More than 25 years ago, the first post-nuclear world of the legendary Fallout franchise emerged from its shelter, full of memorable characters, irradiated monstrosities and impactful conversations that made their undeniable impact on the history of RPG games.
With the Fallout 4 GOTY Edition joining GOG not too long ago, as well as the celebration of the Fallout Day, we thought it would be a cool idea to revisit the immersive post-apocalyptic world of a franchise that has captivated gamers for decades. Especially that all its entries available on GOG are on discounts.
Let’s look at some of the most memorable and iconic moments that took place throughout Fallout, Fallout 2, Fallout 3, Fallout: New Vegas, and Fallout 4.
“War Never Changes” Monologue (Throughout the Series)
The famous “War never changes” monologue, narrated by Ron Perlman, has become a hallmark of the Fallout franchise. This timeless opening serves as a somber reminder of the series’ underlying theme: the cyclical nature of conflict and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity. Hearing these words at the start of each game is a poignant and memorable experience.
Fallout – Meeting the Master
Few of the video games villains are as well written as this leader of the super mutant army – The Master. As part of the main questline in the original 1997’s Fallout, our character, the Vault Dweller, must venture into the abandoned Vault-Tec prototype vault. After battling mutants all along the way we eventually come face to face with grotesque monstrosity that is the game’s primary antagonist. From his bizarre, flesh-twisted-with-computer appearance and multiple voices to revelation of his grim goal of creating a new race from humanity using Forced Evolutionary Virus this encounter remains the most memorable in the whole gaming history. Can’t wait to meet this fella again!
Fallout 2 – Beware of the cows…
Remember those deadly cows? Well, let us remind you. There’s a rare instance in Fallout 2 where we can encounter a herd of pissed off, exploding brahmin. At first glance, they seem like your typical mutated bovine grazing their barren pastures. That is until they all start running towards our character, The Chosen One, and detonating around us. If we were at a low level it meant certain doom at the hands (or rather hooves) of a very unexpected foe. Fun, surprising, kinda scary but most of all – iconic. This random skirmish is truly the essence of the Fallout series.
Fallout 3 – First step into the Capital Wasteland and Blowing up Megaton
Come on… this has to be on that list. After exploring the amazing, post-apocalyptic worlds of the first two entries in the series, the time has come to finally see its nuclear beauty in 3D. And the third game narrative prepares as perfectly for this moment. After we start quite literally by being born, we then get acquainted with the comforts of Vault 101. From first steps as a baby, to school tests, to our tenth birthday party in the Vault’s cafeteria and shooting roaches, to taking the G.O.A.T exam and getting bullied by Tunnel Snakes. And it all comes down to this one, iconic and beautiful moment – coming out of the Vault, leaving underground life behind and embarking on an adventure into the vast, unknown world while still struggling to adjust to the sunlight. It’s perfect, really.
Yeah, we had to give two entries for Fallout 3. It’s probably the most known, talked about and recognisable quest from all of the series. While it needs no introduction we are always happy to reminisce about this very dark but legendary moment. Soon after emerging from Vault 101 we come across Megaton, a small, shanty town built around a dormant nuclear bomb, which is probably not the most ideal place to build a settlement. After some time we run into a bloke who thinks Megaton’s an eye-sore and wants it removed. We are left with a choice to disarm the nuke, saving the town or turning Megaton into a Mega-hole. Choosing the latter of course costs us a hefty -1000 karma points but it can be argued that the view of the explosion is totally worth it.
Fallout: New Vegas – The Great Journey
The finale of Come Fly With Me quest in Fallout: New Vegas. Absolutely bizarre, unique and beautiful moment between Courier and a group of bold and inspired ghouls on a mission. At the REPCONN test site our character meets ghoul Jason Bright who is the leader of a religious faction known as Bright Brotherhood. Their main goal? To complete The Great Journey – launching themselves in a space vessel and traveling to a new world in the hope of finding a better future beyond Earth. Jason’s speech, the view, the music – everything there is just iconic.
Fallout 4 – The Museum of Witchcraft
In Fallout 4, the Museum of Witchcraft is a masterclass in building suspense and tension. As you explore this eerie location, you gradually uncover the truth about what lurks within. The payoff, when you finally encounter the horrific creature known as the Deathclaw, is a heart-pounding and unforgettable experience. The sense of dread and anticipation as you inch closer to the creature’s lair is palpable.
Fallout 4 – The Glowing Sea
The Glowing Sea is a desolate, irradiated wasteland in Fallout 4. A stark reminder of the devastation caused by nuclear war. This area is home to some of the most dangerous creatures in the game, including the formidable Glowing Deathclaw. Navigating this eerie landscape, with its greenish glow and crumbling buildings, is a haunting experience that showcases the game’s atmosphere and challenges.
Of course, these are just the examples, as the whole series is brimming with moments that left an indelible mark on the world of gaming and still pop in our heads from time to time. From the stark beauty of emerging from a vault to the intense battles and moral dilemmas, Fallout never fails to amaze us, no matter if it’s the first or 10th playthrough, or which entry we’re playing.
But words can only do so much justice. Grab these iconic games and see for yourself!