Fallout 3

 PC
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 5318 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3,751 out of 5318
  2. Mixed: 987 out of 5318
  3. Negative: 580 out of 5318
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  1. Mahdiar
    Jul 6, 2016
    9
    Gameplay : 9
    Graphics : 9
    Story : 8
    Sound : 8
    **********************************************************************************
    Overall : 9
  2. Barby
    Dec 1, 2014
    8
    It was one of my best experiences in terms of immersion when I felt alone in the devastated Wasteland, its story is one of my favorites about leaving the innocence to a merciless adult world, I love the chance to choose to play in 3rd or 1st person (I prefer 3rd), also I love the free, open and endless world to do whatever I want.

    But it feels mostly oriented to casuals, it can't be    It was one of my best experiences in terms of immersion when I felt alone in the devastated Wasteland, its story is one of my favorites about leaving the innocence to a merciless adult world, I love the chance to choose to play in 3rd or 1st person (I prefer 3rd), also I love the free, open and endless world to do whatever I want.

    But it feels mostly oriented to casuals, it can't be played without DarNified, Fallout Wanderers Edition, NMCs Texture Pack, Mart's Mutant Mod, Fellout, DC Interiors Project, Reanimated, EVE, Project Beauty, Hair packs, male and female body replacers, weapons and armor additions, homes, Pip Boy replacers, or better, build your own mods!

    Vanilla it deserves not more a 6, but modded is a solid 10, yes, the polishing work have done by the community but this is possible because it has one of the bests toolset out there, well thought Bethesda!    … Expand
  3. Chrisisoslod
    Aug 11, 2015
    9
    I am over 110 hours in and still finding things that i have not seen. This game is HUGE. Not only is it huge but it is a world worth exploring. This game is a Post Apocalyptic RPG and depicts the Future in Downtown Washington DC after WWIII. The charm of this game comes from the Retro 50's style the game has. The game does have a few problems.While it truly shines in Exploration,I am over 110 hours in and still finding things that i have not seen. This game is HUGE. Not only is it huge but it is a world worth exploring. This game is a Post Apocalyptic RPG and depicts the Future in Downtown Washington DC after WWIII. The charm of this game comes from the Retro 50's style the game has. The game does have a few problems.While it truly shines in Exploration, Memorable Sidequests and an unforgettable soundtrack you will sing along to in the entirety of your journey in the Wasteland. The game does not have a Sprint Button which makes it more difficult to traverse this huge Game World. It also suffers from Clunky Combat and Animations like plenty of Bethesda games have in the past. The community in this game is still pretty alive thanks to plenty of mods adding content and keeping the game up to date. This game is truly a MUST HAVE Action RPG for PC Gamers and Console Gamers alike. I must say this is my Favorite Game Of All Time despite some of its glaring problems.… Expand
  4. LegionIscariot
    Oct 7, 2015
    9
    I love this game.

    Growing up in a vault, all hell breaks loose and you take your first steps out into the world.

    The Lone Wanderer from vault 101 they call you.

    A big world to explore and alot of fun to be had.

    You are equipped with the Pipboy, one of the coolest gadgets in gaming, really helps this game be even more fun.

    Good or evil, you choose your path.
  5. RonI
    May 4, 2009
    9
    I am very surprised by the other users' ratings of this game. IMO, this is the best game I've played in a really long time. If you are used to a scripted/linear game, you may not like it because the entire premise of the Fallout series is that it is non-linear. You can do a huge variety of things from being good, evil, neutral, mechanic, gun specialist, energy weapons, melee, I am very surprised by the other users' ratings of this game. IMO, this is the best game I've played in a really long time. If you are used to a scripted/linear game, you may not like it because the entire premise of the Fallout series is that it is non-linear. You can do a huge variety of things from being good, evil, neutral, mechanic, gun specialist, energy weapons, melee, etc. If you think the game is too easy, I'd be curious to know what difficulty level you are playing. I do admit that the Super Mutants should be a bit tougher than they are, but they're not easy especially if you run into a whole patrol. To each their own I guess. As a huge fan of Fallout and Fallout 2, I really give this a major thumbs up.… Expand
  6. Jamesg
    Aug 9, 2009
    10
    The best graphics by far and an awesome game play. Even in the wasteland you can just take time and look around at how amazing it is. The game play is good to. With the vats even new people can be good at it. A good story line where you can choose to be good or evil. I played it more then twice to see what would happen as playing it evil then good.There is also a bunch of side quest in The best graphics by far and an awesome game play. Even in the wasteland you can just take time and look around at how amazing it is. The game play is good to. With the vats even new people can be good at it. A good story line where you can choose to be good or evil. I played it more then twice to see what would happen as playing it evil then good.There is also a bunch of side quest in case u beat the main one.If you like shooting then you definitely should get it.… Expand
  7. ar
    Jan 4, 2010
    10
    I really did not have a problem with this game. Not a huge gamer; it was definitely entertaining to me. Interesting story line (what would it actually be like after nuclear fallout?), although it CAN become repetitive after a while. All in all a ten for me.
  8. AurelianoF
    Nov 10, 2008
    10
    One of the best game i have ever played. Awesome environment with stunning graphics, sounds and atmosphere. What i liked about this game it's the oportunity of do whatever you want, go to any place you want, and especially the oportunity of take different decisions. At the beginning i didn't hold hope for this one since i never played Fallout 1 and 2. But then i gave it a try One of the best game i have ever played. Awesome environment with stunning graphics, sounds and atmosphere. What i liked about this game it's the oportunity of do whatever you want, go to any place you want, and especially the oportunity of take different decisions. At the beginning i didn't hold hope for this one since i never played Fallout 1 and 2. But then i gave it a try and i realized how amazing it is.. This is a ''MUST HAVE''..… Expand
  9. DavidB.
    Nov 1, 2008
    9
    I'm an old gamer who started playing games in 1984 and few games have surprised me so well like Fallout 3. It has great graphics, a huge game world full of side quests that will entertain you for hundred hours, cinematic combat, good weapon choices, detailed scary monsters and much much more. But most of all, the gameplay immersion.... oh God, the immersion with this game is I'm an old gamer who started playing games in 1984 and few games have surprised me so well like Fallout 3. It has great graphics, a huge game world full of side quests that will entertain you for hundred hours, cinematic combat, good weapon choices, detailed scary monsters and much much more. But most of all, the gameplay immersion.... oh God, the immersion with this game is absolutely wonderful: the breathtakin' nuclear landscape of D.C., the sad '50s retro-music and the attention put on details are all amazing and makes you feel like you were really left alone wandering around in that raped postnuclear world. Even the sophisticated AI routines of the NPCs make them look alive and real. What more could you ask from a game? Nothing is my answer. I thank and bow to Bethesda team for this gorgeous game that will enter the videogame history for sure. Now come with me into the Wastelands.… Expand
  10. BobB.
    Nov 2, 2008
    10
    Holy heck, I'm surprised you guys gave it a low rating. I played Fallout 2, and personally I find Bethesda did a great job switching Fallout over to more action oriented. It is in fact different than Fall0out in multiple ways, but it's better to think the game as its own. Great graphics, achievements are there, role playing to boot. I have experienced no bugs other than having Holy heck, I'm surprised you guys gave it a low rating. I played Fallout 2, and personally I find Bethesda did a great job switching Fallout over to more action oriented. It is in fact different than Fall0out in multiple ways, but it's better to think the game as its own. Great graphics, achievements are there, role playing to boot. I have experienced no bugs other than having to turn of DotNet3.0 in control panel, and it runs incredibly smooth on my average comp (at least 40fps). I recommend this game to anyone who hasn't played fallout, i think bethesda targeted you for the game. However, if you are a fan of the old games, there is plenty enough in here, but remember, it's not the west coast in the game, things must be a little different.… Expand
  11. TS
    Oct 29, 2008
    10
    This game accomplished one of the goals I never thought it could: I felt like I was in the world of Fallout I and II. The atmosphere of the first few levels inside the vault was as expected, quirky and a time to learn how to play. Once outside I saw the same landscape you would expect to see in the first two games, but from a powerhouse FPS perspective. That's a compliment if anyone This game accomplished one of the goals I never thought it could: I felt like I was in the world of Fallout I and II. The atmosphere of the first few levels inside the vault was as expected, quirky and a time to learn how to play. Once outside I saw the same landscape you would expect to see in the first two games, but from a powerhouse FPS perspective. That's a compliment if anyone is wondering. Dogmeat makes a return appearance (as he did in Fallout 2) and the brotherhood of steel are still there, as are supermutants, ghouls, molerats, giant ants, ridiculously overpowered weapons like the nuclear catapult and rockitlauncher. While some might complain that the game feels a bit like Oblivion (there is something about how the texture work was done that shows Bethesda's fingerprints a bit too much) I would say that is nothing to complain about. The controls are tight and the rather well done VATS system (which makes every bullet a ballet) gives perfect moments of gore in the middle of frenzied firefights. My one qualm might be with the inclusion of housing and upgrades for housing which brought me out of the fantasy a bit. This forces you to sleep in beds to regain health rather than simply resting. The enemies do get a bit dull at lower difficulties too. The first time I saw a group of gangers fighting supermutants I was level 4 and remembered Fallout 2's rather difficult to kill supermutants. So I turned tail and ran like hell only to discover, much later on, that the green beasts are a bit of a push over. Same with Ghouls (who could be found in the second fallout as zombie-like enemies). I was frightened at first (a creature screaming and running at me without skin reminded me of Oblivion's rather hard to kill zombies) But then I blew its head off and kept going. For those who have fond memories of Fallouts of the past (and are not as obsessed as mr. SUX) this will feel like going home all grown up. For those who enjoyed Oblivion, enjoy the better story and firearms. For those looking for a good game, enjoy.… Expand
  12. JonathanS
    Oct 29, 2008
    10
    Amazing game that has managed to keep most of the elements from fallout that I loved. Only problems I've found is the inability to remap keys properly (some keys don't work, and defaults are kept despite changing them). I can explore seemingly endlessly and run into different tribes, factories, etc.
  13. DanQ.
    Nov 10, 2009
    10
    Absolutely amazing! Plays much more like Oblivion (drastically improved in every way, mind you) in a futuristic-setting rather than a true Fallout game, but it is an incredible experience nevertheless. I can't believe people are actually saying the graphics are mediocre. In my opinion, the graphics of this game are right up there with Crysis, Call of Duty: WAW, and whatever the Absolutely amazing! Plays much more like Oblivion (drastically improved in every way, mind you) in a futuristic-setting rather than a true Fallout game, but it is an incredible experience nevertheless. I can't believe people are actually saying the graphics are mediocre. In my opinion, the graphics of this game are right up there with Crysis, Call of Duty: WAW, and whatever the current standards for graphics are today. But unquestionably, it's the exquisite, open-ended gameplay that makes this game so memorable. A game for the ages!… Expand
  14. IanW
    Nov 10, 2009
    9
    I REALLY want to give this game 10 as I'm pretty sure that it's the best that I have ever played (X-Com being the other contender)! I was completely drawn into the game, its storyline and the whole environment and it genuinely felt like I had bought an awesome 40 hour film ... that I could take part in! Every single detail was addressed. I dont think I'm giving much away I REALLY want to give this game 10 as I'm pretty sure that it's the best that I have ever played (X-Com being the other contender)! I was completely drawn into the game, its storyline and the whole environment and it genuinely felt like I had bought an awesome 40 hour film ... that I could take part in! Every single detail was addressed. I dont think I'm giving much away when I say that hearing the radio presenter talk about what is going on in the world ... and then hearing him report something that you just did is awesome. Even more impressive was that he died (well, I killed him), and then a cleaner was left to try and take his place. Awesome little touch! However ... The game does crash and I actually created a condition that meant that it would always crash. However, given how utterly breathtaking the rest of the game is I can forgive it entirely. Also, anyone complaining about WFGL should just shut up. I'm guessing your using a pirated copy ...… Expand
  15. lucky
    Jan 12, 2009
    10
    This game is fantastic .the whole freedom thing is awesome .I had a crash in 15 hours of the gameplay.But that doesn't mean u give a 0 to such a good game.The graphics are good if not awesome . The music and sounds really well done. We should not miss a game like this.Simply the best game of 2008.
  16. ChaseF.
    Jan 2, 2009
    10
    This game is awesome. Thats the main word for it, awesome. The graphics are great, but no one really pays attention to that after a couple hours. The game has so much in it, and everything about it is fun. People are complaining about problems that i plain don't see. It'll quit out sometimes, big deal; that's what the auto save is for. Plus you could play the whole game This game is awesome. Thats the main word for it, awesome. The graphics are great, but no one really pays attention to that after a couple hours. The game has so much in it, and everything about it is fun. People are complaining about problems that i plain don't see. It'll quit out sometimes, big deal; that's what the auto save is for. Plus you could play the whole game over as the opposite karma and get a different storyline completely.… Expand
  17. William
    Jan 28, 2009
    10
    To those who think the game sucks because of crashing on your PC: get a friggin X-Box, or a better PC. You ineptitude should not reflect in your gamer rating. As for the game itself, this is probably the first RPG I have ever liked, mostly because it plays both as a shooter and as a quest-based role-player. The side quests, while not all linked or necessary, make the replay value of the To those who think the game sucks because of crashing on your PC: get a friggin X-Box, or a better PC. You ineptitude should not reflect in your gamer rating. As for the game itself, this is probably the first RPG I have ever liked, mostly because it plays both as a shooter and as a quest-based role-player. The side quests, while not all linked or necessary, make the replay value of the game huge, not to mention the customization.… Expand
  18. KirkC
    Jun 8, 2009
    10
    The game is vast, lanscapes changed all the time. Characters have a good standing with the rest of the game. The vault was once your home and now the rest of the wasteland is and will become. Although the game has various bugs which I experienced, including getting stuck in rocks, moving weird. Plus some others. Although being able to kill the same characters over and over again was The game is vast, lanscapes changed all the time. Characters have a good standing with the rest of the game. The vault was once your home and now the rest of the wasteland is and will become. Although the game has various bugs which I experienced, including getting stuck in rocks, moving weird. Plus some others. Although being able to kill the same characters over and over again was interesting. Further on in the game missions do become a bit tedious, but the game has unlimited potential. Overall; gameplay decent. Graphics awesome, sound great. Using a catapult nuke is the most amazing thing I have yet to see.… Expand
  19. Silentkiller
    Jul 3, 2009
    10
    This game is amazing. It deserves better than a 91. Everything about this game is amazing. The people who rate this a bad game are people who do not like RPG'S and/or live under a rock. If you loved or at least liked Oblivion this is a must buy!
  20. Tongs
    Jul 5, 2009
    9
    Overall, a great game. I struggled with a rating, but in the end went with a 9 because despite its flaws, it's really a very fun and addicting game that still keeps me coming back to play it. The main storyline isn't thrilling, but the numerous side quests and unmarked side activities hold the player's interest and are far more fun than the main quests. Tons of stuff to Overall, a great game. I struggled with a rating, but in the end went with a 9 because despite its flaws, it's really a very fun and addicting game that still keeps me coming back to play it. The main storyline isn't thrilling, but the numerous side quests and unmarked side activities hold the player's interest and are far more fun than the main quests. Tons of stuff to find and explore, lots of situations to deal with. The game's problems are significant, though, and this is where rating it is difficult. The graphics are pretty good on the highest settings, but I've noticed that it slows down computers (sometimes even the consoles) more than it ever should. A machine that runs Far Cry 2 flawlessly will still have trouble with F3 from time to time. Lots of oversights; floating objects/debris piles/buildings/etc. Many bugs and glitches that are potentially game-breaking. Character animations needed some work, and I did not like the built-in inaccuracy of the weapons. The fact that I still give it a 9 out of 10 shows that I think the gameplay is solid, and the game, at its core, is a great one.… Expand
  21. RasmusE.
    Jul 5, 2009
    10
    Word's cant describe how much fun I've had with Falout 3. At the very moment i sav it was 75% Off i had to buy it! I didn't regret the buy as I've done with so many other games because right now I've spent more than 50 Hours playing and Exploring Washington DC and its surroundings.
  22. Dom
    Jul 6, 2009
    10
    Excellent game. It brings the amazing features and qualities Bethesda brought with Oblivion, and melds them with the Fallout world. This game is tons of fun to play, and has a great story.
  23. MattiD
    Sep 7, 2009
    9
    As a fan of the fallout series, I really enjoyed this game. Despite the vastness of the landscape the surroundings still has a handcrafted touch - the world is full of small details, hidden caches and interesting locations to discover. What finally won me over, however, was the dialogue and plot content - finally a computer rpg that in some how resembles actual pen-and-paper rpg:s! Quests As a fan of the fallout series, I really enjoyed this game. Despite the vastness of the landscape the surroundings still has a handcrafted touch - the world is full of small details, hidden caches and interesting locations to discover. What finally won me over, however, was the dialogue and plot content - finally a computer rpg that in some how resembles actual pen-and-paper rpg:s! Quests that are unique and consist of more than the usual "kill 100 monsters", "find item x" or "deliver a message to npc y" -stuff. To sum it up, the game looks fine, dialogue is good, skills are useful and going up levels is fun since all skills are equally useful.… Expand
  24. DaveO
    Jan 1, 2010
    10
    This is one of the most imaginative games I've played in my 15 years of playing computer games.While I was disappointed by some of the limits of the features in the game, it didn't really compare to the amount of GOOD that was in the game.
  25. VidM.
    Nov 12, 2008
    8
    Great game! Exceeded my expectations, which were damned high considering the countless times I played through the original games, loving every minute of it. Bethesda did a good job of mixing Fallout with what they do best in Elder Scrolls. Nice attention to detail and making good on the little things. Some broken quests and quirky graphical flaws keep an otherwise great game from being a Great game! Exceeded my expectations, which were damned high considering the countless times I played through the original games, loving every minute of it. Bethesda did a good job of mixing Fallout with what they do best in Elder Scrolls. Nice attention to detail and making good on the little things. Some broken quests and quirky graphical flaws keep an otherwise great game from being a perfect masterpiece. Another gripe is the needless watering down of the Fallout character building system. Tagging skills no longer spurs growth in those skills (no more two-for-one point-buy while under 100). Also, skills can no longer exceed 100, even though 100 does not guarantee success for any skill. However, the game is more accessible now that it stands up as a full-blown FPS, as well as an RPG with flavorings of survival horror at lower levels (no follower, no ammo, braving the ghoul-infested metro tunnels with a flashlight).… Expand
  26. P.Sh.
    Nov 12, 2008
    10
    This game is almost better than part 2 of the Franchise. I say "almost", because it tries to send a message and doesn't quite succeed. The ending is as linear as that of Fallout 2, only more visually impressive and a dozen times worse. The lack of post-game gameplay is disappointing, considering this is a Bethesda game, and the lack of a narrated epilogue detailing the future of the This game is almost better than part 2 of the Franchise. I say "almost", because it tries to send a message and doesn't quite succeed. The ending is as linear as that of Fallout 2, only more visually impressive and a dozen times worse. The lack of post-game gameplay is disappointing, considering this is a Bethesda game, and the lack of a narrated epilogue detailing the future of the setting is disapointing, considering this is a Fallout game.… Expand
  27. RalphW.
    Nov 2, 2008
    9
    I love it. I feel like I am wandering a post apocalyptic world. It is great. Oodles of atmosphere and just all around great game. However, I find the UI annoying. why press e, x, or tab to get out of different dialogs? Why not use a single key for all? Why do I have to scroll down to select "I have finished talking" why can't I just press escape of x or whatever?
  28. NicholasG.
    Nov 2, 2008
    10
    Bethesda has crafted one of the best role playing games ever with Fallout 3. The gameplay is refined, the open world is incredibly detailed and great to look at, and the moral choices and multiple paths may send many gamers through multiple playthroughs to experience everything. In short, this is one of the best games to be released this year and should not be missed by any action, rpg, Bethesda has crafted one of the best role playing games ever with Fallout 3. The gameplay is refined, the open world is incredibly detailed and great to look at, and the moral choices and multiple paths may send many gamers through multiple playthroughs to experience everything. In short, this is one of the best games to be released this year and should not be missed by any action, rpg, or adventure gaming fan. It's an experience not to be missed.… Expand
  29. SlawekG
    Nov 21, 2008
    10
    Aside from some minor bugs - game is brilliant - you can feel the wasteland. Short main story but in old Fallouts you could finish it even faster then here - it backs it up with vast amount of side quests and locations you can visit. RPG of the year for me - maybe even game of the year we shall see.
  30. JackR
    Nov 2, 2008
    9
    This is an extremely good game. I did not like Oblivion for various reasons, but this game does away with most of what annoyed me in Oblivion (the bad combat system etc.). This game is a great First Person Shooter, but it has a lot of depth too. Under the surface, it's an RPG, so although the combat is as fun and visceral as an FPS, it is a lot less shallow because the game requires This is an extremely good game. I did not like Oblivion for various reasons, but this game does away with most of what annoyed me in Oblivion (the bad combat system etc.). This game is a great First Person Shooter, but it has a lot of depth too. Under the surface, it's an RPG, so although the combat is as fun and visceral as an FPS, it is a lot less shallow because the game requires a lot more thought and care. You have to explore, pick the character traits that best suit your style of play, you have to build up your character's weapons and armour, and there is a real story with lots of real characters. So to me it's the best of both worlds. RPG's have depth but poor combat, and FPS's have good combat but are shallow. This game has the best of both worlds with great combat and lots of depth. It's just a fantastic game. I am constantly reminded of the magnificent System Shock games, and that is no small feat.… Expand
  31. JG
    Nov 2, 2008
    10
    A lot of whining over 'it isn't fallout!' Grow up. I see a lot of zero's from people who haven't played the game. Also, grow up. Game's solid, plays well, story so far has been good, voice actings good. It's similar to Bethesda's other games, but it's what you'd expect, with a few good surprises on top. Get over yourselves.
  32. AndrewW
    Nov 2, 2008
    10
    While, its not perfect, this is probably the best game I will play all year. As for the people giving it low scores, they can't seem to get over the fact that the fallout franchise is being made by a new company. This game is worth your money. I played for about 10 hours and then restarted to build a better, stronger character once I had learned the ropes and am now looking at over a While, its not perfect, this is probably the best game I will play all year. As for the people giving it low scores, they can't seem to get over the fact that the fallout franchise is being made by a new company. This game is worth your money. I played for about 10 hours and then restarted to build a better, stronger character once I had learned the ropes and am now looking at over a hundred hours of gameplay. Yes, it is similar to oblivion, but it is made with the same engine so their are going to be similarities. The dialogue is great, even if some of the voice actors are not. Final verdict, get this game.… Expand
  33. JosephP.
    Nov 24, 2008
    10
    Brilliant game, the stories and quests stand up to the classics, and the game has enough changes to keep it interesting. All the skills count for something, and each play through with different tagged skills is a new challenge.
  34. KS
    Nov 25, 2008
    9
    A fantastic RPG. While the plot is a bit on the short side, any user with common sense and a sense of adventure will be able to happily occupy plenty of time with all the side quests and places to explore. Not to mention fooling around with reacting to the quests in different ways. Great world, good continuation to the Fallout series, but it's certainly not the originals.
  35. RyanD.
    Nov 28, 2008
    10
    If I could sum up this game in one sentence, it would be this: Fallout 3 is incredibly fun and even a month later I am finding new stuff to do in the game! To be honest I have not played Fallout 1 and 2. Not yet anyways since I am about to buy them online. But I want to say this to the hardcore FO 1 and 2 fans: if you wanted Fallout 1/2 then go back to playing 1 and 2. Face it, the If I could sum up this game in one sentence, it would be this: Fallout 3 is incredibly fun and even a month later I am finding new stuff to do in the game! To be honest I have not played Fallout 1 and 2. Not yet anyways since I am about to buy them online. But I want to say this to the hardcore FO 1 and 2 fans: if you wanted Fallout 1/2 then go back to playing 1 and 2. Face it, the isometrical perspective in RPGs is old. Zelda on the NES old! Try and appreciate what the game is, not what the game isn't. OK? No? Then cry some more would you kindly? My conclusion with Fallout 3: No gamer should miss it and they have absolutely no reason to do so!… Expand
  36. Mozg
    Nov 3, 2008
    9
    Fallout 3 is a true masterpiece of PC gaming and probably the best RPG since Oblivion. Yes, I played F1 and F2, and yes I love the Elder Scrolls series. Somebody tries to compare Mass Effect with F3. ME does not deliver even a shred of RPG experience you get with F3. This game deserves all the money the developer asks for it. And considering the poor state of PC gaming industry today Fallout 3 is a true masterpiece of PC gaming and probably the best RPG since Oblivion. Yes, I played F1 and F2, and yes I love the Elder Scrolls series. Somebody tries to compare Mass Effect with F3. ME does not deliver even a shred of RPG experience you get with F3. This game deserves all the money the developer asks for it. And considering the poor state of PC gaming industry today (i.e. a tidal wave of ultra-low quality PC games that flooded the market in the recent years) it deserves it even more. And yes it uses the Securom rootkit spyware. So the score is 9 instead of 10.… Expand
  37. JorgeR.
    Nov 3, 2008
    10
    Overall an amazing work. The world begs to be explored and there are many mysteries to unearth. The character progression system is easily learned and quite fun, yet also has a level of depth allowing for countless types of characters and strategies. The dialogue and story draw you into the world well. Praise is also given for the scalability of the engine. I am playing it on a budget Overall an amazing work. The world begs to be explored and there are many mysteries to unearth. The character progression system is easily learned and quite fun, yet also has a level of depth allowing for countless types of characters and strategies. The dialogue and story draw you into the world well. Praise is also given for the scalability of the engine. I am playing it on a budget laptop with an AMD Turion 2.0 GHz Dual Core Processor and ATI 3100 Integrated Graphics. On that system I have Fallout 3 running at 800x600 with low/medium details and HDR Lighting activated. The framerate is smooth and the game looks amazing. Watching the post apocalyptic sunrise on a balcony in Megaton is a sight to behold. Wandering dead and broken highways, strolling through ghost towns and empty shells of cities is engrossing. It truly feels like exploring the remnants of civilization. The action that is mingled with the exploration is also top notch. The V.A.T.S. targeting system adds more tactics to encounters and is a joy to use. That's not to say that you're forced to it, regular first person combat works swimmingly as well and mixing the two is great fun. I highly recommend this game!… Expand
  38. MatthewB.
    Nov 4, 2008
    10
    A truly great game, where you feel there's always something new lurking round the next pile of nuked rubble. It takes out a lot of the more fussy aspects of Oblivion, and adds some innovative features like the VATS targeting system.
  39. EricM
    Nov 4, 2008
    9
    I will say this right off the bat: I have not played any of the original Fallouts so I do not know how this game measures up to them. Also, I am primarily a FPS gamer, not an RPG gamer. With that said, Fallout 3 is a genuinely fun and entertaining game. The detail of the Fallout world is amazing and the weapon selection is awesome. However, the game does lose a point for poor physics and I will say this right off the bat: I have not played any of the original Fallouts so I do not know how this game measures up to them. Also, I am primarily a FPS gamer, not an RPG gamer. With that said, Fallout 3 is a genuinely fun and entertaining game. The detail of the Fallout world is amazing and the weapon selection is awesome. However, the game does lose a point for poor physics and the way it seems to chug along at random points. However, I am accustomed to Valve games where the physics and smoothness are incredibly fluid. Anyway, overall: worth the $50. Not even close to finished and I feel like I got my money's worth.… Expand
  40. JexterD
    Nov 5, 2008
    9
    A great game by it's own standards. Albeit I am a fan of old Fallout series, I also liked this game. After playing a game like this, I just do not see how people will even want to play a linear FPS. Fallout 3 is a game that definitely was worth the wait, but like with all great titles there are some small things that could have been done in a better manner. However, this is a great A great game by it's own standards. Albeit I am a fan of old Fallout series, I also liked this game. After playing a game like this, I just do not see how people will even want to play a linear FPS. Fallout 3 is a game that definitely was worth the wait, but like with all great titles there are some small things that could have been done in a better manner. However, this is a great title for those who prefer sandbox type of games over the linear overdose we seem to be getting these days.… Expand
  41. MichaelR
    Nov 8, 2008
    10
    I loved Fallout 2, but I love Fallout 3 more. Fallout 3 is damn near perfect. I bought it with a sceptical mind, and within a few hours the game convinced me that it was a work of genius. I could write a long review why it's excellent, so all I will 'say' are these words: brilliant, detailed world; mature content; great quests; great graphics; wonderful atmosphere; I loved Fallout 2, but I love Fallout 3 more. Fallout 3 is damn near perfect. I bought it with a sceptical mind, and within a few hours the game convinced me that it was a work of genius. I could write a long review why it's excellent, so all I will 'say' are these words: brilliant, detailed world; mature content; great quests; great graphics; wonderful atmosphere; imaginative enemies and monsters; great story and writing . . . . Buy it . . . you will not be disappointed.… Expand
  42. MatthewN.
    Nov 9, 2008
    10
    Game follows very closely to Fallout 1 and Fallout 2. Very pleased with visuals as well as great voice acting. Immersive game play that brings back old and creates new memories of great gaming under the fallout name.
  43. CPtlWhen
    Dec 22, 2008
    9
    This game can range from a 0-10 depending how you play it, so for example if you put it, not paying any attention to the story line just running around gunning people down, you most properly wont enjoy it, but if you have say a free week at least, lock your self inside your room, put in Fallout 3, grab all the food you need then...go, This game will not be enjoyed where you are This game can range from a 0-10 depending how you play it, so for example if you put it, not paying any attention to the story line just running around gunning people down, you most properly wont enjoy it, but if you have say a free week at least, lock your self inside your room, put in Fallout 3, grab all the food you need then...go, This game will not be enjoyed where you are distracted, you need to be paying attention to play this game.… Expand
  44. PaddyG.
    Dec 5, 2008
    9
    A very immersive game, even if not all features, items and game mechanics that were present in previous incarnations have made it into this one, making it a bit less S.P.E.C.I.A.L. Played about 20hrs (on normal difficulty) and got about half the map uncovered (without actually exploring a good part of the locations yet) and it still sucks me in every time I start the game. Graphics are A very immersive game, even if not all features, items and game mechanics that were present in previous incarnations have made it into this one, making it a bit less S.P.E.C.I.A.L. Played about 20hrs (on normal difficulty) and got about half the map uncovered (without actually exploring a good part of the locations yet) and it still sucks me in every time I start the game. Graphics are adequate to nice, the inventory system works rather well even if it's classical fallout style (with a bit of console flair) and not as fast as most MMORPG's. Sound effects are very well implemented IMO, with gun shots/salvos being very loud and boomy, while even small noises can be heard when sneaking through the wasteland and tunnels. Dialogues are done by seemingly pro speakers, if a bit dull/sterile at times. Quests are plentiful and make sense most of the time, even if some are a bit dull. A bit more of the classical Fallout humour would help, especially since the 3D makes the game intense at times. Put all together a very good game with a huge playing time, high replay value and hopefully a few nice extensions for later. If you don't get it now be sure to grab the GameOfTheYear/Gold/Budget or whatever edition will come out eventually. And sorry for those folks who have problems in running the game. Thankfully I only got random crashes once every 10 hours or so. And my machine is a tad old and rusty anyway and some other games crash too. GL and fingers crossed.… Expand
  45. ChuckL.
    Dec 6, 2008
    10
    Wow! This game is totally awesome! Selecting your sex, your Look, and first missions when you are a baby. Fixing guns, armor accessories and other stuff. And details of world and effects are amazing! THANK YOU FALLOUT3 team! :3
  46. RobertB.
    Dec 6, 2008
    8
    The good: Immersive atmosphere, good graphics, large game world, interesting lore, good compromise between action/RPG elements. ........ The bad: Terrible AI (you can literally blow an enemy's head off while he's mid-conversation with one of his friends, and his friend will just casually walk away), mediocre stock user interface, poorly-written and implemented main story, The good: Immersive atmosphere, good graphics, large game world, interesting lore, good compromise between action/RPG elements. ........ The bad: Terrible AI (you can literally blow an enemy's head off while he's mid-conversation with one of his friends, and his friend will just casually walk away), mediocre stock user interface, poorly-written and implemented main story, repetitive game-play with few well-crafted encounters, unbalanced game mechanics, numerous glitches and quirks. ..... Redeeming factor: The GECK (construction kit) will be released soon, and user mods will vastly improve most facets of the game.… Expand
  47. Maou
    Oct 28, 2008
    10
    Amazing game, has it's flaws but really is a work of art. I can't put it down. I'm sure there are some inconsistencies but I'm having FUN and not going to nit pick. To me it's not oblivion with guns, other than an enhanced engine, the story, leveling, lore, environment is completely different. As for being all one color? it's called a wasteland (and it's Amazing game, has it's flaws but really is a work of art. I can't put it down. I'm sure there are some inconsistencies but I'm having FUN and not going to nit pick. To me it's not oblivion with guns, other than an enhanced engine, the story, leveling, lore, environment is completely different. As for being all one color? it's called a wasteland (and it's not really 1 color), not sure what people expect, there's not going to be a flowery romp in the country side.… Expand
  48. RockandRoll
    Oct 29, 2008
    10
    Look, I loved the original Fallout games too. However, this game exceeded my expectations completely. I loved this game, and I believe that the effort that went into this game is what makes it good. Sure, it's not by Black Isle and sure there are a few bugs, but that is no reason to give it a terrible rating. Everyone has their own opinion. You cannot say a games sucks if there are Look, I loved the original Fallout games too. However, this game exceeded my expectations completely. I loved this game, and I believe that the effort that went into this game is what makes it good. Sure, it's not by Black Isle and sure there are a few bugs, but that is no reason to give it a terrible rating. Everyone has their own opinion. You cannot say a games sucks if there are many people who find it enjoyable, you may hate it but someone else will love it. Now Turok... THOSE were bad.… Expand
  49. HeinN.
    Oct 29, 2008
    9
    Personal preference
  50. DreimarOctane
    Oct 29, 2008
    9
    Very good game so far, ingenious tutorial system. I am someone who very much enjoyed Elder Scrolls: Oblivion, so I have no problem with Fallout 3. The characters and story are very engaging and interesting.
  51. Hallo
    Jan 18, 2009
    8
    First off, I'd like to commend Bethesda for attempting a tutorial and would like to apologize for those who play their games who haven't the lick of sense. While the tutorial does, indeed, suck... there is an invention called the "internet" full of wikia's with plenty of information. While the baby book is cute, for someone who has never played the game... it's rather First off, I'd like to commend Bethesda for attempting a tutorial and would like to apologize for those who play their games who haven't the lick of sense. While the tutorial does, indeed, suck... there is an invention called the "internet" full of wikia's with plenty of information. While the baby book is cute, for someone who has never played the game... it's rather uninformative (the standard point distribution screen being more informative). Unfortunatly, stat ballancing is little more than that, only END and INT seem to offer major skill bonus' (and both have a large return [health, skill points, rad resistance]). W/E... the point is I feel like I'm picking out which stats matter over which just... suck. Combat can be clunky... V.A.T.S is borring... blah blah... but most relivant is that the game hardly "feels" alive. True, the world was devistated by a series of nuclear explosions (that did not detonate the nuclear cars lying around (nor destroy anything... atleast nothing that 200 years of disrepair couldn't account for)... nore could I care for pumping the greyscale... brownscale is soo much better than dulling the color.... What I'm trying to point to is that the environment neither frighten's me nore feels to be true to the story (the feeling is a little more like desolation... as if everyone just left the city... although the game is already absurdly high in it, the "environment" needs more bodies. Not those empailed bodies... but like a family huddeling together right before they get fosilized, people having built their own makeshift "fallout shelters"... fallout 3 has a map... but its world has no questions... it has no beauty... it just is and some few things happen in it. infact, I am througly confused as to why there are signs pointing to megaton for people leaving vault 101 (thats not a question, thats a "this doesn't fit into the idea of the world") I'll end by stating that twitch play is how the game should be. If you focus on combat you don't want turn based unless you're using tactics... twitch play keeps nerves up... I've never much approved of games that made combat last several min against 1-2 foes... it often feels more like the AI is cheating than anything. But I would suppose that the PC will get stronger yet so... we'll see. However, regardless on PC strength... the ability to shoot up... left and right... is beyond stupid. These "drugs" that junkies use to get high are used by the PC to aid in combat... and with no penitally with how many you carry or how many you use at once... worse are stim packs which might be essential when continuously fighting, sort of kill the experience by allowing one to horde enough to resurect the dead city. But W/E an okay game... thats what matters I guess.… Expand
  52. zachc.
    Jan 2, 2009
    10
    ingnore the firt reiw becase i played it on the pc and it was fine. the game is perffect. vats is a great new toll of game play. the diloge is intreasting and fast pace. the only way the game could get buggy is if you played it on a unrecomed system and have a old comuter. but with uptodate were the gam act fine and not as buggy has the firt blog had said.
  53. JordanR
    Dec 21, 2009
    10
    I know this game has been out for a long time, but I just wanted to see what it got. I saw someone who said they played it for thirty minutes, then got bored and stopped playing. I know a lot of people like that person. They start playing Fallout 3, and don't like it, but a lot of the time, if you keep playing, you like it. I love the game. It is awesome. I've played it and all I know this game has been out for a long time, but I just wanted to see what it got. I saw someone who said they played it for thirty minutes, then got bored and stopped playing. I know a lot of people like that person. They start playing Fallout 3, and don't like it, but a lot of the time, if you keep playing, you like it. I love the game. It is awesome. I've played it and all the DLC's. I've beaten it five times.… Expand
  54. Curtis
    Jan 7, 2009
    10
    Honestly, it's been a while since I've played a game this good. You may be reading about "this game is so glitchy!" or "there are so many bugs!," but honestly, they don't bug me. I run the game on a modest computer at best, playing just barely on medium graphic settings and I really don't have any problems. The only thing that happens is after I go to place after Honestly, it's been a while since I've played a game this good. You may be reading about "this game is so glitchy!" or "there are so many bugs!," but honestly, they don't bug me. I run the game on a modest computer at best, playing just barely on medium graphic settings and I really don't have any problems. The only thing that happens is after I go to place after place, or go to an area where I see a vast area of Wasteland, the game slows down and the sound starts poping, but I believe this to be a computer problem as it has to load a heaping amount of things or remember a heaping amount of things, but in those situations all I do is exit the game and come back in and I'm fine. Now to the games details. The game starts out slow as it is just your life growing up in the vault, but once you get into the wasteland, your thrust into an open end game that lets you do whatever you damn please. This allows for limitless game play as you can help or hurt the random people you find. The main storyline could be longer, but with all the side quest and random monsters, it really does not matter after a while. Plus, the humor and irony in the game is pretty amusing. All in all, this is a game I would recommend for anyone and everyone, as long as you have something that can run it.… Expand
  55. EdM.
    Jan 8, 2009
    10
    This game is totally immersive. I'm (maybe) half way thru the game and am already looking forward to replaying at the difficult settings. Have played for around 80-100 hours and had the game lock up once or twice, so glitches are probably due more to inadequate hardware - I have a 9800 GTS and it runs well. VATS system ands alot to the shooting experience, the quests are often This game is totally immersive. I'm (maybe) half way thru the game and am already looking forward to replaying at the difficult settings. Have played for around 80-100 hours and had the game lock up once or twice, so glitches are probably due more to inadequate hardware - I have a 9800 GTS and it runs well. VATS system ands alot to the shooting experience, the quests are often challenging, and there alot of high-intensity situations.… Expand
  56. SteveL.
    Feb 11, 2009
    10
    I love this game.
  57. MattS.
    Apr 13, 2009
    10
    As a fan of the two "real" previous installments of Fallout 1 and 2, I can say that although Fallout 3 takes a turn away from some of the key fundamentals of the first two, i.e. turn based combat, overhead view, dark humor, self humor, etc; the new dynamics of Fallout 3 make you forget about whats missing from the old Fallout games with its breath taking graphics, a fun new combat system, As a fan of the two "real" previous installments of Fallout 1 and 2, I can say that although Fallout 3 takes a turn away from some of the key fundamentals of the first two, i.e. turn based combat, overhead view, dark humor, self humor, etc; the new dynamics of Fallout 3 make you forget about whats missing from the old Fallout games with its breath taking graphics, a fun new combat system, extensive landscape and open-endedness, and a relatively decent storyline. Also...come on...it's FALLOUT 3!!!!!… Expand
  58. JesseC
    Apr 18, 2009
    10
    The Game it's self is Fantastic, there is only a few things that need to be fix or need to be more realistic. But besides that. It's the best game I've ever played besides Fallout: Tactics.
  59. J.L
    Apr 21, 2009
    10
    I cant believe the ratings some people have given this game. I think its one of the best games I've played (I have Lots of games) Sure the Main story line is a little short but there is lots of sidequests to, if you was to do them ALL it would raise the playing hours to at least 70 hours. Also they is so many ways of doing the quests and so many different outcomes. The Graphics are I cant believe the ratings some people have given this game. I think its one of the best games I've played (I have Lots of games) Sure the Main story line is a little short but there is lots of sidequests to, if you was to do them ALL it would raise the playing hours to at least 70 hours. Also they is so many ways of doing the quests and so many different outcomes. The Graphics are very good, runs smoothly and to say how big the game is it loads really fast (around 3 or 4 seconds to load a new game) Over all Superb game, Well worth the money And anyone who says different is just well you know.… Expand
  60. MathewN
    May 22, 2009
    10
    This game was one of the best games i have ever played, i will say that the main story was to short and that the side quests were a little boring but the fact that so many random things happened it kept the game new, Like the UFO for example. I love open games where it lats the player act as they would in a situation like this. The new expansions coming out are going to be a lot of fun. This game was one of the best games i have ever played, i will say that the main story was to short and that the side quests were a little boring but the fact that so many random things happened it kept the game new, Like the UFO for example. I love open games where it lats the player act as they would in a situation like this. The new expansions coming out are going to be a lot of fun. The Pitt, and Broken Steel showed a lot of newer elements and ideas i'm just sad that The Pitt ended so shortly, and how Broken steel was just to hard, But in the long run i am proud to have played this game and i am looking forward to more expansions and more material. Keep the Good stuff coming Bethesda!… Expand
  61. OlavB
    Jun 16, 2009
    10
    This is one of my favorite games that I have and It is the greatest game that Bethesta has made since Terminator SKYNET.
  62. kulu1900
    Jun 23, 2009
    9
    Fallout 3 is a epic sequal to fallout 2 and 3 but i gave it a 9 instead of a 10 because the wateland in the first 2 games looks like a desart and that the creators insearted their own componay into the game (its south of scrappyard) the game could be very easy or very hard, depending on the diffulcty and your progress into the game (mutch like oblivion).
  63. |CA|Gir
    Jul 15, 2009
    10
    This game is one of the best role-play games I have ever played. The role-play part doesn't interfere with the story line, which I found very nice. The weapons are very realistic because they can get f=damaged and that causes them to do less damage. The NPC AI isn't as bad as some say. So they make a wrong turn, or don't listen to you, or walk into a rock. So what. No AI is This game is one of the best role-play games I have ever played. The role-play part doesn't interfere with the story line, which I found very nice. The weapons are very realistic because they can get f=damaged and that causes them to do less damage. The NPC AI isn't as bad as some say. So they make a wrong turn, or don't listen to you, or walk into a rock. So what. No AI is perfect. Another part of this game is you can customize the color of your Pip-Boy and your HUD. And a nice part about the role-play is that you can be good or evil. And even if your evil, you can still become good. The karma system is very cool. The karma even effects how people like you in the game. I can't think of anything else. Best game ever.… Expand
  64. MadisonL.
    Jul 2, 2009
    10
    this is about as good as a awesomely modded Oblivion can get. my rig is probably more of a decepticon than a gaming rig, but i was still able to maximize the graphical settings with minimal AA and still get playable frames on my celeron. this score comes with consideration of the available user-made mods out there, and there are some pretty neat one that really appealed to me, that on top this is about as good as a awesomely modded Oblivion can get. my rig is probably more of a decepticon than a gaming rig, but i was still able to maximize the graphical settings with minimal AA and still get playable frames on my celeron. this score comes with consideration of the available user-made mods out there, and there are some pretty neat one that really appealed to me, that on top of the fact that there are DLCs released regularly, this one is definitely worth your dollar. However, like oblivion, tougher enemies toward the late game wouldn't hurt.… Expand
  65. AndrewL
    Jul 8, 2009
    9
    It gets off to a slow start but Fallout 3 really pays off. Once you've escaped Vault 101 you feel the impact of the nuclear war and the game doesn't stop reminding you. Sadly for a 3rd-Generation game the graphics aren't up to scratch. While visually its absolutely stunning, the body movements of AI's is hideous and it becomes a mess when several of them come up to the It gets off to a slow start but Fallout 3 really pays off. Once you've escaped Vault 101 you feel the impact of the nuclear war and the game doesn't stop reminding you. Sadly for a 3rd-Generation game the graphics aren't up to scratch. While visually its absolutely stunning, the body movements of AI's is hideous and it becomes a mess when several of them come up to the screen and start waving around infront of you. VATS (slow motion cinematic attacks) will definitely miss when this happens and usually when your cornered you're reduced to your melee. Though its not like you happily switch to your melee weapon, this happens after you've wasted your EXTREMELY PRECIOUS ammo, which the game doesn't give nearly enough of. Other than those flaws, that are often found with nitpicking, the game lives to standards of an amazing (hybrid) First and Third Person Shooter RPG. Although, while the Third Person option is available, it's far too poorly constructed. The crosshair is much too small in the first place, and when your character runs on a diagonal axis it looks like they are floating (honestly, you can't play without moving diagonally). You can fix this by zooming in close enough and only showing from north of your characters belt. It work's perfectly - shame though that PS3 and X360 couldnt do this, PC version reigns supreme for this feature. Again, minor things that don't exactly affect gameplay. It makes up for this with a gripping storyline, that never seemed to end. There are countless side quests if you don't mind exploring the map, which you probably won't. Excavation of random shopping malls, mines and silo's is as exciting as can be, finding new guns and new threads. The game is very very addictive and every gamer should own it.… Expand
  66. DavidT
    Aug 25, 2009
    9
    I'm one of those who has been with this franchise from the start and i have to say I'm very impressed. The combat seemlessly stitches real time and vats together, the game has a ton of different options for every situation, the atmosphere is great and characters fit in very well. Sadly, fallout 3 still has a few problems. As most people know, the game can be very buggy at times I'm one of those who has been with this franchise from the start and i have to say I'm very impressed. The combat seemlessly stitches real time and vats together, the game has a ton of different options for every situation, the atmosphere is great and characters fit in very well. Sadly, fallout 3 still has a few problems. As most people know, the game can be very buggy at times and there are parts of the game where i feel that it falls short of the awesomeness that is fallout 1 and 2, such as areas that seem to have just been placed there for no particular reason and nothing to do with anything. Also, the main storyline is short and sadly close to dull. It is as if they put more work in the side quests, which they're aren't enough of. even with all the cons, i would still say the pros pull through enough that you still thoroughly enjoy the game.… Expand
  67. MikeW.
    Nov 10, 2008
    10
    This game is great, I'm having a very enjoyable experience here. I don't think its perfect, more a 9 than a 10, but like others here I'm trying to balance out the moron PC fanboys that are pissed that the console playing population can experience their beloved and coveted fallout. Get a life, guys. Its not like the game is *your* private intellectual propery. Probably take This game is great, I'm having a very enjoyable experience here. I don't think its perfect, more a 9 than a 10, but like others here I'm trying to balance out the moron PC fanboys that are pissed that the console playing population can experience their beloved and coveted fallout. Get a life, guys. Its not like the game is *your* private intellectual propery. Probably take this more seriously than the black isle programmers. As to following the old series, I think this is pretty well in line, as many difference could be account for by the fact that it takes place on the east coast, instead of in Cali. which is where Fallout 1 and Fallout 2 took place. That does eliminate the whole tribal component, but hey, we get bombed out metro stations and downtown DC. I mean the geographic scale is much better than, say, Fallout 2. I mean New Reno was like 2 screens, teeny tiny... Reno is huge. At least they made an attempt to represent what a *city* looks like. people giving this less than a 6 are not being honest about gameplay and are instead voting on... some peripheral reason (e.g. pc turfwar pissing fight, angry nostalgia, comparison to obliv., politics of game studios etc.) The one notable exception is people having stability issues, which have been minimal in my game time. Note to others on metacritic: This scoreboard is here to rate the FREAKING GAME; not the studio, not the franchise, not games related to it, not the platform you play it on. Why is that so hard? Everyone's an expert on writing game code, apparently, and expects the programmers to fulfill their wildest dreams for 50 bucks. Puh-lease... its a f*cking game, relax a little. This mentality is exactly why people interested in computing and related sciences got such a bad reputation. You angry fan-boys are social cripples.… Expand
  68. MiKE
    Nov 12, 2008
    10
    DO NOT BUY THIS GAME! You will be addicted, hooked! The game is simply amazing, once you start playing it, you will not want to stop! I played the PS3 first and I was impressed, and now I am playing the PC version and you just can't compare the two! The PC version is alot better, the graphics are crisp, the animation are better, and the controls feel like this game was made for the PC.
  69. PatrickM.
    Nov 1, 2008
    10
    This game is simply amazing, from the gorgeous graphics, to the all out action. Not to mrtion the voice acting is pretty amazing too. This game is non-stop fun. One of my favorite things about the game is the V.A.T.S. targeting system. Overall this is one of the best games I've ever played.
  70. JasonH.
    Nov 12, 2008
    9
    Alright, I won't commit and say it's the best game of all time, but i will say I've spent the last couple of weeks locked away focused on not much else. I've gone back and tried to play the old FOs out of nostalgia, but let's face it; its not 1998 anymore. I've seen a lot of criticism of FO3's similiarity to Oblivion (which, in my opinion was a selling Alright, I won't commit and say it's the best game of all time, but i will say I've spent the last couple of weeks locked away focused on not much else. I've gone back and tried to play the old FOs out of nostalgia, but let's face it; its not 1998 anymore. I've seen a lot of criticism of FO3's similiarity to Oblivion (which, in my opinion was a selling point) calling it a imitator. But would these fans have been satisfied with a top down isometric view at 5 fps which is how it was done for three installments running? I don't think its fair to rate a game based on how "good" its prequels were anyway. If Fallouts 1 and 2 never existed would this have been a good game? I say emphatically YES.… Expand
  71. PaulS
    Nov 12, 2008
    9
    Don't listen to all the whiners giving this game a 2. I played and enjoyed Fallout2. However, I knew this could never be like that. That game style is gone from developers. Bestheda has done quite a good job incorporating all the other areas that made Fallout good and put it into a modified FPS. I enjoy using VATS as well as the run and gun method. So far the story, sandbox world, Don't listen to all the whiners giving this game a 2. I played and enjoyed Fallout2. However, I knew this could never be like that. That game style is gone from developers. Bestheda has done quite a good job incorporating all the other areas that made Fallout good and put it into a modified FPS. I enjoy using VATS as well as the run and gun method. So far the story, sandbox world, characters, etc all are quite good. Not perfect, but real enough for me to get lost in the story. If you enjoyed the old series, and are okay with it not being a true RPG, take the plunge.… Expand
  72. RobG.
    Nov 12, 2008
    9
    I was in love with the fallout franchise from the moment I began playing the original in '98, and Fallout 3 - for me at least - manages to hit all the same buttons. Beautiful, funny, fantastic and the most atmospheric game I've ever seen. The only criticism I could possibly level at it is that the game world is a little bit busy and would be better if it were a bit bleaker.
  73. Chris
    Nov 12, 2008
    9
    This is truly a tribute to Fallout, not a direct sequel. The story is ok, but (and i hate to compare to Oblivion) unlike Oblivion where scope and epic scale was the goal, Fallout 3's goal seems to be depth. Each side quest, as few as there are, are well thought out, alter the ending, and have multiple ways through them. The graphics are a SMALL, and I mean small, improvement over This is truly a tribute to Fallout, not a direct sequel. The story is ok, but (and i hate to compare to Oblivion) unlike Oblivion where scope and epic scale was the goal, Fallout 3's goal seems to be depth. Each side quest, as few as there are, are well thought out, alter the ending, and have multiple ways through them. The graphics are a SMALL, and I mean small, improvement over Oblivion, but not much has changed. Be warned, this game is not for the action gamer, the FPS elements are light and are not that good. Your character moves slow and the models are a little stiff. Basically, what was lacking in Oblivion is present here. It just needs a construction editor… Expand
  74. ChristopherB.
    Nov 14, 2008
    9
    Superior game overall. The main story may be a little short. Don't rush through it as this game unlike the Elder Scrolls ends when you complete the main quest line. Character creation is absolutely brilliant.
  75. TheStodd
    Nov 16, 2008
    10
    A few bugs, but so far Game of the Year without a doubt. The game Oblivion should have been! Ignore the naysayers - this is something very special, just make sure your rig can handle it (which any reasonable system should do).
  76. MarkT.
    Nov 16, 2008
    10
    A few small shortcomings, just things were you say "It would have been cool if they did this", but any minor issues with the game are more than made up for by the fact that I've almost never had this much fun gaming.
  77. RCR
    Nov 2, 2008
    9
    Fallout 1 & 2 are incomparable classics, my favorite RPGs of all-time, and the only RPGs I've ever enoyed a second go-around with after completion. So far, while in the early stages of playing Fallout 3, I'm enjoying the experience of roaming the Wasteland. The atmosphere is wholly absorbing and the gameplay is quite fun. I gave up hope of a true third installment after the Fallout 1 & 2 are incomparable classics, my favorite RPGs of all-time, and the only RPGs I've ever enoyed a second go-around with after completion. So far, while in the early stages of playing Fallout 3, I'm enjoying the experience of roaming the Wasteland. The atmosphere is wholly absorbing and the gameplay is quite fun. I gave up hope of a true third installment after the Brotherhood of Steel Tactical game came out. Then, like most Fallout purists, I was disappointed to learn that the long awaited follow-up game wasn't to be 3/4 isometric (nor turn-based) and developed by a different team. Playing it, however, I realize it's been developed by Fallout Universe fans. Fallout is alive and well. Enough pontificating; time to hunt some Raiders.… Expand
  78. YourMother
    Nov 2, 2008
    9
    I have played Fallout in the past, and this isn't exactly what the die hard nutjob Fallout fans will want, but it is still a good game. Never mind the zero score haters, because they haven't played the game. And beware of the 10 fanboys, that fail to mention many of the flaws. The good parts are the ability to explore the fallout world in whatever way you want. Fallout 3 is I have played Fallout in the past, and this isn't exactly what the die hard nutjob Fallout fans will want, but it is still a good game. Never mind the zero score haters, because they haven't played the game. And beware of the 10 fanboys, that fail to mention many of the flaws. The good parts are the ability to explore the fallout world in whatever way you want. Fallout 3 is different from the previous games in early gameplay. If you want energy weapons early, chances are you will find them. If you want to blowoff the campaign, go for it. But expect to find hard enemies like robots and supermutants early. The voice acting and dialogue options are pretty fun, and in tune with the previous games. They aren't long and boring like many other RPGs. As you increase in level, the character becomes overpowered relatively quickly, but can still be overwhelmed by masses of enemies fairly easy. The graphics seem a little dated, but overall pretty good for an outdated engine. There are a lot of moral choices and decisions that affect that gameplay in huge ways. AI is kinda bad, kinda sub par for an RPG. NPC bugs are crazy and often. Repair has become the new must have skill. I can't complain about the story and depth of the game. They did a lot of little things that really help paint a good post-apocalypse 1950-ish setting. They also did a poor job of giving the PC users better control options and buttons. Melee and unarmed animations are kinda boring and repetitive. Overall, still a good game, and worth it's weight.… Expand
  79. JeffL.
    Nov 2, 2008
    10
    Here comes the voice of reason: Fallout Review from a true Fallout Fan: GRAPHICS: 9 These are fairly Oblivion-esque, obviously, they were made on the same engine, well technically not the same engine, an updated version of the engine. But they still felt whole heartedly like Fallout, you got the sense of despair and dirty/grimy/realism that the original had. I know I had many a time where Here comes the voice of reason: Fallout Review from a true Fallout Fan: GRAPHICS: 9 These are fairly Oblivion-esque, obviously, they were made on the same engine, well technically not the same engine, an updated version of the engine. But they still felt whole heartedly like Fallout, you got the sense of despair and dirty/grimy/realism that the original had. I know I had many a time where when I went into a building or a vault that I saw things on the ground or wall that I went.... "Oh shit, I'm gonna die," never once did I have that feeling with Oblivion. Bethesda pulled off the gore level nicely, we must remember that the originals were over the top for their time as well. GAMEPLAY: 9 The gameplay was solid, I am really impressed that it wasn't just Oblivion with guns, they made it a true Fallout game, and the V.A.T.S. was truly what did it. This allowed for the turn-based ability that one could hope for, I personally never did like the full TB system in the old ones anyway (used the "speed up" mode) I think that there was too much planning for killing one or two critters. If you were battling the echelons of hell then I would understand full TB, but it was only ever at most maybe 3 or 4 at a time. The dialog level fit in nicely, the swearing was only where it was in good taste, which is much like the originals. STORYLINE: 10 Simply amazing. I knew the story really had me when, after searching for my father's holotapes I come across one that is named "Better Days," where it sounds like the character's parents are in the course of romance, I didn't go WTF, but instead I laughed a little and cringed a little at the same time, as if I was actually the kid coming across this. They did a superb job of giving characters that needed to say something a personality that makes you love them or hate them or even something else. I know there were many times where I liked a character so much that I couldn't kill them, or was compelled to when asked to within a quest, this is what the original did as well, and I know it would make the original Fallout team proud. MISCELLANEOUS: The animation was clunky at times, but I expected that, this being on the same engine as Oblivion, and seeing the animation in Oblivion, I knew what to expect. I would say that the PC version is definitely the more streamlined of the 3 systems, and made my overall experience that much better. This definitely was built for the consoles simplicity wise but the computers pull it off so much better. My final verdict is a must buy. It's got its quirks but I know that the community is already strong and those things will be worked out pretty quickly.… Expand
  80. EvanS.
    Nov 24, 2008
    10
    Fallout 3 is one of the best games ever to come out this year, and perhaps this decade. Don't be turned away by the depression the wasteland causes and the sometimes too easy VATS system, everything from the speech choices to the quests are well thought out and executed perfectly. If you liked the exporation and the other elements that made Oblivion great, take it to the next step to Fallout 3 is one of the best games ever to come out this year, and perhaps this decade. Don't be turned away by the depression the wasteland causes and the sometimes too easy VATS system, everything from the speech choices to the quests are well thought out and executed perfectly. If you liked the exporation and the other elements that made Oblivion great, take it to the next step to Fallout 3 Do not hesitate to purchase this game, the wastes are waiting.… Expand
  81. Mike
    Nov 27, 2008
    10
    It has by far exeeded my expectations. D.C. wasteland feels real and the only bad thing about the game is that it is going to end. For now I spent nearly 50 hours avoiding the unevitable.
  82. EricB.
    Dec 1, 2008
    10
    anyone who didn't like the game has shity taste in games. probably people that like to play my simis life or trials or my pets or little big planet crappy games like those just a bunch of shitty opinions. I am sorry that the game didn't let you pick flowers like on harvest moon and feed your pets but it did offer good dialogue and great game play so its like oblivion but just anyone who didn't like the game has shity taste in games. probably people that like to play my simis life or trials or my pets or little big planet crappy games like those just a bunch of shitty opinions. I am sorry that the game didn't let you pick flowers like on harvest moon and feed your pets but it did offer good dialogue and great game play so its like oblivion but just fallout game play well sorry to burst your bubbles but that was the point. there is no other game out there like fallout 3 and that is what makes it good, to create something new and different is not easy so i give them allot of crdit for this one.… Expand
  83. ThomasV.
    Dec 17, 2008
    9
    TRULY and in my opinion one of the best games I ever played! At the beginning I had some crashes when using the V.A.T.S. with my old 320 MB 8800GTS but after having changed to a HD 4870 they were gone... Don't know whether Bethesda already fixed this issue. And YES, the main quests is a little predictable but nevertheless quite challenging. And YES, fights become a little bit easy TRULY and in my opinion one of the best games I ever played! At the beginning I had some crashes when using the V.A.T.S. with my old 320 MB 8800GTS but after having changed to a HD 4870 they were gone... Don't know whether Bethesda already fixed this issue. And YES, the main quests is a little predictable but nevertheless quite challenging. And YES, fights become a little bit easy after a while, but I still get shot sometimes by those supermutants if they're enough and I don't get criticals on their heads (which nicely explode). The variety of enemies also isn't that big but I have a nice pack of guns with which I can take them down! Ammunition can become an issue but usually it's not a real prob to have enough ammo for at least on of those fabulous guns you can carry! Aditionally I believe that in a postnuclear world ammo shouldn't lie around everywhere... So if you're into "Mad Max"-like postnuclear scenarios and like to roam around in a quite huge world using tonz of gunz, lockpicking, hacking, sneaking, bartering and so on THIS IS THE GAME YOU SHOULD PLAY. I also played the Fallout 1 & 2 like ten years ago and I think F3 at least partially brings back the old feelings. Presentation is also quite nice (not so nice: some pop-ups, textures are a little bad on a closer look) and the far-view is incredible, at least with my HD 4870. Seeing a brotherhood of steel guy in his power armor from face to face is really nice if you're use to the old 2D-iso perspective. I'm playing the game for 40 hours now and I almost finished the main plot, but I don't want the game to be over! Therefore I'm roaming around in the wastelands trying to explore every single corner of this world to get every quest and item I can get. Yes, I truly love this game and I'm really happy that it met all the expectations I had for 2 years now. LOVE OR LEAVE IT!… Expand
  84. MichaelC
    Dec 23, 2008
    9
    Plenty to do here, i played this game over 100 hours easily. Upsides is Its enjoyable, has great graphics and sound will take a long time to finish all quests, could have put a few more guns in but still a fairly big ammount of items to collect. Really the only downsides are it can become i little boring somtimes and many bugs and errors stop it from being a 10. Simpily a fantastic game.
  85. king
    Dec 27, 2008
    10
    For starters I'm not really an RPG fan and usually find it difficult to stick with one all the way through but this game kept me coming back. I've played it through once and I've already started another new game just so I can make different decisions. One of my favorite all time games and I've played games for 15 years!
  86. martijns.
    Dec 31, 2008
    8
    the best game i ever played so far bought it a week ago and bin playing it many hours now i started out playng it at normal level first but i didnt get far cuz i didnt save game in a good way and no money for bullits and not strong enough leveled so i loaded back to the vault and play at very easy then the game becomes very good im not going into detail you just find out your selfs reason the best game i ever played so far bought it a week ago and bin playing it many hours now i started out playng it at normal level first but i didnt get far cuz i didnt save game in a good way and no money for bullits and not strong enough leveled so i loaded back to the vault and play at very easy then the game becomes very good im not going into detail you just find out your selfs reason that i give it an 8 is that i hope there will be many more even more better games then this there i say masterpiece? game for the future to come so next will be 8.1 :D rating a 10 is so final for the future to come wich ofcourse is.… Expand
  87. AndrewR.
    Dec 8, 2008
    9
    I honestly believe that although Fallout 3 was unlike the first two of the franchise, it is in itself a very well developed and enjoyable game. What is even better is how people giving this game 0's and 2's try to enforce their beliefs using conspiracy theories and grandios vocabulary. Its a joy to read how people rate the game 0 out of 10 because they were to foolish to read I honestly believe that although Fallout 3 was unlike the first two of the franchise, it is in itself a very well developed and enjoyable game. What is even better is how people giving this game 0's and 2's try to enforce their beliefs using conspiracy theories and grandios vocabulary. Its a joy to read how people rate the game 0 out of 10 because they were to foolish to read the minimum reqs, and how the intellectually disinclined behave . Bloody Mess ftw.… Expand
  88. brads
    Nov 25, 2009
    9
    this is honestly one of the best games i have ever played. granted that the beginning is a little boring, and tiring due to the fact of limited ammo. but that isn't my main reason for only rated it 9. the other factor was the glitches. at random, deathclaws would just fly in the air and occasionally there would be an NPC in the ground. But mixed with the gameplay and the endless this is honestly one of the best games i have ever played. granted that the beginning is a little boring, and tiring due to the fact of limited ammo. but that isn't my main reason for only rated it 9. the other factor was the glitches. at random, deathclaws would just fly in the air and occasionally there would be an NPC in the ground. But mixed with the gameplay and the endless playing time, this game truly deserves a 9. I haven't played a more addicting game since pacman. I really do enjoy this game and I would recommend it for a buy. DO NOT RENT THIS GAME, its a type of game that needs to be played for more than 30 minutes, like some of the reviews had posted. try it out ^^ (and if your gonna get it, get Broken Steel along with it.)… Expand
  89. LandonF
    Dec 12, 2009
    10
    This game is the best game i've ever played. The replay value is VERY high, IMO. this is about the fourth or fifth time i've beat it. there are many places to explore, things to do, and an epic main story. very well worth the money.
  90. GareBear
    Dec 26, 2009
    10
    This game ties with call of duty in my opinion. both very different i know but i play both a looooooooooot. not like any other game i've played before.
  91. RandomRaider
    Dec 27, 2009
    10
    Great system, great gameplay, great sounds, great interface, great graphics, great story, big and beautiful, this game has it all - and its a must have!
  92. AlexK
    May 18, 2009
    10
    The best Fallout game yet. Anyone crying about how it isn't like fallout and fallout 2 needs to shut up. Fallout and fallout 2 had slightly better stories, but that was about it. This is one of these games you will never put down, even years from now people will be playing this game as if it was new. The DLC added to this game makes it that much better...
  93. Sean
    Jun 21, 2009
    9
    People who complain about the graphics being too high to handle, please speak for yourself... my pc can handle this just fine on ultra high with aa maxed and af maxed. The intensity of the graphics all depends on how much you were willing to spend on your computer... This game is great, definitely worth the money.
  94. NickM.
    Jul 16, 2009
    10
    An amazing game!!!! V.A.T.S was a stroke of genius. Few games actually make you feel like your living every moment of them and fallout 3 is one of those few.
  95. AlexV
    Nov 12, 2008
    10
    Superb, first and foremost a role-playing game but the VATS system works really well combined with fps. Glad they kept the humour and a worthy addition to the fallout series, can't wait for the next (hopefully with more advanced graphics and as good an fps as rpg). Huge fun just exploring with adventure around every turn and kept me glued to the computer for the first time in ages.
  96. NoName
    Nov 13, 2008
    10
    An instant classic. This game joins KOTOR, Half-Life, Half-Life 2 and System Shock 2 as one the best games of all time. Beware though, for those looking for a simple shooter (like Call of Duty, Halo) you may be disappointed. This is an FPS-RPG, don't expect a twitch game.
  97. MichaelL.
    Nov 13, 2008
    10
    Bethesda has made yet another game that blows away the competition. Bethesda makes in my opinion the best RPG games that I have ever seen, with stunning graphics to many hours of work trying to become a good, or bad, guy while earning a nice amount of cash along with the experience. The quality of their work shows almost as if the game disk doesn't reflect light, the light shines from it.
  98. JamesP.
    Nov 14, 2008
    10
    In a sea of commercials, Fallout 3 Stands as real content. This game provides hundreds of hours of playtime. It has a meaningful and entertaining story. Its visuals are above par for the genre.
  99. AW
    Nov 14, 2008
    10
    This game is truely amazing! Very innovative with unique ideas. Although the end left me feeling a bit empty because I thought you would be able to continue playing in the world, it was definitely the best game since Half Life 2. Great job Bethesda! PLEASE MAKE ANOTHER SOON!
  100. MichaelW.
    Nov 23, 2008
    9
    Anyone who is a fan of immersive, entertaining, and/or unique video game experiences should strongly consider checking out Fallout 3. While many have said it is "Oblivion with Guns", the resemblance is only in basic combat mechanics and gameplay perspective. Everything else is uniquely Fallout. Everything from the environments to the little objects you find strewn everywhere, to the Anyone who is a fan of immersive, entertaining, and/or unique video game experiences should strongly consider checking out Fallout 3. While many have said it is "Oblivion with Guns", the resemblance is only in basic combat mechanics and gameplay perspective. Everything else is uniquely Fallout. Everything from the environments to the little objects you find strewn everywhere, to the surreal experience of listening to swing music as you obliterate zombies adds to the impressive ambiance of the post-apocalyptic world of Fallout 3. While I have not played the first two in the series, this game has drawn me in like very few can, it is among such games as Legend of Zelda and Mass Effect in that area. This is one of the few games where the player can actually get emotionally invested in the characters and the plot. While I will not give spoilers, suffice it to say that there are plenty of moments that made me want to laugh, cry, and even throw things at my TV. One moment in particular created a feeling of complete helplessness, something I have never felt in a video game. The sheer variety of weapons is one of the most pleasant surprises, especially those which you cobble together using schematics found throughout the world. Most of the custom weapons have an odd fusion of new tech and old tech, especially the Railway Rifle, a modified hunting rifle-type weapon that fires railroad spikes. Every weapon is satisfying and fun to use. For added fun, check out the "Bloody Mess" perk, if you can for added combat entertainment. All in all, I can safely give this game my highest recommendation, and it should be on any gamer's must-play list.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

3
#3 Best PC Game of 2008
1
#1 Most Discussed PC Game of 2008
1
#1 Most Shared PC Game of 2008

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
91

Universal acclaim - based on 48 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 45 out of 48
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 48
  3. Negative: 0 out of 48
  1. PC PowerPlay
    90
    Minor niggles aside, Fallout 3 is almost entirely spectacular. Everything from the graphics, to the sound, to the plot is first-rate. The VATS system worlds like a charm, and it’s so easy to get the hang of, you’ll be cracking skulls like there’s no tomorrow. [Dec 2008, p.55]
  2. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    100
    A vast and open world of unimaginable possibilities opens in front of you in Fallout 3. Great story, flawless combat system, and the option to choose your own way makes it a hot candidate for game of the year. [Nov 2008]
  3. Meristation
    95
    Fallout 3 is one of this year's best games. It's an unforgettable journey that lives up to the series. You are an ex-vault 101 inhabitant, and you discover a whole new world, full of zombies, mutants, raiders, aliens and all kinds of creatures. Welcome to this post-apocaliptic reality, where you are going to spend hundreds of hours.
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