First Impressions – Fallout 3 from Bethesda Softworks (Xbox 360)
I’m six or seven hours into Fallout 3 and I wanted to give some quick first impressions. This is a game that I intend to spend many dozens of hours in, and a full review won’t be possible for a little while.
Everything I’ve experienced so far indicates that Bethesda Softworks has nailed the dangerous, gritty magic of the Fallout world. This really is Fallout 3, and not Oblivion with guns. Preview screenshots and videos may have led to some concerns on this matter, but my fears have been allayed.
Gameplay is tight and polished. Character creation is fun, immersive, and innovative. Exploring the Capital Wasteland is tense, and the V.A.T.S. (Vault-Tec Assisted Targeting System) combat is bloody (nyuk nyuk) satisfying. My only concern is that, even at a low level of skill, the horrifying decapitation and dismemberment that Fallout is known for is rather commonplace. Will it evolve and still be satisfying at higher levels, or will it become kinda “meh”?
The visuals are incredible. The Oblivion engine has grown up nicely and many of its nagging inadequacies seem to have been addressed. I’m excited to explore Fallout 3’s vision of post-apocalyptic DC. Bethesda Softworks is a local company here in the DC area (I drive by their office every day on the way to work!) and I look forward to finding all the little tidbits and landmarks they’ve thrown in.
Music and sound design are excellent. These are very important elements to me and I haven’t yet been disappointed. Voice acting is top quality and fits well with the setting. The background music is moody and ambient, but quickly picks up if bullets start flying. Another nice little touch is that you can pick up radio signals that provide an in-game soundtrack that adds to the immersion. Period music, like in Bioshock, is a vital part of the mix.
Very little of the story has been revealed so far. You begin life in Vault 101, but events early in the game lead you out into the Capital Wasteland in search of your father. The minor quests I’ve undertaken so far have been varied and enjoyable.
That’s about all I can say so far. I am very excited about digging into this game. A full review will come when it comes – Fallout 3 is an experience that demands to be savored.
