Gameplay:
Fallout 3 takes place in the eastern United States after a devastating nuclear apocalypse in the distant future. You take the role of a teenager in the post-apocalyptic Fallout universe with many role-playing aspects. For one, the game employs a full leveling system which maxes out at level 20 as well as upgradable attributes and skill sets. Fallout 3 does a great job of customization and it truly shines in the diversity of options. The role-playing aspects are also very well-done and the game features dynamic personal encounters and quest systems. Unfortunately, the combat and interaction itself is severely lacking due to running on the already unpolished and several year old The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion engine. During combat, most of the time you will rely on VATS, which allows you to pause time and at the expense of action points pinpoint precise locations to attack the enemy. At first it’s a fun system but after only a couple hours it gets very stale and the worst part is that you absolutely rely on it. With that said, the experience is a great first-person role-playing experience with a plethora of options and experiences to be had.
Controls:
The movement itself is very responsive and includes jumping and ducking options. Unfortunately, the combat has some serious coherency issues and shooting a gun at something feels more like just clicking on it. Weapon response, animation and presentation is lacking and during the longer dungeon portions of the game, Fallout 3 begins to feel like a first-person shooter in beta. Also, the menu system which includes all character information and inventory is hard to navigate.
Graphics:
Since the game is set in a post-apocalyptic world, it is understandable that everything is in ruins. However, the entire game features the same palette and textures over and over again. For the most part, everything including the cities and tunnels looks like trash has been rubbed against it, and the textures aren’t at a very high resolution. The presentation itself is well-executed and the character models and animations help to make the game look like the quality Bethesda game it should be.
Sound:
Probably one of the best facets of the game is the voice-acting, which is nothing to scoff at. The game also features 3 radio stations which along with the music in general really fit the setting of the game. The sound effects are pretty basic but are definitely accurate and fitting.
Replay Value:
Fallout 3 is a game that takes many hours to complete, but that’s not the strength of the value. Most of your time will be spent doing side missions and quests scattered throughout the game’s huge universe. One of the most interesting facts is that the game has a karma system which allows you to play the game as good, evil or neutral, and all 3 make the game a very different experience. Also, with standard trophies, Fallout 3 has an immense amount of replay value.
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Rating:
Story: 9.0
Gameplay: 8.0
Graphics: 8.0
Controls: 8.5
Sound: 9.0
Replay Value: 10.0
Overall: 8.6
Own, Rent, Avoid:
Rent: You will either love it or hate it. If you can get over the rough gameplay and rotten post-apocalyptic areas then Fallout 3 is an immersive and deep experience that lasts for months.
Last Thoughts:
Fallout 3 is a remarkable achievement in terms of depth and sheer size. However, the lack of solid gameplay, bad visuals and redundant environments make it a game that is both loved and non-enjoyable by many.
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Written By
Jonathan Leack
5/15//2009
