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Fallout Community Q&A Arrives

 

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As many of you know, we announced a community Q&A for Fallout 3 a couple of weeks ago. Since Blinzler was so eager to see a community Q&A, I put him in charge of compiling questions that YOU wanted to know about. Not an easy task, considering he (with the help of some folks he selected) had to filter through pages of suggestions in the forums, as well as look at stuff I forwarded from our inbox, and of course, this blog. Did I mention he did all of this while living through a hurricane? Big props to Blinzler!

So head on over to our Fallout forums and take a look at the answers that Todd came up with. Here’s a sample:

14. You have talked a lot about choices and consequences in the quest design. Are you aiming for immediate feedback, or long term (and possibly unforeseeable) consequences? In addition to moral choices, will different characters be able to tackle tasks using their different skill sets? [GhanBuriG]

It’s a bit of both, overall I think the player needs something immediate, or they don’t know if they actually accomplished anything, or felt what they just did had any meaning whatsoever. The longer term stuff is great to surprise the player with, whether it’s positive or negative, but if it’s a surprise, you need to be careful, because that can be frustrating, so you give the player another route, or simply treat the consequence as a flavor thing, and not a game-changing thing.

In regards to using different skills, most definitely, yes. We’re really pushing on that, and I think that’s the crux of the game - what skills you use, so each quest or goal of the player’s can be accomplished in different ways using different skills. Even in dialogue we’re using a lot of different skills, depending on who you’re talking to So if you’re talking to a scientist, your Science skill may give you an extra dialogue option.

Posted by gstaff on Friday, September 14th, 2007 at 3:59 pm.

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109 Responses to “Fallout Community Q&A Arrives”

Thanks Todd & Gstaff for the opportunity to clear up some questions that are important to the community.
Hope we get a chance to repeat this.

@Todd:
I’m sorry, but I don’t share your opinion regarding the descriptive text (textbox) at all. I think they are in integral part of Fallout and add great amounts to the atmosphere of the games. I’m really going to miss them.

Left by Blinzler on September 14th, 2007

IF the FALLOUT4 to be more funny?

Left by shangwei on September 15th, 2007

What are the system requirements? Will ‘casual’ gamers be able to play or will there be high-set requirements? What OS will it run on? Strictly Vista or XP too?

Left by Lonewolf on September 15th, 2007

No chance we’ll know system specs until we’re much further along in the process.

Left by Pete on September 15th, 2007

Will there be VEHICLES. If so, a variety or limited?

Left by Robert @ Vancouver Film School on September 16th, 2007

Who is creating music in game? Much depends on it in game !!!

Left by Alen on September 16th, 2007

How expansive are you planning the game to be? Story-wise.

Left by Deathbunbun on September 16th, 2007

No drivable vehicles, that has been established.

BTW the Vancouver Film School film with the Power Armor is incredibly good, congrats.

Left by briosa on September 16th, 2007

Great stuff, I can’t wait for this game to be finished. I’m a huge Fallout fan (I’ve beaten 1 and 2 at least five times each) and from what I’ve seen so far I think the Bethesda guys are going to do a great job. Sure it isn’t a 3rd person isometric view but it seems like they understand that the setting, attention to detail and storyline is what really made Fallout 1&2 such good games.

Left by Hobo on September 16th, 2007

I have to say; the day I saw the headlines on gaming magazines stating that my wet dream of many years was going to come to an end I could not help smiling. I stood in the magazine shop on my way to work grinning like a 14 yearold who just discovered boobs. Only I am 28 and have just discovered that Fallout 3 is on it’s way.

After I read the article I was a bit worried however - would you guys screw up the good mood and the raw feeling that is Fallout? … Not wanting to let Fallout 3 be my first Bethesda experience I purchased Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion to get a grip of the systems that would be merging (as I already know - and absolutely love - the Fallout universe in and out).

80ish hours into Oblivion I have to say that I am even more excited about Fallout 3 now - I think as long as the original mood and feeling of Fallout is kept alive the game will be fantastic.

I can’t wait. :)

Left by Daimyo on September 18th, 2007

roughly how is team work going to feature, if at all. i really liked that aspect of the last two but 100hours into oblivion i still cant’ really get to grips with that idea mixed in the with a servival sort of atmosphere.

Left by DrkStar on September 18th, 2007

I’ve posted this at the other site, but I doubt that the people who are responsible for the game actually read it, my guess is that only people policing the site read the posts (the forum/discussion board). That being said, I’m interested in the weapons of the game. Will we get a ton of weapons and items which will be overall useless so that we end up using only a few (such as pulse,gause rifles in F2), and that the only thing to differintiate them from ech other is in the amount of damage they do. Or, as I hope, but as of yet have NEVER seen in any game, are weapons which stun/take away AP, cause concussions, etc. I am looking forward to at least a “yes or no”.

Left by jacksam on September 19th, 2007

what can you say about Mac OS support?

Left by nikita closer on September 19th, 2007

fallout is associated with the best time of my life playing this game. it was a really astonishing game that was something completely brand new. not like any other. i’m a huge fan of the game. i played it a lot of times completing the game in many ways.

and my question wud be:

back then, in the first releases, you could kill someone on the sly and leave the place just like that. but that was either a person who no one cared about or something else. if it were a person of the gang you could get in trouble (depending on how developed you were of course:-)

or you would safely leave the place if you killed someone quietly with a knife or something of that kind.

but what i’m leading up to is, will there be a special device attached to the gun, thus allowing the gun to fire noiselessly, in fallout 3?

Left by eddie on September 19th, 2007

i still don’t quite understand whether fallout 3 combat system will be real life or turn-based.

i prefer turn based better. that what i adored about fallout 1 and 2 back then, it was just unique.

if you did real time, then you screwed it all up. that’s my opinion.

what about the textbox? hell, if there is no any, i will be pretty pissed off.

that’s what made fallout 1 and 2 unique, amongst many other cool things.

Left by eddie on September 19th, 2007

ok so I just wondering why you have decided not to have any drugs and alcohol in the game, as you had in the previous to.

Left by DMA on September 20th, 2007

i still don’t quite understand whether fallout 3 combat system will be real life or turn-based.

From the Official fan Interview, in the words of Todd Howard:

Probably better if I give you a closer look at how we approach it and view VATS. First, I don’t see it as an either-or thing. VATS is meant to be used with real-time, it’s not one or the other – they should feel like they go together. I don’t want the fans confused that this is turn-based, because it’s not. It’s a glorified aimed-shot mode, and a pretty glorious one at that.

Also:

why you have decided not to have any drugs and alcohol in the game,

From the same place:

It’s about the same as the previous games, there are various drugs, and each as its own positive effects and side-effects if you get addicted to them.

Hope this helped in clarifying things.

Left by briosa on September 20th, 2007

First, I want to say “thanks from the bottom of my heart” to Bethesda for picking up Fallout 3. I hope your reap big rewards and cash for your time and attention to continuing a cult classic. I’m sure you’ll figure out a way to keep the fans happy and bring in new fans.

Like a lot of people who read/post, I can remember my soul opening the first time I played through my first copy of Fallout. The music, the genre flair, the bloody deaths, compelling story… It was like an addiction to Jet.

I’m excited to try VATS but hope you don’t deviate too far from turn-based. The turn-based really gave me the feeling of “role” control. I would develop a “sniper” (combo ability and skills) and every chance I got was a head shot for xtra dmg.

And, don’t discount some of the “ground breaking” aspects of the time for Fallout 1 & 2 and FO:BoS. Those will still suck us in regardless of the aspects being “old” by now.

One thing you can’t screw up is the humor. Please please please riddle it with the humor that makes it so fresh. It was like the oxygen they pump into the casinos in Vegas. Stimulating and a cornerstone of the mood.

GL, Bethesda. I hope it’s a better blow-out sleeper like DR and can capture the mood like BioShock. You have the opportunity. Don’t blow it!

Left by Flybyte on September 20th, 2007

So we have no drugs, no hookers, no text box.

Why buy the license for a game like Fallout and try produce a follow on that dosnt resemble the original at all ? its crazy.

Fallout was one of my favorite games ever.

I think given what I have heard I might have to give it a miss this time around.

John.

Left by John on September 20th, 2007

i’m waiting for fallout 3.

but why make it 3d?

it was so good having it 2d, it was just perfect it’s classic.

why make it real time, turn-based system is what made fallout 1 and 2 unique.

look guys, no offense implied, but fallout is not just a beautiful picture to stare at. i know you try to keep up with the newest technologies to make it real time, but why the heck not leave just like that, i.e, turn-based? that’s what it unique, nothing can convince me of the reverse.

just why did you do that?

Left by eddie on September 20th, 2007

DMA,

I’m pretty sure Todd addressed the drug issue, stating it would be around the same as previous Fallout titles.

Left by Gstaff on September 21st, 2007

John read my post above please, drugs and addiction are on.

I don’t know about hookers, but text boxes are indeed out, a shame.

Left by briosa on September 21st, 2007

for all the above posts are’nt we gettin a lil off q and a? but if its going there: i prefer turn based myself. i wish a lot of the modern stratergy games gave you the option to switch to turn based play so that you can consider your moves and not just hecticly click and win because you know the hot keys. in relation to fo3 i think that the pause and aim/ think oportunity that the VATS system is gunna be a realy good compramise that actualy adds more… intelect to the fast first person gun action (note not fps action, hehehe)

but again, i think it realy hinges on your comunication with team mates. that is something very hard to pull off in a real time game. … ? ^_^

Left by DrkStar on September 21st, 2007

I was just wondering since I did not get to see E3 this year, and im pretty disapointed in myself, I was wondering will the new Fallout 3 be in any relation to Fallout 1 and 2. What I am trying to ask basicly is will it be a continuation of the older two?
They were alwsome!!!!

Left by Oblivion4tkj on September 21st, 2007

Well when it comes to turnbased or not Fallout: Tactics solved it pretty well; from realtime to turnbased by the touch of a button - perfect for everyone - all the other aspects of FT aside though, hehe :)

Left by Daimyo on September 21st, 2007

”Well when it comes to turnbased or not Fallout: Tactics solved it pretty well; from realtime to turnbased by the touch of a button - perfect for everyone - all the other aspects of FT aside though, hehe :)” - true and very true but how can you translate that into 3D? and thinking about it you can’t realy make another top down fallout game without repition.

Left by DrkStar on September 22nd, 2007

Yeah well, I too preferred a lot the turned-based system, as well as 2d graphs. I’m just sorry it turned out so different than the others…

Left by Seb on September 22nd, 2007

what’s going to be in fallout 3 that is going to be completely new.

what are the new opportunities of the game to rave about, if there are any?

which of the options you gonna take in the game are going to be commpletely new?

like there was time fro everything in fallout.

and did you guys invent something which the original developers of the game forgot?

Left by eddie on September 22nd, 2007

Why are items or quick (to perform) actions being forbidden from the VATS queue up? I can understand why riffling through one’s backpack is out, but a few quick items and reloading isn’t out of the question is it? And how about adding “quick keys” for combat maneuvers like “hit the deck” “dive for cover” “roll”? Some people aren’t fast enough to do all the combat manipulations with mouse and keyboard in real time.

Left by ManTimeForgot on September 23rd, 2007

Is it possible that it might come out sooner? I think it would be a great game real time or turn based. It’s the humor, the story, the gore, the allegories that really made Fallout one of the greatest games ever.

Left by jCAL on September 23rd, 2007

Loved the fact you guys had the fan Q & A. When are you guys going to give some more info or screenshots ? I needs my fallout fix.

Left by unknowndrifter1982 on September 24th, 2007

are you bringing back harold… and bob!?

Left by BoyNothing on September 24th, 2007

Well in my opinion it would be awsome if you guys just made a fallout that is 3d but also more like f1 and f2. there is a nice game to compare this with i belive it is caled cold zero or some such a nice example of how a game can be rpg/3d/isometric view.. . altho it was not a turn based it could be easily switched… but my question would be will you put in all 3 versions of power armor (PA PAmk2 and enclave PA) coz i liked the PAmk2 most and it would be realy a shame if you denounce such a nice piece of equipment!?

Left by Hadriel Septim on September 24th, 2007

NOOO!!! Could you please tell me why do the supermutants look like orcs?!

Left by Piekny on September 25th, 2007

This may be a personal opinion, and sorry if it is, but it seems like a good idea to really make a list (as in actualy list them… on a page… physicaly… in one collection) alot of the difference’s between Fallout 3 and the original 1 + 2. I’m tired of forum searching for the mass majority of changes.
Some people like and dislike the changes, and i think it would be alot less hectic and sceptic if some of the changes were brought to light. Im not saying list all the features in Fallout 3 (hopefully im not, if I am, that means the game has changed drasticaly.. and this could be bad), im just saying list most of the major changes.
Lastly, I understand the great amount of stress that Bethesda is. I realise that the company is working extremely hard to accomplish its goals and satisphy the massive population and expectations of the countless number Fallout fans. But it would be greatly appreciated if you clarified alot of these changes. This forum is doing a heft job of that, but still, I would like to see more. Than again, I am just one fan…

Left by Shawn on September 25th, 2007

Like the others have said too, thank you for taking the effort and the risk of reviving Fallout and making a sequel of it. i hope it pays you off well.

As far as i can understand, you’ve been going through this for 3 years already so there is no chance for major changes according to our “old” guy mentality of strict turn based with 2d graphics.

Just please make it worth it for us the near or already 30 year old guys who want to feel again the pleasure that kept us awake at nights a decade ago.It’s a bit tricky though.

As for your choices and the 3d graphics the best thing we can only do is to wait and see. Hope dies last as they say.

Good luck.

Left by Nick the Greek on September 25th, 2007

Wow, there’s a lot of “interesting” questions above…ahem.

(1) From what I’ve read on the subject, it appears that the combat play is not real-time (strictly speaking) OR turn-based. The VATS system seems to zoom in on each target individually. This would seem to distort your view of multiple opponents and make you zoom in/out multiple times.

What if you started killing Enemy 1 and then decided to start killing Enemy 2 instead? (I did this quite a bit in Fallout 2.) The VATS system freezes time each time, right? Every time you zoom back out, it would appear that you waste valuable seconds you could be blasting away at Enemy 1. Does the time freeze somehow between switching to other enemies? How does this work? It doesn’t seem to…

(2) I’m sort of afraid that the 3D environment may make this game into a sort of “Myst” where you spend tons of time figuring out problems in the 3D world. I’m sure there’s a bunch of combat, too, but from the screenshots I’ve seen, it looks like a mix between Mechwarrior briefing rooms and Myst-like characters…booring…sorry, but that’s really what it looks like to me…Thoughts?

Left by Joe on September 26th, 2007

Who is going to do the music/what will it be like?

Are you going to stick with the dark ambient soundscapes of the first two or give us an orchestrated oblivion-like soundtrack?

Left by Portal 13 on September 27th, 2007

Hey there guys, i see alot of the blokes are worried about their fixes(booze/pills) haha…
I’m certain, seeing as i have hundreds of hours on both oblivion and morrowind by bethesda, and i’m finishing f2 for the umptnth time, that the game will absolutely kick-ass.
A better merger for an rpg cannot be found anywhere, seeing as both of these brilliant companies brought us something totally new and exciting.
Go Beth crew, Go fallout crew.

Left by Vincent on September 27th, 2007

I’m curious about 1 thing.Are there gonna be Reavers ( tech fighters ) in Fallout 3 ? Is “The Chosen One” somehow connected with character in Fallout 3 ?

Can’t wait for Fallout 3!!!

Thanx

Left by DickValentine on September 28th, 2007

Will there be an armor similar -in looks- to the “Advanced Power Armor” in Fallout 2 and the “Power Armor” in BOS? They are as equally important in an iconic way for the series as The Pip Boy.

Left by M. C. Tanyeli on September 28th, 2007

Will the scale of cities and other locations match the concept art paintings that has been revealed so far? How much explorable area will be implemented into large scale buildings and/or vehicles such as the aircraft carrier? Will there be doors with no rooms behind them?

Left by M. C. Tanyeli on September 28th, 2007

Since the game will be in full 3D with more detail and will take place around an altered real-life city, will there be famous places? (not just only the obvious ones)
Is art department working mostly with imaginary material, or are you using mid-20th century photographs and city plans to formulate an alternative history, followed by an imaginary WW-III?

Left by M. C. Tanyeli on September 28th, 2007

Every game in Fallout series used various historical materials from various eras and merged it to its own alternative timeline. It would have been impossible for some of those historical “implants” to exist since they were actually dated after the imaginary WW-III. (such as Hummer in BOS…)
Will Fallout 3 include such ironic/witty historical references -minus humorous special encounters?

Left by M. C. Tanyeli on September 28th, 2007

One of the “signature” aspects of the Fallout games is that there is no hope. This feeling is often intensified by disturbing “mechanic” music and a desaturated color scheme. The screenshots so far explain the situation in the “wasteland” but it looks as if they are far from the original concept, unlike the concept art… They look dirty but friendly. Maybe it’s just me, but I was always forced to imagine the Fallout realm as a nuclear desert under a dark-orange fading sun. (mostly because of the BOS menu graphic) Will the final game match the concept art and/or previous games in a sense of morale-killing, bitter tasted, visual quality?

Left by M. C. Tanyeli on September 29th, 2007

Thanks for the questions MC, keep these in your head. We might plan on doing another Q&A down the road.

Left by gstaff on September 29th, 2007

Will Fallout 3 have really sexy graphics because i checked out the aussie 360 mag and they looked HOT, and will it have the same talking scheme as oblivion
[eg]
What do i care?
Serves you right!
Tell me more!
[Nothing]
or have you packed a full-on new fahrenheit scheme where you twiddle the view stick to do what you please?
this being what i heard from an amigo, [and dearly hope]
Write back!

Left by Stier on October 1st, 2007

in the previous fallout games, you had the ability to have other people follow you/help you in your quest, such character as Sulik. is there gonna be more people that will come with you and fight with you in battles? if so can you supply them with armor/weapons/meds etc.? Also, will you be able to up their skills and attributes during gameplay as their stats/points go up?

Left by nemo on October 1st, 2007

will fallout 3 have multiplayer or online play?

Left by Dago on October 1st, 2007

Hopefully, Bethesda will stick to turn based. Wouldn’t it be awesome to see time freeze by and see the bullets fly and hit the guy etc etc? haha. Maybe its just me. Anw, i have full trust in their abilities to make this game kick ass. My only worry? its gonna be a hell of a wait :/

Oh yeah, my question : Is your character fully customize-able like Oblivion? And is the gameplay immersive till say… 100 hrs of game play? haha.. that would surely be a blast.

Left by Lanze on October 2nd, 2007

From reading the above comments it seems a lot of people really need to get over to the official website and check it out :) Everything I have seen so far looks like this will be one of the biggest and best titles to be released next year and i for one cant wait. I have not been so excited about a game being released for a very long time! I am wondering when the more vidz and pics will be realeased, so far I have seen some really good pics but I have only seen one vid (apart from the excellent interview vid) and would love to know when we will be feed more. Also does anyone know if you will be able to drive the odd vechile and how will you travel between cities? I loved how you could Fix the car in Fallout 2 which not only made travel easier but the trunk space was awesome for hoarders like me :)

Left by Jeremy on October 3rd, 2007

Actually if Fallout 3 is not same as Fallout 1 and 2 in terms of way it is played I dont think it will interest me much. What I liked with Fallout 1/2 is the story and the way it was played. It would defeat the purpose to propose me a fallout 3 played like final fantasy for example. I will not be tempted at all. I would enjoy fallout 3 as a continuation of fallout 1/2 in a similar style of game. Maybe just more complex but surely not if it is different.

Left by rajiv on October 3rd, 2007

im wondering, you sead thet these fallout3 well be first or third pirson view, buth well theat be third person like oblivion or like old fallou stile??

Left by vladimir_croatia on October 3rd, 2007

So if you can win a Xbox 360 Pro…and it even says under it that you name will be in the game if you win the contest…that means the game will be for 360 too!!!1 I knew it if this is true I love Bethesda….I knew I didn’t buy a 360 for nothing.

Left by Sejad on October 4th, 2007

quote from Daimyo 9.18.07 “80ish hours into Oblivion I have to say that I am even more excited about Fallout 3 now”

WOW, ain’t he gonna be impressed when the Oblivion Abomb that kills most of the animation (read ‘game’) strikes.

I wish I could be as excited about Fallout3 as I was in buying Oblivion collectors edition (and an xbox360 at the same time, JUST to play THAT game), but the idea that Fallout3 could well have the same animation glitch, and that Bethesda will do NOTHING about it while still selling copies as quickly as possible (as per Oblivion), makes me sick.

Someone or group should take these guys to court after about 12months knowing of this glitch and doing nothing.

Left by ex_Oblivion_Player on October 4th, 2007

My comment is awaiting moderation.

Well, there’s no swearing, no typographical errors, no LIES

… so i should be able to read my post in your column after it’s ‘moderated’ hey!

Left by ex_Oblivion_Player on October 4th, 2007

We have moderation turned on because of the huge amount of spam posts we get from bots that would completely clog the comments section if we didn’t filter them out through moderation.

Left by Pete on October 4th, 2007

Everything i want to know is this. Are you as free in f3 as you were in f1 and 2 everybody in here knows the essence of fallout is that you are free to move around the world finding random encounters being a do gooder or an evil prick. not like doom 3 where you finish one level after another until you meet the final boss. and will you use some of the old weapons ? btw beshida has done alot of good work so i have faith. dont tell me its ill placed :)

Left by Gunnar on October 4th, 2007

yup u let me down. you aint traveling between citys. it happens in one city and therefor you have killed fallout.

Left by Gunnar on October 4th, 2007

Sejad,

Yes the game is on PC, PS3, and 360.

Left by gstaff on October 4th, 2007

1 major and critical question that everyone want to know….
when fallout 3 will be released? at least give us some hint like 3-4 months later…

Left by fallout_fonder on October 4th, 2007

As the teaser trailer indicates, the game is coming out “Fall 2008.”

As we get closer to the game’s release, more specific details will emerge.

Left by gstaff on October 4th, 2007

one thing that i loved about f2 was the fact that you could go into gun shops and completely destroy the owners and merchants selling their goods and take all their stuff.. are we gonna be able to do that in f3? and also are we going to have the ability to upgrade weapons like in f2?

Left by nemeth on October 4th, 2007

I am a big fan of all the previous PC games, I still own and play all of them in diffrent ways each time. Bestheda did the best job I’ve ever seen as far as Options in a game(Oblivion). But still the player feels limited in a way because you only have six or so Mission brackets(fighters guild Ect..)

Will you be able to recruit people as you did in 1&2. And if so will the recruited charecters have thier own missions come with them.You know, thier own personal agenda that the player can help with. Does many, not a few, but Many NPC’s have problems the player can solve with his attributes. I want a fallout 3, that doesn’t feel like a remake but an improvement. Is this it.

Left by Corey Stephens on October 4th, 2007

One more thing, Read these comments and Questions. Its good stuff and its what will make a good game. I’ve read them and I think a large portion of these things should be in the game. If you want it to be a big seller listen to the franchise fans.

Left by Corey Stephens on October 4th, 2007

Is the perk and traits from fallout 1 & 2 will be continue in fallout 3? Is the leveling system same as previous fallout:->3 level per perk?

Left by fallout_fonder on October 5th, 2007

Hey Corey,

You might want to take a look at question five from the Q&A, as well as the first “bonus question” — that might give you a better understanding of recruited players.

http://www.bethsoft.com/bgsforums/index.php?showtopic=755135

Thanks for your comments

Left by Gstaff on October 5th, 2007

Fallout 1&2 are my favourites games ever.I hope Fallout 3 to have the same graphic (2d), atmosphere, ironic dialogues, characters, way of playing….in fact I praise for that.What`s the point to make another 3d good looking RPG when there are a lot on the market.
Fallout 1&2 are unique and I hope Fallout 3 will be the same.Otherwise why even bother to buy it.Guys I wait for Fallout 3 for years like other fans so please don`t let us down developing a fresh, good looking and politicaly corect game.

Thanx

Left by silviu on October 5th, 2007

Will the designers work on separate GUIs for the PC, xBox and PS3 versions? I was very disappointed with the GUI in Oblivion (it was obviously tailored to the xBox) and I’m hoping that mistake won’t be repeated.

Left by Brian on October 5th, 2007

The Fall 2008 drops on which months in Malaysia because there is no fall in malaysia :(

Left by fallout_fonder on October 6th, 2007

This game will suck…hard! If any of you are hoping for something similar to the originals, you’re just kidding yourselves. Beth sold out the franchise and most importantly, the fans.

RTwP/FPS for a fallout game? Removing half of the things that made the original great? Adding nukes and the ability to drink out of toilets? Robotic dialogue? Remember that lively party you have in the first two games? Well forget it, cause they took that out too.
This is worst than Oblivion with guns. This is Uber FOPOS. I’d rather play a Disney game. Save your money for SC2 guys. Don’t support a company that sold out one of the best RPG because they want to make a few extra bucks.

Left by bethsucks on October 7th, 2007

So ummm… question. Not necessarily about fallout 3… more about one of the other less popular fallout titals. What happened to Fallout: Tactics. The game had an amazing concept behind it. The gameplay was kinda rough. And in some senses didnt quite match up to Fallout par, especialy in the story line department; but I was mildly curious to see if you guys planned on ever going back to the CTB and STB modes in another Fallout: Tactics kinda way. It was really really fun being able to control and customize more than one character… really cool.

Left by Shawn on October 7th, 2007

Shawn,

Fallout 3 is the first Fallout title we’ve worked on. For the time being, our focus is really about getting this game ready for next year.

Left by Gstaff on October 8th, 2007

After searching through all the hype and lies that critics have came up with I have come to the conclusion that this game will rock. I really only want to know four things, (1) Will I be able to buy/steal/take a vault for my own? (2)Will there be random encounters/attackers on my own vualt? (3)when can I get my hands on the demo. (4) do you need a beta tester?

Thank you for continuing a Fallout legacy

Left by Colby on October 8th, 2007

fallout must have at least one worcking CAR!

Left by Stas on October 9th, 2007

why does nobody answer my question? DO or DO NOT all supermutants in the game look like the one in the screenshot section of fallout3 website? Cause I wouln’d call him a supermutant if you paid me for it. Looks more like some sort of orc. I hope your ghouls won’t just look like some futuristic zombies.

Left by Piekny on October 9th, 2007

We might tackle some more questions down the road, so thanks for the continued questions.

In terms of beta testing, if we’re looking for testers, it would be on our jobs page here.

http://www.bethsoft.com/links/bethsoft_jobs.html

Left by Gstaff on October 9th, 2007

Have the staff involved with creating FO3 even *played* FO1 and -2?

Left by skeptical on October 11th, 2007

A: I’m really excited about fallout 3. But I’m not really expecting it to be like the first two at all.
B: Even if this does turn out to be Oblivion with guns, I’ll still buy it.
C: Now for my actual question; comedy. The random/rediculous comedy of the first two games made them awesome. Are you guys even trying to make anything funny in this one?
Thanks

Left by Maxx on October 11th, 2007

Skeptical

Quite a few of our devs sounded off on the first two games here…

http://bethblog.com/?p=285

Left by Gstaff on October 12th, 2007

Well.. hard to describe the passion all fallout fans still have for the series. Most of my friends still play fallout 1 2 and tactics once in a while and they miss the feeling and ambience fallout had on the previous versions. Bringing the game to a 3d fps stylish enviroment will be a great chalange i sure hope it will be done properly.

Turn base was important in fallout.. gave the game an awesome feeling in tactical terms and thinking.. something that nowadays games miss.

Would be nice to keep at least a turn based option available. Will that be implemented? Cos tbh.. most fallout fans like turn based games..

Left by Draug on October 14th, 2007

Through both Fallout 1 & 2 there is only one gun that i’ve used, please tell me for the love of sanity that the .223 pistol will be in fallout 3!

Left by Dago on October 15th, 2007

Agreed with Dago from above. It was an awsome handgun and deffinetly a favorite.

One other question though, is the karma system gonna be more like kotr or the old fallout games? Or is it going to be something unique that none of us have ever really seen before.

Also, are there any plans for a map editor open to the public?

Left by Shawn on October 15th, 2007

Fallout Tactics…best game ever.

I like the squad-based action, with the OPTION for real-time/turn based.

I just hope to not be let down…I also am hopefull for realistic weapon/combat physics, I am in the military and I pay attention to these sorts of things.

Can you tell me about the physics?

I do look forward to the release though.

Left by Mr. Self Destruct on October 16th, 2007

Yea… what kind of engine is this going to be running on. Is it going to use the same as Oblivion or, again, is it going to be something new. Or, yet again, will we not know until later.

Left by Shawn on October 17th, 2007

Add multiplayer to it. online through xbox live or something like that. The one thing that I have always wish about the fallout games as well as the elder scroll games was that you could play multiplayer, through lanning would also be great.

Left by Chris on October 17th, 2007

People, why do you ask questions asnwered about 20 times before? The engine is an upgraded oblivion engine. No multiplayer and as far as I know Black Isle still has the rights to do a Fallout MMORPG. And of course there is not going to be a turn-based combat. How do you expect that to look in an oblivion-like post-nulear fpp/tpp? And for the third time I return to my question: are those supermutants in the game gonna look like oblivion orcs or not?

Left by Piekny on October 23rd, 2007

Well we dont want another Oblivion misusing Fallout atmosphere, is that clear? Thumbs up! Good luck.

Left by Milo on October 26th, 2007

I can see that this will not be a faithful rendition of Fallout. I have purchased Morrowind & Oblivion which were fine in their own right, but even those had elements that changed from one to the other, the lack of flying ability, for example.

According to the interviews given to magazines this is basically Bethesda’s Version of Fallout. Also that they aren’t interested in resurrecting the ‘Old Fallout’ fan base.

I will remain vigilant for a true sequel to the old
fallouts. I guess I’ll have to wait another 5 years for someone to get nostalgic enough to want to do it right. I may buy this version later after it gets conscripted to the bargain barrels.

Left by lebluk on October 27th, 2007

So, will the VATS system be one way only, or will enemies have an aimed shot system too? Also, I know that how well you do in combat relies heavily on your SPECIAL stats, but what about the enemies? Will it be more like Oblivion where a clear visual hit means a CLEAR VISUAL HIT, or will enemies have stats and armor that will dictate things like hit or miss chances kind of like Morrowind. And will better armor and stats give you the same advantage over them? Basically, will enemies be built just like you, or will they just be intelligent target dummies.

Left by Biovore on October 28th, 2007

Things that really made F1&2 great (from my POW):

1. humor
2. travel & random encounters
3. textbox
4. turn-based combat
5. the car
6. endless possibilities (you can finish the story line in so many ways)
7. soundtrack

I hope I’ll see all of them in F3.

Left by zetone on October 28th, 2007

Hi,

I’ve a couple of suggestions, and I realise I’m WAY down the bottom of the page, but I hope the right person somehow reads this -

- F1+2 dialogues always had one option that let you scathingly (and very amusingly) insult whoever you were talking to, I think this was one of the real beauties of the games

- I understand why you don’t want textual descriptions of objects. Sometimes, though, it’s nice to be able to read a bit more detail about objects, people, and the world. It just adds extra flavour.

- The VATS system is excellent, and in fact is nearly identical to an idea I had a few years ago. Have you been stealing my notebooks? Anyways, the idea of significantly reducing player damage whilst the camera is watching other stuff, seems like it might detract from realism (in a purely geeky role-playing sense). Instead (and I know this is tricky) how about zooming the camera to a position where BOTH events are visibile; for instance, an aerial view, or an over-the-shoulder view that shows both the near-by event and the other in the distance?

- In regards to the Oblivion fast travel system, I felt this disconnected me from the game world. The original Fallouts had it about right, you could travel quickly across the map, but you still got a sense of the time passing. I’d kinda prefer it if, rather than the entire world being modelled in painstaking detail (a la Oblivion), you guys just spent the time on the more significant locations and stories, have them strewn across a HUGE map, and build a few generic scenery sandboxes to randomly throw in for wasteland encounters. It sounds nice to be able to walk right across the game world in first person, but most of the time the only bits that matter are the main destinations, and by having to build ALL that scenery in between, you’re massively limiting the size of the world you can create. Fallout created the illusion of an enormous game, with really only a handful of relatively small locations to visit. Of course, you’re the developers, so I won’t try to tell you how manage your priorities. (If it were up to me, games would be using flat polygon stickmen, so ALL the development could go into the story…)

- Also for random encounters, there should be an option to skip encounters (only if you have a high enough level compared to the levels of the creatures you’re encountering).

All that aside, from what Todd has written, this looks like it’s going to be a GREAT game. Please ignore the various illiterate responses of “what! you’ve gone and CHANGED stuff, that’s suxxor” (these people generally seemed like they hadn’t even bothered to properly read the article).

The Fallout series is seriously high in my top games of all time, and you guys seem to recognise all the reasons why! Yes, I’m looking forward to it. I hope Bethesda realise how popular this title’s going to be; this post is still “number one most popular” a month and a half after it was posted.

(On the above point, take heed of 2K’s palava with the Bioshock activation servers, if you plan on using any similarly draconian kind of copyright system ;)

Left by serializer on October 29th, 2007

Good morning, just a quick question, i read somewhere that the leveling system from Oblivion would also be applied to Fallout 3, just wondered if this was true, hope not because the although Oblivion was a very very good game which i personally ranked up nearly 200 hours on (over a few months) without playing the expansions, the leveling system makes it pointless in leveling up, i agree with the thing about some enemies should always be more powerfull like bosses etc, that makes it more intersting, but having all the enemies level up around you makes it pointless in leveling up really as you can complete the game on a very low level, just wondered for some insight, i am a huge fallout fan and even though its straying from the original genre i am really looking forward to the new one, keep up the good work guys

Left by MadMax on October 30th, 2007

Good morning,
Nice to see that my question was removed without an answer, take it that you agree the leveling system is a load of toss and didnt work, hope this isnt put into the new fallout, because despite going away from the original genre, taking away the levelling system (which worked really well) would be a shame, i only hope that you do make an actual fallout game and not oblivion with guns

Left by Madmax on October 30th, 2007

I hear alot of complaining about the handling of the Fallout license, but I was blown away by Oblivion. I definitely look forward to Fallout 3. I’ve been keeping up with interviews and postings, and I feel that the game will be true to the memory of the original Fallout universe. Good luck and I’m waiting for preorder availability!

Left by juan on November 12th, 2007

fallout 3 better not be some censored, watered-down piece of crap. i liked everything about fallout 2 and i may be dissapointed if 3 isnt as involving, i could care less about action if game & character depth are sacrificed. i also liked the drugs hookers and text boxes of the first 2 games. why change something that was great?

Left by Jeffie Poo on December 11th, 2007

i have beaten fallout 1,2 and tactics for the PC and loved them but i was really disappointed when i played fallout brotherhood of steel for xbox1.that game was an embarrassment. so i hope bethesda brings fallout 3 to a whole new level of RPG fun and excitement.

Left by outlaw_hemm on December 22nd, 2007

I was just wondering if there would be NPC companions, and if so how many? I am replaying the original Fallout in anticipation for Fallout 3 and it is pretty awesome having all those characters following you around

Left by Andy on January 7th, 2008

oh, yes another question: will we have the possibility to have dogs or any other animals from the wasteland with us to fight hard and bloody?

Left by Tzun on January 17th, 2008

I realise this isnt going to be read for a very long time and im not sure im not repeating someone so if i am sorry.
Personaly i would like fallout 3 to not have quests decissions to just add flavour.You might very well be killing off an orphanage in that quest.I think the general reaction of all ‘good’ NPCs is gona be somewhat dubious.And even raiders wouldnt treat you as a friend.Basicaly something like that could make you an outcast.
And just in general fallout games were challenging.Having your enemies level along with you is no offense but the dumbest idea for fallout.Having a rat be as powerfull as a minigun armed power armor wearing trained member of the BOS has as much logic and believability in it as a fairy tale book.Fallout should be a hard game.There should be places where going in blasting is just a garuante for one extra bullet(in your head).Think something like the early resident evil games.They tried to get rid of the player.Not help him on his way.And that was the most fun.

Well ive said more than i needed.Good luck with the project Bethesda.Were all counting on you.

Left by Quitarias on January 24th, 2008

will the Brotherhood of steel use advanced helicopters or VTOLs (like the ones the Enclave used in fallout 2)to transport there soldiers safely across the nuclear wasteland? Because that would certainly make more sense than just walking everywhere…………….

Left by Nick on February 15th, 2008

How will your stats and skills affect the character in real time combat? Will i be able to shoot at something in my cross hairs in point blank range and still be able to miss if my skill is low enough? Also wheres melee combat?
Can you give me some examples of how non-combative skills will be utilized? How many NPCs would be able to join my party? And when you die will you still be dead forever? what im trying to say is will the saving system stay the same? or if you changed it can you tell us how it will work?
Is there any chance that we can skip over the tutorials? i really feel that they take away from the game. Are you guys gonna put a manual like in the originals? Those were always fun and informative to read through.
I guess thats it for now. Good luck.

Left by Luis on May 1st, 2008

Are there going to be exciting sides quests aside from the main storyline? Like in Oblivion, you had the Mages Guild, the Fighters Guild, Dark Brotherhood, And Knights of the Nine. I’m looking forward some kind of sides quests.

Left by Brian on May 2nd, 2008

Regarding text issue: How are you planning to make the language translation? Using only spoken (you can only hear it) dialogues would make the game tedious, and with any lil crash or something, you would miss something. Text dialogues simplify and make the storyline much easier to follow. Also, most great adventure/RPG games have this character communication system.

I also think that as said before music place a huge part on the games atmosphere: It will stay the same style as o F2 or FoT? I mean, i hated those creepy sound like frogs dieng and bats eating their own guts. I wouldn’t say to put any special music (pleaso no techno!), but i think that anything more instrumental than the sound of stepping on some dead monster will beat it!

Character recruiting will still be available? Missions will stay full-squad, or will be there missions where you are asked to leave some men behind for the moment?

Any hint on system requirements? I mean, RPG where never hi-tec requierements, as long as you could afford a decent graphic card and some RAM, i guess that taking the 3D gap, will makes things much better for graphics (eye candy!), but much harder for old Pc’s (i could fry an egg on top of mine!).

In-game specs:
1. Will the skills be more balance as in F2?
Huge amount of people have complained that going for melee at FoT:BoS was somehow going naked to a dead-hunger board.
2. Any new weapon type?
I mean, we all loved the WWII rifles, the futuristic magnetic field weapons, the manslaughter vindicator and miniguns and also the obsolete rocks and such; but will there be as in F2 solar energy [day-working] weapon only?
3. new races? I can wait to get my hand on a Besty Squad!

Thanks for your answers in advance!

Left by Joaco on May 2nd, 2008

Will there be loading screens when entering buildings or subways? Or will it be possible to simply walk through the doorway?

Are there going to be any horror elements in the game?

Will the player suffer from injuries to specific body parts, in the same ways that enemies do? (eg. reduced movement speed due to an injured leg)

Is it possible to ‘own’ land, houses or even your own vault? If so, can you buy decorative, or possibly functional items to add to your property?

Does the HUD change depending on what armor/helmet you are wearing? It would be awesome to have special interfaces for power armor, or to be able to see the inside of the helmet you’re wearing.

Can the graphics scale back so that playable framerates can be achieved on older computers? I had some trouble with this playing Oblivion, my computer struggled despite the fact that it can run quite a few games with higher system requirements.

Will Fallout 3 be released worldwide simultaniouly, or will certain regions have a delayed release?

—–

Although I have read a few negative comments, I still believe that Fallout 3 will be an excellent game. The people complaining about changes most likely have not yet played the game, and shouldn’t attack the creators for making changes that are probably necessary to improve the game. For example, one of the medical skills in the original games was made redundant by an almost identical skill, which is why the skill might have been removed.

Left by M123 on May 3rd, 2008

I think fallout 3 will be great. I mean If you look at games like f1 and f2 do you really see those graphics and stuff in stores? I mean daggerfall (tes2) had better graphics as far as 3d goes and you c