Which Fallout Game Should I Play First

‘Fallout 3 is a great place to start if you’re asking which Fallout game should i play first, as it offers a solid introduction to the series’ core gameplay and setting.’

Stepping into the post-apocalyptic world of Fallout for the first time is thrilling, but also, a bit daunting. With so many titles, it’s natural to wonder which fallout game should i play first? This question pops up often for newcomers.

Each game presents its own unique experience within the wasteland. Picking the right one to begin your journey is important. We’ll help guide you towards a smooth entrance into this expansive series.

Which Fallout Game Should I Play First?

Choosing your first adventure into the post-apocalyptic world of Fallout can feel like a daunting task. With so many entries, it’s easy to wonder where to even begin. Don’t worry; we’re here to guide you! This isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, because each Fallout game brings something unique to the table. We’ll explore the key differences and help you figure out which wasteland journey is right for you to start with.

Understanding the Fallout Universe

Before diving into specific games, it’s good to have a basic understanding of the Fallout world. The series is set in a retro-futuristic, alternate history timeline where a nuclear war in 2077 devastated the planet. Survivors emerged from underground vaults, or were already trying to live in the ruins of the old world, facing mutated creatures, raiders, and the challenges of rebuilding society. It’s a blend of sci-fi, post-apocalyptic survival, and a heavy dose of dark humor. The core game play revolves around exploration, combat, character building, and making choices that directly affect the story and the world around you.

Fallout 3: A Solid Starting Point

Many people recommend Fallout 3 as an excellent first game. Released in 2008, it was a game-changer, bringing the Fallout series into the 3D world and offering a vast, explorable environment. Let’s break down why this might be the right choice for you:

Pros of Starting with Fallout 3:

• Relatively Simple Mechanics: Compared to later titles, Fallout 3’s systems are easier to grasp. Things like the skills, perks and combat are more straightforward, so you won’t feel overwhelmed when starting out.
• A Classic Fallout Story: You begin as a vault dweller, searching for your missing father in the ruins of Washington D.C. This compelling story does a fantastic job of introducing the lore and themes of the Fallout universe.
• Good Introduction to the Core Gameplay: You’ll quickly become familiar with the V.A.T.S. combat system (allowing you to target specific body parts), exploration mechanics, and how to use your Pip-Boy, which is your in-game menu and computer.
• Iconic Locations and Characters: Fallout 3 has some memorable locations and characters that have become synonymous with the series, such as the town of Megaton and radio host Three Dog.
• Widely Available: Fallout 3 is readily available on various platforms, including PC, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, and can be easily played on more recent systems via backwards compatibility.

Cons of Starting with Fallout 3:

• A Bit Dated: Graphically, Fallout 3 shows its age. If you’re used to modern games with high-fidelity graphics, it might take some time to adjust.
• Clunky Combat: The gunplay isn’t as refined as in later titles, so expect some slightly stiff aiming.
• Fewer Customization Options: Character creation and customization are less extensive than in newer Fallout games.
• Less Polish: As an older title, you may encounter occasional bugs or glitches.

Fallout: New Vegas: A Deep Dive into Role-Playing

Fallout: New Vegas, developed by Obsidian Entertainment, is a beloved entry often praised for its intricate story and RPG mechanics. While it shares some gameplay elements with Fallout 3, it has a much different feel and focus.

Pros of Starting with Fallout: New Vegas:

• A Rich and Complex Narrative: New Vegas offers a more intricate storyline with multiple factions vying for control of the Mojave Wasteland. Your choices and actions have a significant impact on the world and how the story unfolds, giving lots of replay value.
• Deeper Character Customization: New Vegas has a more complex character creation system with more skills and perks that can drastically affect how you play.
• Improved Role-Playing: The game puts a heavy emphasis on role-playing. Your choices have consequences, shaping not just the story but also your character’s reputation.
• Engaging Factions: The different factions (the NCR, Legion, and Mr. House) are compelling, each with their own motivations and values. Choosing which faction to align with becomes a very important element of gameplay.
• A Unique Setting: The Mojave Desert environment of New Vegas offers a distinct atmosphere, different from the urban setting of Fallout 3.

Cons of Starting with Fallout: New Vegas:

• Can Be Overwhelming: With its more complex systems, New Vegas can feel overwhelming for a newcomer to the series. The sheer amount of choices and gameplay elements may feel intimidating.
• Dated Graphics: Similar to Fallout 3, New Vegas is an older game and its graphics may not appeal to those looking for modern visuals.
• Can Be Buggy: New Vegas is infamous for bugs and glitches, some of which can be game-breaking. However, many fan-made patches and mods are available to fix most issues.
• Story-Driven: The game is less of a “explore at your own pace” experience than Fallout 3. The focus on the narrative might be a bit less appealing if you’re looking for a purely sand-box experience.

Fallout 4: Modern and Accessible

Fallout 4, released in 2015, brought a number of changes to the series, including improved graphics, settlement building, and a voiced protagonist. It’s often considered the most accessible and modern title in the franchise, making it a possible choice for newcomers.

Pros of Starting with Fallout 4:

• Improved Graphics and Gameplay: Fallout 4 has significantly better graphics than previous games, and combat feels much smoother. It’s much more modern, making it an easier transition for players accustomed to today’s standards.
• Accessible Mechanics: Fallout 4 simplifies some of the complex systems from previous games, making it more newcomer-friendly. The perk system is less daunting, and many of the quality of life changes are appreciated by most players.
• Settlement Building: The addition of settlement building is a new feature that lets you create and manage your own bases, adding a layer of strategy and customization. If you enjoy building and crafting this is a fantastic addition to the overall gameplay.
• Engaging Story: The storyline of Fallout 4 is compelling with a strong emphasis on your character’s journey to find their kidnapped son.
• Voice Acting: Having a voiced protagonist is also an advantage in terms of immersiveness, so it can feel more engaging, especially for new players to the Fallout franchise.

Cons of Starting with Fallout 4:

• Simplified RPG Elements: The changes to the skill and perk system and the removal of skills are controversial amongst many fans of the series. It may feel like your character is less customizable than in the earlier Fallout entries.
• Less Choice-Driven: Some players feel that the choices in Fallout 4 don’t have as much impact on the story as in Fallout: New Vegas.
• Focus on Building: While settlement building is a popular feature, it is a major part of Fallout 4’s gameplay, which can be annoying if you’re more focused on exploration and the main story.
• Performance Issues: Even on newer systems, Fallout 4 can have occasional performance issues, such as frame drops and graphical glitches.

Fallout 76: A Different Kind of Wasteland

Fallout 76 is the online multiplayer entry in the franchise. It’s quite different from the single-player games, and may not be the best place for newcomers to the series.

Pros of Starting with Fallout 76:

• Multiplayer Experience: If you enjoy playing with friends or other players, Fallout 76 offers a shared open world where you can team up, explore, and complete quests together.
• Large and Dynamic World: The world of Appalachia is huge and full of things to discover. The dynamic events and player interactions can make each play-through feel different.
• Ongoing Updates: Fallout 76 is continuously getting new content and updates. There is always new content to experience.
• Base Building: The C.A.M.P. system allows you to create and build bases anywhere in the game world, adding a unique building element into the traditional exploration formula.

Cons of Starting with Fallout 76:

• Very Different From Core Fallout Games: The emphasis on multiplayer makes it a different experience than the single-player games. It’s less focused on the narrative and more on surviving with others, which may not feel like a traditional Fallout experience.
• Can Be Overwhelming: With its many systems and online elements, it can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the Fallout universe and online games in general.
• Performance Issues and Bugs: The game has had a rocky past regarding bugs and glitches, and even though the game is much more polished now, you may experience a few technical issues.
• Less Story Focus: The story is often secondary to the multiplayer and exploration aspects. If you’re looking for a deep and impactful narrative experience, Fallout 76 may not be the best place to start.

The Classic 2D Fallout Games

There are also the original 2D isometric Fallout games: Fallout and Fallout 2. These games are incredibly rich in terms of lore, character choices, and storytelling. However, due to their age and very different gameplay style, they’re generally not recommended as a first game for newcomers unless you specifically have an interest in older style PC RPG’s.

Why the Classic Games Might Not Be Your First Choice:

• Very Different Gameplay: These games feature turn-based combat and an isometric perspective, which are very different from the 3D action-RPG style of the later games.
• Steep Learning Curve: The user interface and game mechanics are less intuitive, making them harder to get into if you’re used to modern games.
• Outdated Graphics: The graphics are very dated compared to newer games, which might be off-putting for some.
• Less Accessible: They are not as easily accessible as the newer games, and might require a bit of effort to get working on modern systems.

A Quick Comparison Table

Here’s a table to help you quickly compare the different games:

The best place to start really depends on what you’re looking for in your Fallout experience. Are you seeking a classic Fallout story, deep role-playing options, a more modern and accessible game, or a multiplayer experience? Consider what is more important to you, and use this guide to help you decide.

Ultimately, there is no single “right” answer when choosing your first Fallout game. Each game offers its own unique strengths and appeal to different types of players. If you want a more traditional experience, begin with Fallout 3 or New Vegas. If you’re looking for the most modern and accessible game to play, start with Fallout 4. If you want multiplayer, try Fallout 76. And if you have an affinity for old school RPG’s, play the original Fallout games.

Which Fallout Game You Should Play First

Final Thoughts

For a first experience, you must begin with Fallout 3 or New Vegas. They both offer great introductions to the post-apocalyptic world. Both are easily accessible.

Fallout 3 presents a devastated Washington D.C., while New Vegas has a unique western feel. These two titles are excellent choices for those deciding which fallout game should i play first. Choose based on preference of setting.