was designed to be played on an Apple II computer and was intended as a text-based adventure game. Hilliwel was inspired by the classic post-apocalyptic novel “A Canticle for Leibowitz” and wanted to create a world where players would have to navigate through a harsh, desolate landscape in order to survive.
1980: Fallout 2 and the Expansion of the World
In 1980, Hilliwel released Fallout 2, which greatly expanded on the world he had created for the first game. It introduced new characters, locations, and quests, making it a much larger and more immersive experience than its predecessor. The game was well-received and helped to establish Fallout as a successful and popular franchise.
1988: Fallout 3 and the Introduction of Turn-Based Combat
In 1988, Fallout 3 was released, introducing turn-based combat to the series for the first time. This new gameplay mechanic proved to be very popular with players, who enjoyed being able to take their time and strategize before making their moves. Fallout 3 also introduced a number of other new features, including crafting and the ability to barter with NPCs.
1995: Fallout 4 and the Return to Post-Apocalyptic Adventure
In 1995, Bethesda Softworks acquired the rights to the Fallout franchise from Interplay Entertainment and released Fallout 4, which was set in a new location known as Vault 76. The game was a critical and commercial success, with many praising its engaging storyline and immersive gameplay. It also introduced a number of new mechanics, such as the ability to craft weapons and build settlements.
1999: Fallout 2 and the Introduction of VATS
In 1999, Interplay Entertainment released Fallout 2, which was widely regarded as one of the best video games of all time. It introduced a new gameplay mechanic called VATS (Vault-Tec Assault/Trauma System), which allowed players to slow down time and aim their attacks with greater precision. This mechanic proved to be very popular with players and is still used in the Fallout series today.
2001: Fallout 3 and the Expansion of the World
In 2001, Interplay Entertainment released Fallout 3, which took place in the same world as Fallout 2 but was set many years later. The game introduced a number of new features, such as the ability to craft weapons and the addition of a morality system that allowed players to choose how they wanted their character to behave. It also greatly expanded on the world of Fallout, introducing new locations and characters for players to explore.
2008: Fallout 4 and the Return to Vault Dweller
In 2008, Bethesda Softworks released Fallout 4, which was set in a new location known as Vault 76 and introduced a number of new mechanics, such as the ability to build settlements and craft weapons. The game was a critical and commercial success, with many praising its engaging storyline and immersive gameplay. It also marked a return to the Vault Dweller name for the Fallout series.
2015: Fallout 4 and the Introduction of Mods
In 2015, Bethesda Softworks released Fallout 4 with mod support, allowing players to create their own content and share it with others.