The Fallout series has captivated gamers for decades with its immersive post-apocalyptic world, engaging storylines, and memorable characters. However, as with any long-running franchise, the Fallout universe has its share of complexities and inconsistencies. In this article, we’ll delve into the Fallout games that aren’t considered canon, exploring the reasons behind their exclusion and the implications for the franchise as a whole.
Understanding the Fallout Canon
Before we dive into the non-canonical games, it’s essential to understand what constitutes the Fallout canon. The Fallout universe is comprised of various media forms, including video games, tabletop games, novels, and comics. However, not all of these media forms are considered equal in terms of their canonicity.
The Bethesda Era
In 2007, Bethesda Game Studios acquired the rights to the Fallout franchise and has since developed several games, including Fallout 3, Fallout: New Vegas, Fallout 4, and Fallout 76. These games are considered part of the mainline Fallout series and are widely regarded as canon.
The Interplay Era
Prior to Bethesda’s acquisition, the Fallout franchise was developed by Interplay Entertainment, which produced the original Fallout (1997) and Fallout 2 (1998). These games are also considered canon, as they laid the foundation for the franchise and its lore.
Non-Canonical Fallout Games
Now that we’ve established the core canon, let’s explore the Fallout games that aren’t considered part of the official narrative.
Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel
Released in 2001, Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel is a tactical role-playing game developed by Micro Forté. Although it’s set in the Fallout universe, the game’s storyline and characters are not considered canon.
The game’s plot revolves around a Brotherhood of Steel faction in the Midwest, which is not mentioned in any other Fallout game. Additionally, the game’s ending is inconsistent with the events of Fallout 3, which further solidifies its non-canonical status.
Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel
Not to be confused with Fallout Tactics, Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel is an action role-playing game developed by Interplay Entertainment and released in 2004. The game’s storyline is set in a post-apocalyptic Texas and follows a group of Brotherhood of Steel initiates.
Although the game’s setting and characters are intriguing, its storyline and events are not considered part of the Fallout canon. The game’s narrative is inconsistent with the events of Fallout 3 and Fallout: New Vegas, and its characters are not mentioned in any other Fallout game.
Fallout Shelter
Released in 2015, Fallout Shelter is a mobile game developed by Bethesda Game Studios. While it’s set in the Fallout universe and features familiar characters and locations, the game’s storyline and events are not considered canon.
The game’s plot revolves around a Vault-Tec vault, where players must manage resources and make decisions to ensure the survival of their dwellers. Although the game is entertaining and engaging, its narrative is not connected to the mainline Fallout series.
Why Are These Games Non-Canonical?
So, why are these Fallout games not considered part of the official narrative? There are several reasons:
Inconsistencies with the Mainline Series
One of the primary reasons these games are non-canonical is that their storylines and events are inconsistent with the mainline Fallout series. For example, Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel’s ending is incompatible with the events of Fallout 3, while Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel’s narrative is inconsistent with the events of Fallout 3 and Fallout: New Vegas.
Lack of Continuity
Another reason these games are non-canonical is that they lack continuity with the mainline series. The characters, locations, and events in these games are not mentioned or referenced in any other Fallout game, which makes it difficult to integrate them into the larger narrative.
Developer Intent
In some cases, the developers themselves have stated that certain games are not considered canon. For example, Bethesda Game Studios has confirmed that Fallout Shelter is not part of the mainline Fallout series, but rather a spin-off game designed to promote Fallout 4.
Conclusion
The Fallout franchise is complex and multifaceted, with various media forms and storylines that intersect and diverge in fascinating ways. While the non-canonical games may not be part of the official narrative, they still offer valuable insights into the Fallout universe and its lore.
By understanding which games are considered canon and which are not, fans can better appreciate the intricacies of the Fallout franchise and its rich history. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the series, exploring the Fallout universe is a rewarding experience that’s sure to captivate and inspire.
| Game Title | Release Year | Developer | Canon Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel | 2001 | Micro Forté | Non-Canonical |
| Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel | 2004 | Interplay Entertainment | Non-Canonical |
| Fallout Shelter | 2015 | Bethesda Game Studios | Non-Canonical |
- Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel is a tactical role-playing game set in the Fallout universe, but its storyline and characters are not considered canon.
- Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel is an action role-playing game set in a post-apocalyptic Texas, but its narrative is inconsistent with the events of Fallout 3 and Fallout: New Vegas.
- Fallout Shelter is a mobile game set in the Fallout universe, but its storyline and events are not considered part of the mainline series.
What are some Fallout games that aren’t considered canon?
Fallout games that aren’t considered canon include Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel and Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel. These games were developed by different studios and their storylines deviate from the original Fallout universe. Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel, for example, was developed by Micro Forté and released in 2001. The game’s storyline takes place in a different region and features characters that aren’t mentioned in other Fallout games.
Another example is Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel, which was developed by Interplay Entertainment and released in 2004 for consoles. This game’s storyline is also not considered part of the main Fallout canon, as it features characters and events that contradict the original games. Players should note that while these games aren’t considered canon, they still offer engaging storylines and gameplay mechanics that are worth exploring.
Why are some Fallout games not considered part of the main canon?
Some Fallout games aren’t considered part of the main canon because their storylines and characters contradict or deviate from the original games. The Fallout universe is known for its complex and interconnected storyline, and games that don’t fit within this narrative are often considered non-canonical. This is often due to changes in development teams or studios, which can result in different creative visions and storylines that don’t align with the original games.
Bethesda Softworks, the current owner of the Fallout franchise, has also played a role in determining which games are considered canon. The company has stated that games like Fallout 3 and Fallout: New Vegas are part of the main canon, while games like Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel and Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel are not. This has helped to establish a clear narrative thread throughout the series and ensures that players can follow a cohesive storyline.
What is the difference between Fallout Tactics and the main Fallout games?
Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel is a tactical role-playing game that differs significantly from the main Fallout games. While the main games are open-world RPGs with a focus on exploration and character development, Fallout Tactics is a more linear game that focuses on tactical combat and party management. The game’s storyline is also separate from the main Fallout games, taking place in a different region and featuring characters that aren’t mentioned in other games.
Gameplay mechanics are also distinct, with Fallout Tactics featuring turn-based combat and a greater emphasis on party management. In contrast, the main Fallout games feature real-time combat and a greater focus on individual character development. Overall, Fallout Tactics offers a unique gaming experience that is distinct from the main Fallout games, but still offers an engaging and challenging experience for players.
Is Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel worth playing?
Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel is an action RPG that offers a unique gaming experience, despite not being considered part of the main Fallout canon. The game features a compelling storyline, engaging characters, and addictive gameplay mechanics. Players take on the role of a Brotherhood of Steel initiate, tasked with completing quests and battling enemies in a post-apocalyptic world.
While the game’s storyline may not be considered part of the main Fallout narrative, it still offers an interesting and engaging experience. The game’s characters, such as the protagonist and the Brotherhood of Steel leaders, are well-developed and add depth to the story. Additionally, the game’s gameplay mechanics, such as the character development system and the combat mechanics, are enjoyable and challenging. Overall, Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel is worth playing for fans of action RPGs and the Fallout series.
How does Fallout: New Vegas fit into the Fallout canon?
Fallout: New Vegas is considered part of the main Fallout canon, taking place in the same universe as Fallout 3 and Fallout 4. The game’s storyline is set in the Mojave Desert, where players take on the role of the Courier, a messenger who becomes embroiled in a conflict between various factions vying for control of the region. The game’s narrative is deeply connected to the events of Fallout 3 and the broader Fallout universe.
Fallout: New Vegas was developed by Obsidian Entertainment, which worked closely with Bethesda Softworks to ensure that the game’s storyline and characters fit within the established Fallout canon. The game’s events and characters are referenced in later Fallout games, such as Fallout 4, further solidifying its place within the Fallout narrative. Overall, Fallout: New Vegas is an important part of the Fallout canon, offering a rich and engaging storyline that expands on the Fallout universe.
What is the significance of the Brotherhood of Steel in the Fallout universe?
The Brotherhood of Steel is a significant faction in the Fallout universe, playing a central role in the series’ narrative. The Brotherhood is a technologically advanced organization that seeks to rebuild society and restore order in the post-apocalyptic world. They are known for their advanced technology, including power armor and energy weapons, which they use to protect their members and defend against external threats.
The Brotherhood of Steel is also a key player in the Fallout series’ storyline, often finding themselves at odds with other factions vying for power. In games like Fallout 3 and Fallout 4, the Brotherhood is a major faction that players can interact with, forming alliances or engaging in conflict. The Brotherhood’s ideology and goals are also explored in-depth, adding depth to the Fallout universe and its lore. Overall, the Brotherhood of Steel is a crucial part of the Fallout universe, offering a rich and complex narrative thread that spans multiple games.
How does Bethesda Softworks determine what is considered canon in the Fallout universe?
Bethesda Softworks determines what is considered canon in the Fallout universe through a combination of internal decision-making and collaboration with external developers. When Bethesda acquired the Fallout franchise, they established a clear vision for the series’ narrative and lore. This vision is guided by the company’s internal lore team, which works to ensure consistency and coherence across all Fallout games and media.
Bethesda also collaborates with external developers, such as Obsidian Entertainment, to ensure that their games fit within the established Fallout canon. This involves sharing lore and narrative information, as well as reviewing and approving game storylines and characters. In some cases, Bethesda may also retcon (retroactively change) certain elements of the Fallout universe to ensure consistency and coherence. Overall, Bethesda’s approach to determining canon in the Fallout universe is guided by a commitment to creating a rich and immersive narrative that spans multiple games and media.