It’s been quite some time since Bethesda released a new episode of their famed RPG franchises. Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim came out four years ago, while Fallout 3 released seven years ago; Fallout: New Vegas five years ago, true, but that was made by Obsidian Entertainment.
It’s understandable that RPG fans are a little anxious about Fallout 4’s imminent release, then. Today, Bethesda shared some new information in a press release titled “10 Things You Didn’t Know About Fallout 4”; let’s take a look at it.
Better Alone Than Accompanied?
At least a dozen companions have been confirmed for Fallout 4, among which a loyal dog, a philanthropist outlaw and a robot butler. A wide range of opportunities indeed, but what made Fallout 3 really special was the loneliness. Humanity had been almost wiped away, and you were one of the few survivors: a sensation that spread through you while you roamed the hostile Wasteland. Even in Fallout 4 you’ll be able to be alone if you want and not only you won’t be penalized, you’ll actually get access to some exclusive perks.
Weather Forecast – Radioactive Storms
The variable weather isn’t really a novelty in open world games anymore, but usually those titles are not set in a country devastated by nuclear weapons. Living in a world with more water might seem ideal, but it would be dangerously close to the Glowing Sea, called that way since that’s where the bomb fell. Storms that rage from this point are radioactive and can hit you anywhere, anytime in the Commonwealth. Acid rain will make you wish to wear a metallic armor, but that might not be a great idea when radioactive lightning strikes start raining down from the sky.
In the Hearts of Machines
While most of you will be happy to treat Mr. Handy, your robot butler, with respect and dignity, it’s fair to say that some might be already thinking about trying the new V.A.T.S. system on it. The high level of detail in Fallout 4 also includes the internal parts of each machine, so if you fire on a robot you’ll be able to see the circuits behind its cladding. A small but remarkable detail, since making androids go boom is much more satisfying after you’ve seen how hard it must have been to build them.
Sometimes It’s Best Not To Meddle
A great way to improve the sense of realism of an open world game is to give the impression that the lives of NPCs (non-playing characters) go on whether you’re there or not. In Fallout 4, it’s possible to stumble in conflicts while you explore Boston. A group of savage night-owls might clash with unlucky bandits and it’ll be up to you (as long as you’re not seen) whether to intervene or not. Moreover, nothing prevents you to watch the whole scene from afar before jumping on the weakened survivors and ultimately rob all corpses.
You Just Won’t Shut Up
Fallout 4 dubbing actors have recorded over 13K lines and the whole game has more dialogues than Fallout 3 and Skyrim combined. If you don’t like talking, especially with strangers, you may however ignore NPCs, leaving mid-conversation or even just shooting them in the mouth. On the other hand, if you enjoy talking you’ll be able to do that even with more characters at once in “multi-chat”.