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. xxjerm70xx
    Sep 23, 2014
    9
    War....War never changes but Gameplay does with excellent mods. Fallout 3 is one of the greater games of last gen. and is still fun to play. Its a FPS/TPS that sends you into a vast world of The Capital Wasteland to explore its chilling environment that can look excellent in today's standard with textures pack. But the game needs mods to add in that extra 100 hours.
  2. mclure
    Aug 23, 2014
    10
    Good game with lots of places to explore and quests to complete, it's a post-apocalyptic world where you carve your own path and choose to be good, evil or neutral.
  3. koval321
    Aug 18, 2014
    0
    Real time combat in this game is not existing I cant find way to play it as FPP game for example Half Life. Ok I understand there may be boss as deathclaw but in Fallout2 I was able to kill one by machine gun survive where here am climb on rock and do some else dirty trick to jam monster on obstacle which looks so stupid cheating but I just cand do it normally am shoot monster in head fromReal time combat in this game is not existing I cant find way to play it as FPP game for example Half Life. Ok I understand there may be boss as deathclaw but in Fallout2 I was able to kill one by machine gun survive where here am climb on rock and do some else dirty trick to jam monster on obstacle which looks so stupid cheating but I just cand do it normally am shoot monster in head from sniper riffle at large distance and he is able to run from there and even don't care am machine gun his eye. The same boss problems have on island DLC Where am actually lost every items from ufo DLC am take all trat super treasures to locker in my house, then I go for trip to island and when am return all that items was gone. So what am actually have interesting? My best gun is AK47 again? Am really feel like stuck to some simple weapon and cant understand it break with every shoot am made. This should be in (un)realistic mode because am found this annoying in normal game. I just cant play this any longer when my battles looks like jam monster on obstacle and watch animations as bullet come out from riffle and slowly travel to monster head.. everytime.. eve-ry sin-gle ti-me this is not postnuclear FPP as I thought it to be, this game have something broken and am found it to be unplayable or frustrating & boring. Well what you may expect from Elder Scrolls, these games are.. as they are everybody known. Definitely this is not true Fallout 3 its just postnuclear mod to Oblivion. It is well done mod but not Fallout 3 game I dont see any reason to do it in 3D, it could be done on Infinity Engine, for example modification to Baldurs Gate 2. I could see that working, but Oblivion? Noo not really.. My score is low because I dont enjoy it anymore, I cant complete this game which is crazy. If this was real F3 then am already would complete it 10x am pretty sure of that, but I don't completed it even once which mean this is not F3 it is fake game, modification to completely other game.This is like unplayable mod to Oblivion nothing more in my opinion. Actually if this was mod am would score it high as about 8/10 but this is not game, this not working because it obviously cant. Its like modify car into washing machine by rolling it from hill, this just don't work whatsoever and whole idea is ridiculous... turn Oblivion into Fallout 3 ? LOL Why somebody ever tried that? Ok am actually interest to see Fallout 4 on Skyrim.. but hey.. isnt Skyrim is actually modified Fallout 3.. huh? Weird or what? So we already seen Fallout 4 on Skyrim engine.. it is Fallout New Vegas! OMG that is so ridiculous. Look, they improved Oblivion to make F3, then they improved F3 to make Skyrim and New Vegas this is the same engine rolling.… Expand
  4. DeusXCom
    Aug 3, 2014
    7
    Bethesda did an amazing job at the one thing they always do - the exploration, in this case, the exploration of the post-apocalyptic wasteland in 3D open world was amazing, even the very start of the game is pretty impressive and for a while it looked like this could be a worthy successor in the Fallout series, but it slowly starts to show the shortcomings of Bethesda as well. Too manyBethesda did an amazing job at the one thing they always do - the exploration, in this case, the exploration of the post-apocalyptic wasteland in 3D open world was amazing, even the very start of the game is pretty impressive and for a while it looked like this could be a worthy successor in the Fallout series, but it slowly starts to show the shortcomings of Bethesda as well. Too many bugs, crashes and other technical problems mixed with quite bland story and not really interesting quests or characters. Even the thing you loved at the start will annoy you in the end, loads of invisible walls and running through chaotic subway systems. I still enjoyed the experience, roaming the wasteland and listening to the Pip Boy radio was good, even some of the trademark things from original Fallout like VATS and SPECIAL mechanics are still here, but it's just not the same level of premium quality. Maybe the lack of good writing, memorable characters, or fantastic music to create a proper atmosphere, there is definitely something missing here. The content got a bit better with all the DLC, but I would still highly recommend Fallout 1 & 2 or New Vegas as a much better experiences than this. 7/10… Expand
  5. WestLil0
    Jul 27, 2014
    8
    This game reminded me so much of Oblivion until I realized they're both Bethesda games! The dialog, people's faces and general feel of the game is exactly like Oblivion. Despite it being from 2008, it still offers great gameplay but a couple of the mods I recommend are the sprint mod and the computer hacking mod. Makes the game a bit easier to get through...and for a cheap price of $19 itThis game reminded me so much of Oblivion until I realized they're both Bethesda games! The dialog, people's faces and general feel of the game is exactly like Oblivion. Despite it being from 2008, it still offers great gameplay but a couple of the mods I recommend are the sprint mod and the computer hacking mod. Makes the game a bit easier to get through...and for a cheap price of $19 it was worth playing at least once.… Expand
  6. PhilB
    Jul 21, 2014
    9
    Initially I was disappointed, but the depth and (good but not great) refinement pulled it through. The subway system is a good example of this. It's a bit linear, but about mid-way through the game you'll probably find it a very rewarding experience. It wasn't until I started taking legs off with the Railway Rifle that I started really liking this game. Dialog options are the only realInitially I was disappointed, but the depth and (good but not great) refinement pulled it through. The subway system is a good example of this. It's a bit linear, but about mid-way through the game you'll probably find it a very rewarding experience. It wasn't until I started taking legs off with the Railway Rifle that I started really liking this game. Dialog options are the only real complaint I have. You can usually only choose between the saintly option or the evil option, nowhere in between.… Expand
  7. dgh13
    Jul 20, 2014
    9
    This is NOT a traditional Fallout game. This is Bethesda's interpretation of a beloved game series. It succeeds in being a game, as I have found exactly one bug when trying to purposely break the game. It is more of an action RPG than a traditional RPG, but at the same time it offers a lot of options that make the game infinitely replayable for me. Not to mention that it is the largestThis is NOT a traditional Fallout game. This is Bethesda's interpretation of a beloved game series. It succeeds in being a game, as I have found exactly one bug when trying to purposely break the game. It is more of an action RPG than a traditional RPG, but at the same time it offers a lot of options that make the game infinitely replayable for me. Not to mention that it is the largest world Bethesda has ever designed. The game can run on older computers. My only major gripes with the game is that Speech is used very little, and that the game feels a little too easy. All in all, it is one of the most well designed games I've ever played.… Expand
  8. Alsmir
    Jul 10, 2014
    10
    I am a huge fan of Fallout 1 and 2 and that's why I was really worried about this game. I didn't believe Bethesda has what it takes to create a game that will satisfy the fans. I found Oblivion disappointing at least, so when I first started Fallout 3 I didn't have high expectations.

    The beginning is quite unusual, starting as a baby and taking your first steps, then progressing through    I am a huge fan of Fallout 1 and 2 and that's why I was really worried about this game. I didn't believe Bethesda has what it takes to create a game that will satisfy the fans. I found Oblivion disappointing at least, so when I first started Fallout 3 I didn't have high expectations.

    The beginning is quite unusual, starting as a baby and taking your first steps, then progressing through some events of your childhood. It felt really weird, but it served as a decent tutorial. At the end of it we leave the vault. Blinding sun effect fades and we witness the postapocaliptic wasteland.

    It was just how I imagined it, dirty, brutal and unforgiving, but this time from first person perspective - making it even more real. I was lost for countless hours wandering around, trying to survive, exploring, fighting... and listening to great radio podcasts. Finally I realised that I have some storyline to progress. Oh, right...

    The main story was good, side quests are great, combat system is fluid and encounters are challenging. Exploring the world, wandering through wasteland is more fun than exploring of Oblivion or Skyrim will ever be. More importantly - watseland is unforgiving. It takes a really long time to feel comfortable wherever you go. You never know if a lonely abandoned town you decided to visit will be just a quiet place or a death trap full of deadly deathclaws that will rip through your power armour with ease.
    Will there be an epic item waiting there for you?
    Well, there was a really annoying talking armour that got me addicted to chems... and I loved it!

    Sure, the character developement could be better, we could use some extra weapons, more quests, etc.; but at the end of the day I'm a vault dweller travelling through wasteland with his supermutant friend and listening to climatic songs on the radio.    … Expand
  9. Witherfang
    Jun 21, 2014
    10
    i am a fan of the fallout 3 to new vegas ik thats not a true fan but its really nice all i hv to say is bathesda if u make it anything like skyrim except graphics i will FREAGGIN HATE IT. skyrim was a good idea but u guys executed it wrong. correct your mistakes with fallout 4 and the new elder scrolls plz. thx if u do and screw u if u dont.

    this games gets a 9.5/10 i love it to peices    i am a fan of the fallout 3 to new vegas ik thats not a true fan but its really nice all i hv to say is bathesda if u make it anything like skyrim except graphics i will FREAGGIN HATE IT. skyrim was a good idea but u guys executed it wrong. correct your mistakes with fallout 4 and the new elder scrolls plz. thx if u do and screw u if u dont.

    this games gets a 9.5/10 i love it to peices but the low amount of ammo makes it challenging,..more challenging put it like that but without a challenge u only have skyrim so :P *srry bathesda* BUT YALL DID VERY WELL I HOPE YALL MAKE MORE AND I say this game should be bought by every1. thank your for reading i know the coding in the begining is hard but its worth it i might even make a download to make life easy for yall    … Expand
  10. MetalHeadCrab
    Jun 18, 2014
    10
    Nearly every aspect of Fallout 3 has already been critiqued and reviewed. Everything in this game is nearly perfect. The player is left wanting more. The only real problem with this game is that it will crash occasionally, but what game doesn't?

    I become immersed in the game really quickly and I have to admit that this causes me to overlook some of the game's obvious flaws and mess-ups.    Nearly every aspect of Fallout 3 has already been critiqued and reviewed. Everything in this game is nearly perfect. The player is left wanting more. The only real problem with this game is that it will crash occasionally, but what game doesn't?

    I become immersed in the game really quickly and I have to admit that this causes me to overlook some of the game's obvious flaws and mess-ups. As another reviewer pointed out, shooting someone using VATS and aiming for a specific body part does not seem to effect, hamper or handicap them in any way. Although this is true, it never bothered me enough to ruin my gaming experience. I can even overlook just because it makes the enemy a bit more challenging.

    I got the impression from negative reviewers that Fallout is boring, grey, depressing with the same thing everywhere you go. Hello, have these people forgotten where this game takes place? Post-nuclear, post-apocalyptic D.C. area! The whole point of the game is to take you to this dark, depressing time that offers little hope to humanity and the player. Fallout 3 does a great job of immersing players and giving them the feeling that they really are in a hell-hole wasteland. The dj, radio stations and choice of music was pure genius that really tied the game together. I don't know what a real post-nuclear apocalypse would feel like, but this game made me feel like I was in one.

    My advice to new Fallout 3 players is to play the vanilla version from start to finish. If you liked it, browser around the Nexus website for the top-rated mods and select the ones that appeal to you. Mods have given this game even more replay value and have addressed most issues people have with the game.

    Originally review Oct 27, 2011, revised Jun 18, 2014. Still love the game as much as I did when it was released.    … Expand
  11. Mynameiscool
    Jun 14, 2014
    8
    This wonderful game may have a whole heaping ton of glitches (That I've found already) and a short, short main story, by not doing the main story all the time, you can discover the rest of the world of Fallout 3, and reveal hidden treasures, interesting quests, cool weapons, and of course, the add-ons that are pretty impressive (not Mother Ship Zeta! Just my tip to you! Don't play it ifThis wonderful game may have a whole heaping ton of glitches (That I've found already) and a short, short main story, by not doing the main story all the time, you can discover the rest of the world of Fallout 3, and reveal hidden treasures, interesting quests, cool weapons, and of course, the add-ons that are pretty impressive (not Mother Ship Zeta! Just my tip to you! Don't play it if you don't want to risk losing all the work you've done in the wasteland! Believe me, it's glitched as heck.). Oh! And if you want to continue playing after the main quest is finished, download Broken Steel.… Expand
  12. TheFoxPhoenix
    Jun 10, 2014
    10
    Man, some will say it's fanboy-thing, but no, it's not, this game is one of the games of my life, because all is so immersive (despite a little in the graphics), and opened, just like every little thing in this game have an history, an detail, that can be founded and explored. If you like either FPS or RPG, buy this game, you'll won't regret it!
  13. carlosgtardon
    Jun 10, 2014
    9
    Otro de los juegos que más pavor me producía que hicieran mal pero cuyo resultado fue mejor del esperado. Uno de los grandes mundos abiertos en los que vagabundear por DC destruido por bombas nucleares ya vale el precio. Sin duda una compra óptima.
  14. Ignatius_Reilly
    May 29, 2014
    5
    The worst Fallout in the series. While it has things like a vault, and Enclave, everything else about it is a pure watered down Bethesda hack job. As a romp around a nuclear wasteland, it's fine, but as far as feeling like your character has any choice in anything, it's far from what came before. No matter what character you build, you can do anything, so role playing is pretty muchThe worst Fallout in the series. While it has things like a vault, and Enclave, everything else about it is a pure watered down Bethesda hack job. As a romp around a nuclear wasteland, it's fine, but as far as feeling like your character has any choice in anything, it's far from what came before. No matter what character you build, you can do anything, so role playing is pretty much gutted. Though there are some interesting side areas, the main quest is terribly bland with little choice involved. Combat is dull, requiring little tactics since VATS is god mode, and so long as you're smart enough to click Target> Head, you'll win every time and never take damage. It's a cheap knock off of the series. Get New Vegas, if you want a better next gen Fallout experience. Or better yet, play the old games, to understand just how far off the mark Bethesda was when they tried to make an actual RPG. Terrible game.… Expand
  15. NooblordFocker
    May 26, 2014
    10
    Fallout 3 equals pure nostalgia for me. It was probably the second RPG game I payed, after KOTOR. I recently replayed the game and yeah, I did notice flaws,quite a bit of them,that I hadn't taken into account when I was younger. However, the game is still a wonderful, immersive open world experience. A lot of the criticism stemmed from the fact, that many game mechanics were taken fromFallout 3 equals pure nostalgia for me. It was probably the second RPG game I payed, after KOTOR. I recently replayed the game and yeah, I did notice flaws,quite a bit of them,that I hadn't taken into account when I was younger. However, the game is still a wonderful, immersive open world experience. A lot of the criticism stemmed from the fact, that many game mechanics were taken from "TES IV: Oblivion". I think that was a good decision though. Bethesda took the good elements from Oblivion and the original Fallout games and combined them to create a fantastic game. The progression system is the prime example of how well this worked out. There are many ways to develop your character and at the same time the games is free from the traditional class restrictions. I'm not saying the system is perfect, there are some perks,which are quite honestly useless, others are blatantly overpowered. At higher levels your character will become a little too powerful, having DLC installed can further amplify this effect. I remember during a playthrough with one of my stealth characters I had acquired the Chinese stealth armor and the Gauss Rifle from Operation Anchorage, at about lvl 22 (I had Broken Steal as well) I was able to one-hit-kill Super Mutant Masters and Glowing Ones using sneak attacks. This shows a recurring flaw in Bethesda's post "Morrowind" open world RPGs. The level progression is very unbalanced. At the start of the game you are quite underpowered and if you are unlucky enough to come across say, a deathclaw, then your private anal space shall be violated in a rather unpleasant way, however when you reach the higher levels you simply become too powerful as I stated above. For some reason Bethesda doesn't seem to be addressing this problem, in fact it's even more prominent in "Skyrim" then in any other previous game. Thankfully there exists a very large modding community for "Fallout 3", as well as all other Bethesda games, which is something the company should be given credit for. Not a lot of big Gaming companies support modding in such a way, unfortunately. Story was quite interesting ,though the main quest's short length did not allow for it to be developed as extensively as I would have liked. Another reviewer and clearly a hardcore fan of the Fallout series stated the game did not capture the feel of the original. While I really liked his review, as it was written very well and gave me another point of view on this game, I must disagree with him. It is true, that this was the first Fallout game I played, but It did give me a pretty good sense of what the Fallout universe was like. I like how Bethesda attempted social commentary through elements of the game's world, which was something present in the originals. It was subtle and done very well, but unfortunately I haven't seen Bethesda attempt this in any of their newer games. And although this element could not be developed very well due to the short and linear nature of the main quest and the fact that it feels so disconnected with the Side activities, the overall feel of the game was solid. "Fallout 3" succeeds in creating a haunting, post apocalyptic atmosphere, although at times the color gray is too overwhelming and one cannot help but feel that Bethesda was a little lazy in the interior design. Most importantly, though, the game was and for me still is very fun to play. No doubt, this is the game, in which i have invested the most gameplay hours. Wandering the wastes aimlessly, finding little oddities and wondering how they ended up where they are, or what exactly happened in the building. "Fallout 3" offers an incredibly immersive experience. It can also be a great stress relief if you're a sick f*** like me who likes to shred people to little peaces. Tell me my friends, has there ever been anything more satisfying than killing an oversized cockroach with a handheld nuclear weapon? To sum it all up, "Fallout 3" is an amazing game, despite it's flaws.… Expand
  16. OrangeTheGod
    May 17, 2014
    5
    This game focus a lot on the side missions and the size of the map rather than providing a good gameplay and storytelling experience. The concept is interesting, but overall the game is clearly overrated.
  17. debigman
    May 15, 2014
    7
    This is one of the greatest games ever made, but it has a lot of bugs that never got fixed. Also, it has GFWL which makes it always-online. If you are looking to play this game, try to get a DRM-free (but legal please) version.
  18. pepikJS
    May 13, 2014
    2
    When I've had Vista on my computer, I played this game, but it was so boring I wasn't able to finish it. It's some sort of pseudo-open world, it's repetitive, every location looks the same. Now I decided to play it again, but NOW I have Windows 7 on my computer and guess what? This piece of flip is crashing because of 2 two things - Windows 7 and Windows live. Windows live is lame as flipWhen I've had Vista on my computer, I played this game, but it was so boring I wasn't able to finish it. It's some sort of pseudo-open world, it's repetitive, every location looks the same. Now I decided to play it again, but NOW I have Windows 7 on my computer and guess what? This piece of flip is crashing because of 2 two things - Windows 7 and Windows live. Windows live is lame as flip and not workin', and Windows 7? This game has compatibility of hamster. 10 year old games are perfectly playable even now on modern systems, but game made in times of Windows Vista has issues on Windows 7! So, basically, this (s)flip is crashing, playing it is a pure deprival. I destroyed my DVD and buried that crap in a sewer.… Expand
  19. Jacer200
    May 10, 2014
    7
    I played a fully modded version from Nexus mods. This is a good RPG to play if you are itching for a classic western game to play. Fully modded the game looked really good for being so old. The story did not grip me that much but it was still fun to play. I found playing with a 360 controller to be far superior than keyboard and mouse. I am playing this right after Dark Souls. And the 29I played a fully modded version from Nexus mods. This is a good RPG to play if you are itching for a classic western game to play. Fully modded the game looked really good for being so old. The story did not grip me that much but it was still fun to play. I found playing with a 360 controller to be far superior than keyboard and mouse. I am playing this right after Dark Souls. And the 29 hours it took me to play this game took me by surprise after playing a 65 hour game. But overall a good game on sale. This is a must play because Fallout 4 is in the chamber.… Expand
  20. Nova9000
    May 3, 2014
    9
    This game very cool! Intresting quests, characters, and of course Capital wasteland. This game have very intesting DLC. Bad that this game isnot optimized for Windows 7. This game freezes and slows down. But
    still it is cool.
  21. TheUnbeholden
    Apr 22, 2014
    8
    They didn't make it a real time FPS to "make it easier to start with for new players" thats what a tutorial is for, not a whole game. The reason they made is that some people don't like TB strategy games.

    Problem is that hardcore fallout fans won't like this and people who like FPS might not like the necessity of using VATS mode which slows the game down and takes control away from you.    They didn't make it a real time FPS to "make it easier to start with for new players" thats what a tutorial is for, not a whole game. The reason they made is that some people don't like TB strategy games.

    Problem is that hardcore fallout fans won't like this and people who like FPS might not like the necessity of using VATS mode which slows the game down and takes control away from you. Fact is the game is far away from FO3, not just in gameplay but visually the wasteland looks different. It looks alot more grey than FO3 is, not enough brown and green is missing that you should see "some" of, some plants here and there. Signs that the world is recovering.
    No Bosses. Missed opportunity.

    The stories ending is also terrible, the story just felt empty at the end which is kind of really unforgivable for fallout. The endings are so abysmal, they do nothing to give any closure or even summarise all the trails and tribulations you had to go through upto that point.    … Expand
  22. OriginalMarf
    Apr 11, 2014
    9
    I preferred this compared to New Vegas mainly because I actually felt like playing Fallout 3 and I replayed it at least 15 times, but when I played New Vegas I wanted to replay it, but I felt like it was a hassle. At times I felt genuine fear of how many super mutants were around the corner and the story was amazing compared to New Vegas.
  23. junedragon3
    Mar 20, 2014
    10
    Open world gameplay at it's finest. I had loads of fun just exploring the vast Capitol Wasteland rich with countless interesting set locations as well as random events/encounters. For the vast "emptiness" of the wasteland, I never felt bored once. You can even essentially choose to not play the story at all and still have loads of fun. Definitely worth buying.
  24. rubanzomi
    Mar 13, 2014
    8
    This is a great game but I cant help but think it is vastly rated compared to fallout new vegas. I dont understand how fallout new vegas got an 8.3 but this game gets a 9.1 even if the graphics are the same new vegas has a superior story line and a much higher replay value.
  25. Onholyservicebo
    Feb 28, 2014
    4
    This is definitely a game where the user reviews reflect the quality far better than the critic reviews. As an FPS the game is slow and clunky, the weapons lack iron sights, and the enemies are hp sponges.(Human enemies can survive point blank headshots.) Vats is what you'll be using, a boring slow mo action sequence that's buggy and unreliable. As an RPG there is decent c&c, but characterThis is definitely a game where the user reviews reflect the quality far better than the critic reviews. As an FPS the game is slow and clunky, the weapons lack iron sights, and the enemies are hp sponges.(Human enemies can survive point blank headshots.) Vats is what you'll be using, a boring slow mo action sequence that's buggy and unreliable. As an RPG there is decent c&c, but character building is uninspired and many of the perks and stats have little to no effect on how you play the game.

    It's bug riddled, even with the patches, the ending is shoddy, and it isn't much better with DLC. All in all fairly mediocre, it does have scale on it's side, it's one of the larger games I've played, and the atmosphere is rather nice, otherwise don't bother with this game, it certainly doesn't stand the test of time, and likely only garnered universal acclaim because of it's sheer scale at the time of it's release.    … Expand
  26. lutteres
    Feb 8, 2014
    5
    I haven’t played the original fallout series (although I intend in the future). So, my review of fallout 3 (GOTY edition), is not contaminated by any feelings of nostalgia.

    ~Visuals (Grade 4 ) (Yes, I know this is a 2008 game, but compared with other AAA games from that time, fallout 3 doesn’t look very good in the visual department) - The Good: (Good modeling, especially the outdoor    I haven’t played the original fallout series (although I intend in the future). So, my review of fallout 3 (GOTY edition), is not contaminated by any feelings of nostalgia.

    ~Visuals (Grade 4 ) (Yes, I know this is a 2008 game, but compared with other AAA games from that time, fallout 3 doesn’t look very good in the visual department)
    - The Good: (Good modeling, especially the outdoor environments; Vast and varied outdoor map; Game world feels realistic)
    - The Bad: (Ugly textures; Poor indoor lighting; Limited color scheme (Only 3 prevalent colors: Brown, grey and black); Awful shadow effects (for AAA game at least); Repetitive Indoor maps (Buildings, underground structures, etc..); No dynamic weather; Clunky animations; Some graphic glitches (but not many); Still a bit buggy (Didn’t experience any crashes though))

    ~Sound (Grade 7)
    - The Good: (Realistic sound effects (especially the gun effects))
    - The Bad: (Uninspired voice acting; Generic and painfully repetitive soundtrack)

    ~Story (Grade 5)
    - The Good: (Mother ship Zeta DLC (Very nice story, it’s 7/10 compared with the rest of the game))
    - The Bad: (Generic story; Lack of focus; Uninspired writing; Uninteresting and boring characters)

    ~Gameplay – (Grade 6)
    -The Good: (Decent character creation options; Decent FPS mechanics; Satisfying kills; Fun (at least for the first 8 hours); Decent assortment of weapons and armors; Tons of places to see and explore; 100 hours worth of gameplay)
    -The Bad: (Unbalanced leveling up mechanics that make the game too easy (I have only died 5 or 6 times in 70 hours of playing this game, and that’s because I am not very good at FPS games); Over focus on action (shot first ask questions later mentality)/ few pacifist choices; Action with few tense moments or substance (that’s what happens when you have too much amo and med pack); Boring side quests; Choices didn’t felt that important in the overall scheme of thing; Unexciting loot (most of it is just useless junk); Useless stealth options (it’s always more efficient to just run and gun through a level); Stupid A.I. (The companions I.A. in particular, because they always get in the way).)

    ~Everything else – (Grade 10)
    -The Good: (Decent menu options; Tons of mods to experiment; DLC with good value)

    In conclusion: Despite its multiple faults, Fallout 3 can be fun at times, especially when exploring the cities, but the fun moments are few and far between.
    After 70 Hours of gameplay it left me with a “bad after taste”. It had potential to be great, and at times you can see glimpses of greatness, but unfortunately Bethesda has decided to give us quantity over quality, and the end result is not that great.
    If you like sand box games with tons of places to explore, and are willing to excuse the game’s bad story, awful visuals, zero challenge and repetitive fights. Than this might be a good distraction for you, at least for a few hours, but I recommend installing a few mods first, for the best experience.
    However, if you are looking for an exciting Sci-fi adventure, with interesting characters and story, skip this one and go buy Mass effect or Deus Ex.    … Expand
  27. Rivethead
    Feb 7, 2014
    0
    This game is **** Starting since player born till the player death at the end it looks like The Elder Scrolls Spin-off. The storyline is boring, game has some quests but they are crappy. When you want to buy the REAL FALLOUT you must buy Fallout: New-Vegas.
  28. Andrew_Paterson
    Jan 31, 2014
    10
    Fallout 3 is - 6 years down the line - probably my favourite game. It's also one of the only two games |I've given a 10 to here on Metacrtic.

    It's not perfect (crashing is a way of life) but the open world game-play gives the option for creating your own story or just mucking about that no other sandbox game I've played has yet managed to capture.
  29. TCTriangle
    Jan 17, 2014
    9
    What I have been waiting for in an Action RPG since Diablo 2: great difficulty and challenge, vast atmospheric world, tons of items, stats, and skills to customize, creative enemies, good story. A very addictive and memorable game overall.

    Only major flaw is the technical side of things: the game crashes more often than it should (about once every 2-3 hours), there are bugs and glitches    What I have been waiting for in an Action RPG since Diablo 2: great difficulty and challenge, vast atmospheric world, tons of items, stats, and skills to customize, creative enemies, good story. A very addictive and memorable game overall.

    Only major flaw is the technical side of things: the game crashes more often than it should (about once every 2-3 hours), there are bugs and glitches here and there, and it took over an hour to figure out how to get it working on Windows 8 in the first place. Overall though, well worth the money, time, and effort.    … Expand
  30. ArrowToTheHead
    Jan 13, 2014
    0
    for making me believe that this is gonna be a new fallout, well it makes me sad and shows, where the priority lies for bethesda. certainly not games.
    funny though, its not so bad a game on its own, and ironically the best use of their oblivion-engine(less melee). its in that tradition, so if you think skyrim and oblivion have good writing, interesting sidequests and npcs, go ahead, this    for making me believe that this is gonna be a new fallout, well it makes me sad and shows, where the priority lies for bethesda. certainly not games.
    funny though, its not so bad a game on its own, and ironically the best use of their oblivion-engine(less melee). its in that tradition, so if you think skyrim and oblivion have good writing, interesting sidequests and npcs, go ahead, this is what you want!

    its not what i like or want.    … Expand
  31. BiteSizeReviews
    Jan 13, 2014
    9
    Fallout 3 is a spectacle of a game! Putting you into the boots of a vault dweller being shoved out by the disappearance of your father in search for him, it truly makes you feel that you are in an apocalyptic Washington DC. The story is great and the adventure and survival aspect is a great change for the series. There is endless replayabiltity in this game and great side quests to furtherFallout 3 is a spectacle of a game! Putting you into the boots of a vault dweller being shoved out by the disappearance of your father in search for him, it truly makes you feel that you are in an apocalyptic Washington DC. The story is great and the adventure and survival aspect is a great change for the series. There is endless replayabiltity in this game and great side quests to further make this game a work of art!… Expand
  32. xAtlas
    Dec 27, 2013
    10
    This is one of my all-time favourite games. The story is captivating and there is SO much to do in the Capital Wasteland. There are many side-quests and freeform quests, and dozens of items to collect.
    The PC version, in my opinion, as far better than the console ports, mostly because of the controls. I find this game MUCH easier to play with a mouse rather than a controller.
    Also, the    This is one of my all-time favourite games. The story is captivating and there is SO much to do in the Capital Wasteland. There are many side-quests and freeform quests, and dozens of items to collect.
    The PC version, in my opinion, as far better than the console ports, mostly because of the controls. I find this game MUCH easier to play with a mouse rather than a controller.
    Also, the DLC is amazing. Each one adds at least two or three hours of gameplay, or even more.

    In short, if you like RPG games and/or action games, GET THIS GAME NOW.    … Expand
  33. franchert
    Dec 27, 2013
    10
    I will admit some bias as this was my first open-world go and do what you want game, but the moments that make you feel as though you are watching a movie instead of playing a game make this game worth it. The graphics make sense for its time, the characters you encounter are believable and you can relate with each of them, the combat is just difficult enough to make you work (while notI will admit some bias as this was my first open-world go and do what you want game, but the moments that make you feel as though you are watching a movie instead of playing a game make this game worth it. The graphics make sense for its time, the characters you encounter are believable and you can relate with each of them, the combat is just difficult enough to make you work (while not hindering you) and you want to go back to explore more even after beating the game.… Expand
  34. ThePandaBlaster
    Dec 22, 2013
    9
    Being a fan of the original Fallout games, I was skeptical at purchasing this. When I first started, I wasn't used to the FPS feature that was implemented. However, the game soon became astounding. Even though the landscape was kind of dull, the action and random encounters was appealing. Watching the world evolve with the choices you decided also made this game worth the 80+ hours I'veBeing a fan of the original Fallout games, I was skeptical at purchasing this. When I first started, I wasn't used to the FPS feature that was implemented. However, the game soon became astounding. Even though the landscape was kind of dull, the action and random encounters was appealing. Watching the world evolve with the choices you decided also made this game worth the 80+ hours I've spent on it.
    However, I crash on this game occasionally (more than any other game I've played) and the story line was kind of slow and boring.

    Overall, I give this game a 9/10 and was worth the $5 I spent on it.    … Expand
  35. WireRage
    Dec 15, 2013
    10
    I love this game. The customization is amazing, the world is huge and expansive and there isn't anywhere you can go without finding something interesting.
  36. valentino
    Dec 12, 2013
    10
    Loved this game when it first came out. The arsenal of weapons to choose from was immense, the gore, gameplay, exploration, scare factor, and graphics were all superb. Story could have been better but the good points about the game more than make up for any shortfalls in that area.
  37. Nexusepona
    Dec 9, 2013
    9
    A fun game to play, especially if you played Fallout 1 or 2 before. They managed to mix the old turn-based combat and skill very well with modern fps, I was suprised how good it works! The post apocalyptic feeling shines. You get a big sandbox gameplay with a not too interesting main plot, but with many creative and fun side quest, tons of items and characters to meet. I played it overA fun game to play, especially if you played Fallout 1 or 2 before. They managed to mix the old turn-based combat and skill very well with modern fps, I was suprised how good it works! The post apocalyptic feeling shines. You get a big sandbox gameplay with a not too interesting main plot, but with many creative and fun side quest, tons of items and characters to meet. I played it over twice, and also played all of the expansions as well. (Those were below the level of the main game, sadly, but still all right if you manage to buy them cheap.)… Expand
  38. Ehrees
    Dec 6, 2013
    5
    For those that have a PS3 or a Xbox 360, I recommend that you should buy this game for those platforms. The game is not bad, its just the crashing of the game for windows. For the first 1 minute of the game, crash! But, if you manage to get past the crashes, the game is good.
  39. Pilgrym
    Dec 3, 2013
    10
    This game is personally the greatest game I have ever played. With that being said, it is a game type and genre that goes well together for some gamers, and is seen as uninteresting and boring for others. Based on a nuclear war with China and America, survivors of the bombs funneled into these underground "Vaults" which were crazy social experiments to test human psychological andThis game is personally the greatest game I have ever played. With that being said, it is a game type and genre that goes well together for some gamers, and is seen as uninteresting and boring for others. Based on a nuclear war with China and America, survivors of the bombs funneled into these underground "Vaults" which were crazy social experiments to test human psychological and emotional well being. You play as a member of Vault 101, located in the Wasteland of form Washington D.C. and you are thrown right into the middle of something much larger than yourself. This game takes on a satirical and humorous view of the apocalypse, providing a fun perk system that makes everything more gory, or allowing roaming animals to come to your aid in a fight. On top of that, it has amazing game physics and graphics (note: that was like 5 years ago, its not like skyrim, but it is totally playable.). The overall sum of this review is this: Worth the $4-$20 you will spend to buy this. I actually believe that this is a crime against Bethesda to sell such a well developed and thought out game. Its immersive and has endless replayablity, I have logged over 700 hours and thats before you mod, which there are so many good mods for the game that add a Zombie virus or add extra companions. A MUST HAVE GAME FOR ANYONE WHO LOVES RPGS OR ANY VIDEO GAMES IN GENERAL. If you don't like this game, I apologize and think you should just go back to Call of Duty, because i'm sure you think that's the best game ever.… Expand
  40. Sloanster
    Nov 19, 2013
    10
    #1 Game in Post-Apocalyptic Simulation. Fallout captures everything you want from a nuked-out D.C. Bethesda has put out yet another great game and this will surely stand the test of time.
  41. Pistolz4Pandaz
    Nov 19, 2013
    9
    Probably my favourite game of all time. There is so much to do in this game, and the DLC is very well done. Some of the DLC content is a little on the strange side, but is a nice change of thematic pace from the rest of the game. There are MANY locations, and lots of side quests that make the game very enjoyable. There are even small (I would say kinda hidden) quests that don't really addProbably my favourite game of all time. There is so much to do in this game, and the DLC is very well done. Some of the DLC content is a little on the strange side, but is a nice change of thematic pace from the rest of the game. There are MANY locations, and lots of side quests that make the game very enjoyable. There are even small (I would say kinda hidden) quests that don't really add much to the game, but are good for completionists. Overall, a must play that will keep fans of RPGs engaged for a while.… Expand
  42. keefbaker
    Nov 12, 2013
    10
    Probably Bethesda's finest hour. The absolute.. hands down.. best first person open world game on the planet. Blows everything else away and also carries on a universe I'd already fell in love with while playing the previous titles in the series. Magnificent.
  43. Tib3rian
    Nov 12, 2013
    9
    Bethesda really knew that their style could be good for return of this legend. They`re got open world exploration, they`re got humor. Together with authentic visuals style and postnuclear atmosphere, they`re did something unbelievable.
    Right now, I`m slowely starting play Fallout 2. I remember this game from late 90`, because my Cousin played it. What I want to say is, that F3 has not    Bethesda really knew that their style could be good for return of this legend. They`re got open world exploration, they`re got humor. Together with authentic visuals style and postnuclear atmosphere, they`re did something unbelievable.
    Right now, I`m slowely starting play Fallout 2. I remember this game from late 90`, because my Cousin played it. What I want to say is, that F3 has not that aspects of free world as his predecessor. Aspects what made him a legend. But has a great atmosphere, visual style, charakter creation, weapons, Story. Everything of this is make completely in original Fallout style. I`ve never played a game like this. Is not a legend, but one of the most incredible game of it`s generation.    … Expand
  44. cheRRymonk
    Oct 30, 2013
    0
    The worst first-person Fallout game you could imagine! Small game map, oblivion-like instances, bad skill balance, horrible graphics (even old Fallout isometric graphics looks better), combats are extremely boring, VATS is nothing here while you have a high skilled character after 13 of game and a 99% headshot chance...
  45. grinnin
    Oct 22, 2013
    0
    The developers of this game refuse to do any kind of work to support the game with Windows 7 or higher. So, as soon as you upgrade your rig you can kiss this game goodbye.
  46. Banhammer0
    Oct 20, 2013
    8
    The Good, The Bad and the Ugly

    ++ A huge open-world that rewards exploration ++ Ton of mods to choose from, expanding the game tremendously + Total freedom, kill anyone you like, help anyone you like, game is not forcing a path on you + A fair amount of quests, enemies, places to go, items to obtain + More than one way to solve problems and overcome obstacles (eg. combat or sneaking    The Good, The Bad and the Ugly

    ++ A huge open-world that rewards exploration
    ++ Ton of mods to choose from, expanding the game tremendously
    + Total freedom, kill anyone you like, help anyone you like, game is not forcing a path on you
    + A fair amount of quests, enemies, places to go, items to obtain
    + More than one way to solve problems and overcome obstacles (eg. combat or sneaking or using skills like science etc)
    + Probably the most immersive character introduction I've seen in an RPG game (game starts when you're born and continues through your childhood)

    . The game approach to post-apocalyptic theme is a bit light-hearted and not everyone might like it, but less than in Fallout New Vegas where it was to a point I considered it a major flaw. It's hard to explain, but to put a long story short the game technologically feels like the future but culturally like 1950s making a bizarre setting

    - Despite a huge world there are only 2 true towns in the world, and the rest of the world is either empty or outright hostile (eg. raider camps) making it feel boring after long exploration
    - Main quest is only fit for a good character or a neutral one, but not really for evil characters (however there is an evil ending option to it)
    - Braindead enemies offering little challenge to the player

    Overall: Recommended for RPG fans and post-apo theme fans but not the most hardcore ones    … Expand
  47. TheGamer31
    Oct 11, 2013
    7
    As much as I love this game, it just turned in the wrong direction. It doesn't really feel like a Fallout game, but more like a completely new game. This game is the Fallout game of Empire: Total War basically.
  48. tvaughanx89
    Sep 26, 2013
    10
    amazing game you will play through once a year to re-experience at least that's what i do!

    This is a game other games aspire to be a game that captures all the right elements an engages the abundance with pure entertainment an exuberant experience. You will feel like you are in the waste land the you become attached to your protagonist through the customization of him or her seeing that    amazing game you will play through once a year to re-experience at least that's what i do!

    This is a game other games aspire to be a game that captures all the right elements an engages the abundance with pure entertainment an exuberant experience. You will feel like you are in the waste land the you become attached to your protagonist through the customization of him or her seeing that he or she is silent witch is what a rpg character should be.    … Expand
  49. cub317
    Sep 26, 2013
    9
    Well, it took me a few playthroughs of this game, but I have finally reached a verdict. This game is just amazing! It is another fantastic game that I've played from Bethesda Softworks. Fallout 3 is a truly spectacular game that successfully combines both the RPG and First-Person Shooter genres. That line can sum up the game's gameplay in a nutshell. This game mixes Fallout's ownWell, it took me a few playthroughs of this game, but I have finally reached a verdict. This game is just amazing! It is another fantastic game that I've played from Bethesda Softworks. Fallout 3 is a truly spectacular game that successfully combines both the RPG and First-Person Shooter genres. That line can sum up the game's gameplay in a nutshell. This game mixes Fallout's own roleplaying mechanics with that of Bethesda's Elder Scrolls franchise. In this game, you can be whatever kind of character you want, and do what you want in the wasteland that was once Washington D.C. As in the Elder Scrolls, you can travel anywhere you want in the capital wasteland, buy what you want, fast-travel where you want, and so much more. This is hardly an Elder Scrolls clone however. This is not just Oblivion with guns, not in the slightest. There are several more things that this game has that the Elder Scrolls does not. This game has its own perk system (which was actually added into the Elder Scrolls Skyrim), that makes it different from Oblivion. The perks are special specific stats for your character that Oblivion does not have. They can give your character special bonuses, such as doing more damage than you normally would with all weapons. Leveling is also different from Oblivion. In Oblivion, you could only level up while your character was sleeping. Here, your character levels up almost immediately. This is an excellent improvement from Oblivion, as I did not like how you had to sleep just to level up. It proves that Bethesda Softworks truly is a company that learns from its mistakes. Also, along with the RPG elements, there are also shooter elements, which further cement that this is a truly different game from Oblivion. There are plenty of guns to choose from in this game, and the shooter mechanics are executed perfectly. However, I do find myself constantly running out of ammo from time to time. Money is also very scarce in this game, so it is a little difficult to buy ammo too. There are also a few bugs and glitches, however, these shortcomings don't hurt the game all that much. The graphics and sound of this game, all I can say is, they are excellent. This game is one of the most beautiful looking video games that I have ever played/seen. It is not Skyrim or Just Cause 2, but it does look brilliant nonetheless. The sound of this game is also done very well. The weapons sound right, and the monsters sound the way they should. The best part about the sound of this game however, is its spectacular music. This game mixes songs from the 50s (and yes, I mean actual songs from the 50s, not ones that sound like songs from the 50s) with more orchestrated pieces from the composers of the Elder Scrolls franchise. The soundtrack of this game truly is a beautiful mix. The story of this game is also phenomenal. It involves the main character's father trying to give the wasteland of Washington D.C. fresh water for all who inhabit the wasteland. It is up to you, the main character to leave your vault, find your father, and help him in giving the wasteland fresh water. This is a very unique story if you ask me, and it not the stereotypical story that people might find in most post-apocalyptic games. There are also many choices that your character can make throughout the game that will determine what people think of the character through the game's karma system. These decisions will effect what happens in the game's main story. Good actions will make everyone love your character, while bad actions will make them hate your character. This system is done very well, as it is very easy for your character to change from good to evil and then back again, unlike most games with systems like this. It also has a system called V.A.T.S. which was also in the first two Fallout games (that I was unfortunate enough not to play), that allows you to pause the action, and aim for specific body parts on the enemy. This is a really good system, and I'm happy it was used. Overall, I'd say that this game is fantastic. If you love a good first-person shooter, or role-playing game, you should definitely consider buying this game. It is every bit as amazing an experience as The Elder Scrolls IV Oblivion, and more than deserving of a nine out of ten.… Expand
  50. askewreviews
    Sep 10, 2013
    7
    Muddy textures made uglier by the game's green colour filter. The story is pretty basic and full of really gaping plotholes culminating in one of the most illogical endings in video game history. The gunplay is basic and due to the lack of iron sights and accuracy penalties when firing from the hip, VATS is incredibly overpowered. In Fallout 1 and 2, you could target specific points on anMuddy textures made uglier by the game's green colour filter. The story is pretty basic and full of really gaping plotholes culminating in one of the most illogical endings in video game history. The gunplay is basic and due to the lack of iron sights and accuracy penalties when firing from the hip, VATS is incredibly overpowered. In Fallout 1 and 2, you could target specific points on an enemy but it wasn't a gamebreaking mechanic because those titles were turn-based. Here you can just spam the VATS button, aim for the head because nothing else is worth shooting at and repeat.… Expand
  51. HONDOMAN
    Sep 9, 2013
    8
    Fallout 3 was a fantastic game. I had never played the previous games, but this one looked promising. The story is superb and adventuring is a boat load of fun. This game, however, lacks the whole post-apocalyptic feel. Sure it looks like a wasteland, but it doesn't feel like one. I didn't feel like I needed to survive. Ammo was too plentiful, and I never say that. The story made up forFallout 3 was a fantastic game. I had never played the previous games, but this one looked promising. The story is superb and adventuring is a boat load of fun. This game, however, lacks the whole post-apocalyptic feel. Sure it looks like a wasteland, but it doesn't feel like one. I didn't feel like I needed to survive. Ammo was too plentiful, and I never say that. The story made up for this and the game was just great fun.… Expand
  52. qwertyy
    Sep 8, 2013
    9
    although it is old,i played for whole 2008(that time i still not know what is authorized game or how to get,china is such xxxxx country(support pirated CD） ,at last at 2010 i s=know steam through cod6 then i bought fallout3 too at Christmas day and till now i want play it again)

    i prefer the main story of fallout3,better than FNV i think,and i prefer aim like this,though iron sight is    although it is old,i played for whole 2008(that time i still not know what is authorized game or how to get,china is such xxxxx country(support pirated CD） ,at last at 2010 i s=know steam through cod6 then i bought fallout3 too at Christmas day and till now i want play it again)

    i prefer the main story of fallout3,better than FNV i think,and i prefer aim like this,though iron sight is real,but it is more playable and comfortable to use without that.
    a freedom game and dlc is very nice,with mods it is better but unstable
    without the mods it is still very very nice,with the mod and if u can handle well without freeze or crash,it will be perfect    … Expand
  53. trollololololol
    Sep 7, 2013
    7
    Take the Elder Scrolls, reskin it to look like Fallout, give it really terrible shooting gameplay, give it a pretty weak story, mediocre voice acting, mediocre writing, enemies that are way too easy to kill, a ridiculous amount of bugs and a lame system to try to hide the fact that the gameplay is crap, and you get Fallout 3. It may not be bad, but it certainly isn't good. This game isTake the Elder Scrolls, reskin it to look like Fallout, give it really terrible shooting gameplay, give it a pretty weak story, mediocre voice acting, mediocre writing, enemies that are way too easy to kill, a ridiculous amount of bugs and a lame system to try to hide the fact that the gameplay is crap, and you get Fallout 3. It may not be bad, but it certainly isn't good. This game is just average.… Expand
  54. dummyn45
    Sep 4, 2013
    10
    I love this game. I think it's the best game of the century. I know that there are some glitches and bugs, but it is not so important, because this game is really awesome
  55. Condor
    Sep 2, 2013
    8
    8.4/10. Just like The Last of Us, it has a wonderful feel that you really can't put your finger on. The setting is remarkably different from TLOU, as the game satisfies a 50s-perception-of-the-future-plus-bombs, but how hopeless the world feels is simply beautiful as a setting, and this setting is dominant in both games. With that being said, this game does have a few obvious flaws.

    For    8.4/10. Just like The Last of Us, it has a wonderful feel that you really can't put your finger on. The setting is remarkably different from TLOU, as the game satisfies a 50s-perception-of-the-future-plus-bombs, but how hopeless the world feels is simply beautiful as a setting, and this setting is dominant in both games. With that being said, this game does have a few obvious flaws.

    For one, the story. It's a roleplaying game; the story should not be linear, and it should give your character a blank state instead of forcing you into a story you may not want (a.k.a the Vault 101 backstory). The other is the forced system. VATS should be a choice, not something you are forced into. Sure, you don't have to hit "V" every time you enter combat, but you'd might as well, considering that there are no iron sights.

    Voice acting was heavily recycled; they should have hired more voice actors instead of having the same guy voicing almost half of the characters in the game. The world size is nice, but it's mostly the same designs recycled over and over again. Fallout 4 has a ton of potential, if it combines what is good about Fallout 3 and New Vegas alike.    … Expand
  56. Ruston
    Aug 30, 2013
    9
    A little worse than Fallout NV but it's still a great game. If you need some atmospheric FPS/RPG game, that's for you dear gamer. You won't regret it.
  57. cidgrad01
    Aug 28, 2013
    10
    I played the original two Fallout games back in the day on PC, and I will always love Fallout 3. One of the greatest games I’ve ever played, hands-down.

    I’d say, however, that you need to understand what type of a game you’re getting into. It’s a technical RPG, very open world, and will require lots & lots of exploring. This is not a simple first-person-shooter. Anyone expecting a FPS    I played the original two Fallout games back in the day on PC, and I will always love Fallout 3. One of the greatest games I’ve ever played, hands-down.

    I’d say, however, that you need to understand what type of a game you’re getting into. It’s a technical RPG, very open world, and will require lots & lots of exploring. This is not a simple first-person-shooter. Anyone expecting a FPS will end up quite frustrated, as will anyone who jumps into the game without planning how to level their character.

    Taking all that in mind, Fallout 3 was an immersive experience of gaming bliss I do not expect to be equaled any time soon. Possibly not ever. There was something about walking out of the vault into the unknown wasteland with nothing but a pistol, baseball bat & a few rounds of ammo in my pocket that was great fun. I also loved how, in the middle of traveling to one destination, I could easily find myself sidetracked for days at a time with random waypoint markers that led to other events & new quests.

    The design of the game is beautiful, as well. One of my favorite areas is looking across at the aircraft carrier at night, because you can see holes in the walls where light is shining through from the people living there, as well as gazing at other details like the wrecked part of the front ship or the giant trenches dug all around the Mall near the Washington Monument.

    Some of the environments do get a bit repetitive, but as long as you are leveling you have a reason to explore. And whatever area you’re in, whether a cave or abandoned warehouse, usually has some sort of story to go along with it that can be found by hacking into computers & reading some information. It’s not necessary but adds some depth & life to world you’re playing in.
    As I said, it makes for a very immersive experience.

    The difficulty also scales satisfactorily. In the beginning, you’ll be happy to get a junky machine pistol and survive a handful of raiders. Near the end (with proper builds), you’ll be able to decimate an entire band of raiders with VATS sniper rifle headshots, watching them explode in slo-mo as you do so.

    The only real disappointment I had was once I reached maxed level, but that was only because Fallout 3 makes leveling feel like quite an event, even playing a special musical theme to mark the occasion. However, it will take you a good while to hit max level and you’ll have done a great deal of exploration by then.    … Expand
  58. bespread
    Aug 7, 2013
    10
    This is downright my favorite game of all time. Granted it didnt make me feel as much as some other games did, but the storyline, quests, choices, dlc, and overall gameplay made up for it greatly. Every quest i could feel myself really get into it. I can allways remember thinking to myself what would be behind the next corner, and when i think that the building i was exploring was depletedThis is downright my favorite game of all time. Granted it didnt make me feel as much as some other games did, but the storyline, quests, choices, dlc, and overall gameplay made up for it greatly. Every quest i could feel myself really get into it. I can allways remember thinking to myself what would be behind the next corner, and when i think that the building i was exploring was depleted of "goodies" id realised i missed an entire level. The map itself could win awards. Its vastness could make you lose yourself in it for hours on end. Ive beaten this game several times allready, and have accomplished every achievment for it including the dlc's, and have put well over 500 hours of gameplay into this masterpiece. For the people who say that its horrible because of its never ending glitches; i pity you. I can recolect on countless nights stayng up to 3 or 4 in the morining laughing histarically at the mysterious glitches this game has to offer. The fighting system is also top notch. This is the only game series I know that allows you to stop time and pick your target for your shot. Dont even get me started on the weapons, i would spend countless nights trying to find special weapons and ammunition. The leveling system is also just superb. Itd take me 10 minutes to just figure out which perk id want. "Do i want this one to get more xp, or this one to make myself a better fighter". Its just magnificent. And the companions uhhhhhhhhh the companions. I remember dogmeat specifically. He was the best friend a person could have wondering through the wastes. He fought enemies for you, found you ammo, and health, and he was damn near invincible. When i lost him for the first time it brought me to tears (thank god for his puppies!!!!). There is no other game i love more than this one, and i can not wait for four!!!!… Expand
  59. Gamespro
    Aug 7, 2013
    7
    This game is a very fun first person rpg and I reccomend this game to anyone who can play through with bugs.The bugs really deduct the experience as some may even be game breaking, that's why i'm deducting 3 points from this but overall good game
  60. Jonathan117
    Aug 5, 2013
    10
    Fallout 3 is and always will be one of the best RPG's of all time, it's amazing combat, cool graphics and great story all make up for an epic experience that almost no other games can topple.
  61. MysteriousRage
    Aug 1, 2013
    8
    I'll do a pros and cons for this review.

    Pros: 1.) Atmosphere- While Fallout 3 had a different atmosphere than the original two, 3 still provides a great atmosphere and feel of the game. I really liked large amount 50s vibe it had to it. The 50s diners, cars, buildings, houses. This gives the game a unique twist and it defiantly makes 3 stand out from the pack. It's also gives a twist    I'll do a pros and cons for this review.

    Pros:
    1.) Atmosphere- While Fallout 3 had a different atmosphere than the original two, 3 still provides a great atmosphere and feel of the game. I really liked large amount 50s vibe it had to it. The 50s diners, cars, buildings, houses. This gives the game a unique twist and it defiantly makes 3 stand out from the pack. It's also gives a twist of irony of the 1950s 'life is good' feel to the bleak world you're in.

    2.) The little things- Small things like leaving the Vault for the first time, hearing the wind whistle as you travel through the wastes, Dogmeat, Harold being a full tree, walking into Springvale for the first time, or the rust broken look of the hunting rifle, the list can go on. These small things really brings out some cool things that can really immerse you into the world and give a feeling of the atmosphere and the game in general.

    3.) Soundtrack, both radio and the OST- I don't like Three Dog, but I do like the playlist. Most of the songs on the radio fit perfectly into Fallout 3's world it's almost unbelievable. It really contributes to bringing the wasteland too life. In fact, most of these songs are 'feel good' music of America's post World War II prosperity and again, it goes back to the irony of the 'feel good' music in a desolate wastes.

    4.) Wasteland- It's well detailed and looks great. Every location has a something in it and the distinct 50s style brings it too life.

    CONS
    1.) Story- My god is it awful. It violates the definition of an RPG game with choices. It's short, linear, and the choices you make are virtually non existent. The story forces you to play the hero and side with the good guys and make all the right choices. Not very much flexibility.

    2.) Characters. Good characters can make a poor story better. But that's not the case. Most characters are generic and 2-D. They share the same personality and sometimes there voices seemed phoned in.
    With James and among other character, it forces a personal attachment on you and the game plays off of that regardless whether you actually care about them or not.

    3.) Black and white morality. The game assumes you want to play hero and almost expects you too. At least story wise. I don't know, it just seems to lean towards being a good guy. You can still commit heinous acts, but if you've seen some of the dialogue options and how the story plays, you'll understand.

    Still Fallout 3 is a good game, great in fact. It captures an immersive bleak, 50s style post apocalyptic DC that's just a joy to explore (despite the oh so many metro tunels).

    As for the DLCS- Operation Anchorage is the worst, as it leans toward a boring linear shooter and the rewards make the game way to easy. Mothership Zeta is the second worst, as the whole alien ship thing seems a bit wacky, even for Fallout 3.
    Broken Steel is a must, as it lets you continue on from the ending. The story for isn't too bad either.
    Point Lookout and The Pitt are the best. Capturing great atmosphere, characters, and story. The Pitt being the best as it forces you into a convincing moral dilemma.    … Expand
  62. iseeall
    Jul 29, 2013
    3
    Trash and disgrace to the name. It's a mediocre shooter game, except that you will miss even if your cursor is exactly on the target since your skill with guns isn't high enough. Nice graphics, sure, but the gameplay is way out of anything related to Fallout. I didn't play it past the starting location and I am sure there is nothing more to see in this game. The developers are just anotherTrash and disgrace to the name. It's a mediocre shooter game, except that you will miss even if your cursor is exactly on the target since your skill with guns isn't high enough. Nice graphics, sure, but the gameplay is way out of anything related to Fallout. I didn't play it past the starting location and I am sure there is nothing more to see in this game. The developers are just another league compared to the creators of the original Fallout 1 and 2 games. If you want to make a shooter game, name it different, why take "Fallout" and anger the fans?… Expand
  63. vence
    Jul 22, 2013
    8
    Fantastic game about a post nuclear holocaust world, really not many games explore such theme, and Fallout 3 did it with brio, basically if you like RPGs and exploring this is a game for you.
  64. Slone
    Jul 20, 2013
    8
    Although the original fallout game had a very rich and rather detailed universe, a lot was left to our imagination due to the graphical and technical limitations of the game at that time. A lot was guessed or completed by our imagination, because we couldn't see that much of that world, or of those characters. Therefore, it was obviously a challenge recreating this world in 3D with theAlthough the original fallout game had a very rich and rather detailed universe, a lot was left to our imagination due to the graphical and technical limitations of the game at that time. A lot was guessed or completed by our imagination, because we couldn't see that much of that world, or of those characters. Therefore, it was obviously a challenge recreating this world in 3D with the subjective point of view you have with a traditional FPS. A lot was added to this world, although sometimes you do get the feeling of seeing bits of oblivion remixed in this Mad Max environment. Nonetheless, it's truly a great feeling to wander in these landscapes with the sunlight changing all the time, the moonlight taking over. You have a huge pleasure discovering new places, exploring and searching for small treasures or hints for a possible new adventure.

    Actually, the game gives you so much, it makes you wish you could have some more. After hours and hours of playing it, I wished there could be more different weathers, like rain or thunder, that would affect stealth for example and then I wished there could be seasons that would bring changes in how you could navigate or fight in certain areas; or what species you would be more likely to encounter in the wild, etc. The game succeeds in being immersing, capturing your imagination, making you feel like being there; which makes all the things you would expect in real life more lacking than in any other games.

    There are many great ideas like Agatha's song quests and its outcome. This kind of idea is wonderful and does make your imagination works a lot. And that's why you end up wishing it could have been even better. Same for the what your minds make you see in a certain vault.

    We lost the turn-based combat system of the original Fallouts. And well I haven't missed it as much as I would have expected. It's a common mistake we, fallout fans, have made we have tended to think that the turn-based combat system was essential to the fallout spirit. In the end, it was just a way to render RPG combat that probably was more suitable for the interface we had. In fallout 3, combat are more nervous, and somehow, more fun. It's true that in many cases, you can't apply any kind of strategy, and VATS tends to feel like a convenient way to reminds you that you're not playing an FPS, and helps in reminding how good or bad your characer is at using that particular weapon.

    Unlike what I've read in some other review, aiming an opponent's arm or leg will make a difference in how they move or fight. Crippling their heads makes their aim a lot more random. The only problem is you don't get to enjoy much of these advantages against common foes as them having a crippled member usually means they're one shot away from dying.

    Some of the negatives :
    - lots of glitches and bugs that can be quite annoying,
    - many quests are not that interesting, and feels more like an embryo of an idea.
    - The game lacks some obvious mechanisms. Whatever your character's specialization might be, he/she can wear any type of armor. Playing a stealthy ninja with a Tesla armor shouldn't be possible, should it ?
    - your character can become excellent in almost every skills and somehow the game doesn't give you any other way to fully enjoy all its secrets.
    - Companions are nice but limited and either cumbersome or way too powerful (especially with the add-ons, dogmeat becomes invulnerable for example). I would have rather see more specialized companions. Like, if you're no good in unlocking computers, you could hire a computer genius to do the cracking for you, which would have allowed a more specialized character evolution. Most of the time, I'm walking with Fawkes who does an excellent job as a mule, but who is very annoying in how he tends to shoot everything in sight without any sense of nuance. Shooting Radroaches with a laser gatling isn't really necessary, is it ?

    There are a lots of shortcomings that I could list but most of them would fit better in a wishlist for a future game. For example, I wish character's interaction would be more credible. For instance, what you wear doesn't change how people sees you. I wish I could put an enclave armor to pretend I am from the enclave, or that my ghoul mask would put people off, or that Derek would react differently when I'm wearing the mechanist armor. As immersive this game might be, those kinds of details tend to kill that.

    All in all, this game was a very ambitious game and while it doesn't entirely fulfill all its promises, it does give you an experience like none other. It's still one of the best games I've ever played. I'm 40 and I've played video games since I was 9. :D

    The PC version looks a lot better than the PS3 version, but the PS3 manages to be very enjoyable and provides some eye candies.    … Expand
  65. Tomisbad
    Jul 18, 2013
    0
    If you like to consume fresh feces then you will like to play this game, however if you don't like eating fresh feces then don't play this game. Daniel Nem Singh does not approve of this game.
  66. Stepanchi
    Jul 7, 2013
    9
    In Bethesda, to their credit, do not lie the game just squeezed an incredible number of recognizable elements, Fallout 3 is similar to its predecessors, if you look closely, much more than the same Gothic 3 on its own. A larger-then do not.
  67. player4321
    Jul 6, 2013
    9
    A simplified review for novice gamers
    Graphics:
    Stunning when i saw the white house i was just blown away but some character animations needed more work and face expressions Sound: Great but for some reason i miss the music while you just wander around the world As for the voice acting, every voice for every character feels realistic Story: Fun but very short the game also ends    A simplified review for novice gamers
    Graphics:
    Stunning when i saw the white house i was just blown away but some character animations needed more work and face expressions
    Sound:
    Great but for some reason i miss the music while you just wander around the world
    As for the voice acting, every voice for every character feels realistic
    Story:
    Fun but very short the game also ends after finishing the last quest
    Game play:
    Incredible tons of quests to finish and areas to explore but sometimes you might not be able to find the reply you are looking for when interacting with a npc but still its not very bad
    Overall Fallout 3 is a must get and if you are not sure rent it if you can and try it.    … Expand
  68. Kunrya
    Jun 27, 2013
    7
    If it wouldn't be for all the glitches, Fallout 3 would be one of the best games ever. It's exactly what an open-world should be; looks great, handles great and keeps you coming back for more exploration. Unfortunately, exploring becomes difficult when load screens take up 10 minute blocks of time and your character and frame rate lag.
  69. Velorockman
    Jun 27, 2013
    8
    This post-apocalyptic game is one of my favorite games, I have spent 35 hours of my life sitting on my couch lost in the unique post-apocalyptic open world of fallout 3. the one bad part is the fact that you can't continue playing the game after you beat the campaign unless you buy the Broken Steel dlc, which is a really lame move by Bethesda
  70. braeden
    Jun 25, 2013
    9
    Fallout 3 is immersive, dark and fun RPG game that has tons of things to do and explore. The game takes place in post-apocalyptic Washington DC where several factions like supermutants, raiders, vault dwellers, brotherhood of steal etc. live in uneasy coexistence.

    It possible to play this game strictly by following the plot, but the main plot is somewhat short and strictly speaking    Fallout 3 is immersive, dark and fun RPG game that has tons of things to do and explore. The game takes place in post-apocalyptic Washington DC where several factions like supermutants, raiders, vault dwellers, brotherhood of steal etc. live in uneasy coexistence.

    It possible to play this game strictly by following the plot, but the main plot is somewhat short and strictly speaking there are better plot-driven games. The real fun of Fallout is open-ended exploration. The game world is huge and has more than enough stuff to do,

    Although the game is very dark, everything is done tongue in cheek. This includes many subplots (e.g. Wasteland survival guide missions intended as tutorial are often outright hilarious), character development system and violence which is so excessive it becomes ridiculous (in a good way). The games also offers tons of different weapons and skills.

    Main problem with this game is the low-level cap of 20, which is reached very early in the game (especially if you like exploration). Broken Steel DLC increases this to 30, which is still low but alleviates the problem to some extent.

    To sum it up, Fallout 3 is definitely worth buying if you like exploration, RPG, excessive violence and silly dark humor. It offers tons of playtime and good value for your money.    … Expand
  71. Toffenuff
    Jun 19, 2013
    10
    Post-apocalyptic open world FPS-RPG with an epic storyline where your actions actually influence and impact what happens in the world and how you advance the story (first town of Atom, anyone?) while also providing great and memorable characters and decent action? Sign me up!

    Buggy, but beautiful. Gameplay and combat could be better, but definitely still enjoyable. NOTICE: Would've    Post-apocalyptic open world FPS-RPG with an epic storyline where your actions actually influence and impact what happens in the world and how you advance the story (first town of Atom, anyone?) while also providing great and memorable characters and decent action? Sign me up!

    Buggy, but beautiful. Gameplay and combat could be better, but definitely still enjoyable. NOTICE: Would've rated this a 9 were it not for the fact that this really got me hooked into playing open world RPG games, and RPG games in general actually, so this game does have added special value to me and in my eyes deserves a bump because of that.    … Expand
  72. Mutini
    Jun 15, 2013
    10
    Considering its release date, I think FO3 should rate about an 8. Despite a few issues, its a great game that is very huge and offers so much to do(especially with all the player created mods and so forth). So why did I rate it a 10? I see some other reviewers in here literally admitted to rating the game at "0" for the sole reason to influence its overall score down to something "they"Considering its release date, I think FO3 should rate about an 8. Despite a few issues, its a great game that is very huge and offers so much to do(especially with all the player created mods and so forth). So why did I rate it a 10? I see some other reviewers in here literally admitted to rating the game at "0" for the sole reason to influence its overall score down to something "they" believe it should be. Its like they are spoiled little brats who spit on a cake cause they don't want anyone else to like it if they don't. Anyway, their tactic works both ways. I gave the game a 10 to counter some of their false scores. That means their score and my score cancel each other out but I can live with that … Expand
  73. guyofdude
    May 25, 2013
    9
    Bravo Bethesda, Bravo. This game was logged as over 10 hours the first night I purchased it. If you're reading this for decisions of purchase, I highly recommend it. When you choose to speak with a being, you are given plenty of options, and decisions. As far as travel, fluid controls, and RPG elements, I give them 10/10. As far as you play this game, it is impossible to see the game wasBravo Bethesda, Bravo. This game was logged as over 10 hours the first night I purchased it. If you're reading this for decisions of purchase, I highly recommend it. When you choose to speak with a being, you are given plenty of options, and decisions. As far as travel, fluid controls, and RPG elements, I give them 10/10. As far as you play this game, it is impossible to see the game was made in 2008. It looks like the graphics from Bioshock Infinite! When you play this game, it is impossible to do everything that is possible in the game. As far as character customization, you can select your facial type, hair, hair color, eyes, and even have traits like strength, agility, etc. I would give the game a 10/10, but there is just something about the game when you're playing it, that just makes you get off. This is better than Fallout: New Vegas because, this one is the more post-apocalyptic feel of a world. New Vegas has that element in some areas, but overall it is just too civilized. I love this game. And if I lost my data in this game, I would throw my PC out the window!… Expand
  74. phdr_vrba
    May 16, 2013
    6
    I was never quite fond of Bethesda-made RPGs: Morrowind felt like an utter chore and despite several attempts I could never force myslef to whitstand the tedium of slo-mo hiking for more than few hours. Oblivion was kinda fun, but only stealthing through dungeons, really. rest of the game felt sterile, copy-pasted and NPC were (and still are in all their RPG games) a joke. So obviously II was never quite fond of Bethesda-made RPGs: Morrowind felt like an utter chore and despite several attempts I could never force myslef to whitstand the tedium of slo-mo hiking for more than few hours. Oblivion was kinda fun, but only stealthing through dungeons, really. rest of the game felt sterile, copy-pasted and NPC were (and still are in all their RPG games) a joke. So obviously I wasn't sure what to think, when I found out that Bethesda got their hand on Fallout series, which I loved and Fallout 2 is imo still one of the best RPGs of all time, second only to Planescape: Torment. Then the teaser trailer came out and I was thrilled, for the mood was just right.

    Then all the gameplay interviews with that Todd Howard came out and watching him launching teddy bears and mini nukes on orc-like supermutants, while stating how he and the team love original Fallout series sew the seeds of doubt.

    In the end, things ended up better than expected, as Fallout 3 got many things right and it was no doubt the best Bethesda RPG released at the time. On the other hand, it was also still the worst Fallout game, should I ommit the Brotherhood of Steel piece of crap that came out on PS2.

    Point is, that even with VATS, randomized loot, and new pipboy aside (which are both crippled alternatives to what FO1/2 had to offer), the core stuff was just..wel... not really there. NPC had little to no character (although at least one could have an actual dialog with them), quests were mostly flashy stuff with zero substance and had zero influence on wasteland beyond their respective locations. And the main story was just pathetic, as water shortage was never a thing outside the Vault 13 of FO1 and Modoc village of FO2. Wasteland has never seemed to care about how clean is their water supply and so I could never take the main quest too seriusly. Then Enclave came into picture with their own plans and I was like 'why did we even bother.'

    It sorta had the right atmosphere, but it just was meh, wrong in its design. And yet kiddos and critics love it, happily ignoring the existence and greatness of the first two games. I can understand the kids who were simply too young to play or appreciate the qualities of first two Fallout games, but from proffesional critics who often played games for longer time than I am even alive, I would expect their experience to reflect on FO3 and comparison to FO2 should have been made where possible. Hell or even with other, newer, great RPG games, because FO3 simply is not one of those. And instead they were drooling all over it like a bunch or retarded kids. And mind you it is not like the greatness of the old Fallout games wasn't relevant anymore, New Vegas has proven that much.

    So here we are, drolling over this cripple of a Fallout game, ignoring great FO1/2 games for being too old and whining over bugs in New Vegas the one which brought much of that greatness back to present day. How can I take the co called proffesionals seriously, if they act like the '3' at the end got there by some silly accident?    … Expand
  75. Klewer
    May 13, 2013
    9
    A very good story driven in a great and challenging atmosphere, with interesting gameplay and mechanics.

    A must for any FPS and RPG fan rolled in to one.
  76. mastergene
    May 9, 2013
    10
    as one of my favorite games iam shocked how poor it run's on newer systems for a game in 2008 you suspect it wil handle pc's for quie a while wel it dons't every 30mins or so it crashes this is unplayable as for bethesda doenst give a to fix this and yea i searcht for the fix and tryet to fix it)
    as a jewel its becoming a piece of as the years pas only by technical issues
  77. SirDrake
    Apr 29, 2013
    10
    I can see bugs everywhere....
    But beyond this fog of crashes there is an absolute masterpiece.
    Not so hard to complete, but it's impossible to stop to play it .

    If you can play it, you must love it.
  78. PreWarp
    Apr 26, 2013
    9
    I've lost count of the amount of time's Ive played this game and found something or seen something I hadn't in past play thru's. This game is a must have for any RPG or FPS fan.
  79. vintagegamer16
    Apr 19, 2013
    10
    This is Fallout 3! What has to be one of my favrite games of this modern generation in video gaming! Everything about this game is great! The storyline, side questions alike! ALL OF IT! GAMEPLAY I LOVE IT ALL. The game throws many refrenses to the classic loved fallout games before it, and does it with shine! But above all what this game excels at that many modern games of today fail at isThis is Fallout 3! What has to be one of my favrite games of this modern generation in video gaming! Everything about this game is great! The storyline, side questions alike! ALL OF IT! GAMEPLAY I LOVE IT ALL. The game throws many refrenses to the classic loved fallout games before it, and does it with shine! But above all what this game excels at that many modern games of today fail at is one simple thing. ATMOSPHERE! This game will forever be one of my favrite games that ive ever expereinced, and will experience… Expand
  80. Fuzi0n
    Apr 11, 2013
    0
    The worst Fallout game and one of the worst games I have ever played.

    If you want a Fallout game with a first person view that actually feels like a Fallout game, then get Fallout: New Vegas, it is a great game!

    Avoid this huge pile of crap at all costs. You have been warned.
  81. Morring
    Apr 7, 2013
    7
    This would have been a 10/10 BUT: Game for windows live is as painful as always, and lack of support for win 7. It behaves weirdly with some graphic cards, I keep having to reinstall the same drivers each time I want to play this game. Also some times you can feel the influence of the console version. Apart from these aspects the game is plain awesome: from the general atmosphere to eachThis would have been a 10/10 BUT: Game for windows live is as painful as always, and lack of support for win 7. It behaves weirdly with some graphic cards, I keep having to reinstall the same drivers each time I want to play this game. Also some times you can feel the influence of the console version. Apart from these aspects the game is plain awesome: from the general atmosphere to each single weapon, everything is how it should be. Don't expect an important main story tough: as with many bethesta titles this game is more about freeroaming. While the main campaing is still better than, say, oblivion, it is quite short.… Expand
  82. Sheriff
    Mar 29, 2013
    10
    Perfect. For me as the unexperienced "Bethesda's style" player. When you play it don't think about anything... Just explore. All. It makes you feel as a part of post-nuclear life. And don't read someone's opinion before! Or tips, or something like that. Main opinion is yours. Making your own through-style is most unforgettable thing.
  83. Y4nk33
    Mar 28, 2013
    10
    This game gives you a feeling, you will never forget.It would be scary if there would not be Galaxy News Radio or the little boy from your Pip-Boy.Lots of weapon, cool story, big map, lots of side quests, lots of options of how to resolve quests. Karma points were also very fun. If you did a quest in the right way ex: you dezactivated an atomic bomb, you get positive karma points, ThreeThis game gives you a feeling, you will never forget.It would be scary if there would not be Galaxy News Radio or the little boy from your Pip-Boy.Lots of weapon, cool story, big map, lots of side quests, lots of options of how to resolve quests. Karma points were also very fun. If you did a quest in the right way ex: you dezactivated an atomic bomb, you get positive karma points, Three Dog (the guy talking on the radio) will say good things about you, but if you do it in the bad way ex: you blow up the atomic bomb and kill lots of people for some money, you get negative karma and Three Dog will say bad things about you.… Expand
  84. Egexe9
    Mar 23, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. An excellent game where your choices actually alternate the ending. The leveling system is good with all needed skills and the perk system is out of this world. I can understand why someone wouldn't like this game that much but seriously someone gave a FREAKING 0 TO THIS GAME! It's understandable to give it a 7 but not 0… Expand
  85. Bongo_clive
    Mar 15, 2013
    8
    Great game, full of memorable characters, and still looks good after all this time, but nearly ruined by Games For Windows Live. Hope Bethesda see the light and keep well away in future.
  86. ejikvkaske
    Mar 13, 2013
    5
    Fallout 3 dutifully follows the Bethesda motto of quantity over quality. The game tries to make up for its shortcomings by overwhelming you with the sheer volume of content. And the faults be plenty. The world, albeit huge, feels empty and generally artificial. The UI is a disaster. Weapon selection is rather lame. Guns have no recoil and seemingly random bullet spread. Enemy AI isFallout 3 dutifully follows the Bethesda motto of quantity over quality. The game tries to make up for its shortcomings by overwhelming you with the sheer volume of content. And the faults be plenty. The world, albeit huge, feels empty and generally artificial. The UI is a disaster. Weapon selection is rather lame. Guns have no recoil and seemingly random bullet spread. Enemy AI is retarded. Side quests are extremely repetitive. Even the graphics, supposedly one of the game's strong points, look quite dated for a 2008 game. The game does have a decent storyline and a great soundtrack, but that's simply not enough to make up for it's numerous shortcomings.… Expand
  87. ProbMad66
    Mar 13, 2013
    4
    Oh, dear, oh, dear... I tried to love this game so hard... I'm just going to say sorry for the guys that love this game. You have the right to love it, it's fair, but it seems that you either got spoiled by modern game industry or didn't know the beauty of TRUE Fallout universe. Bethesda needs to understand, that not every game that it does needs to be done in the same manner. In the endOh, dear, oh, dear... I tried to love this game so hard... I'm just going to say sorry for the guys that love this game. You have the right to love it, it's fair, but it seems that you either got spoiled by modern game industry or didn't know the beauty of TRUE Fallout universe. Bethesda needs to understand, that not every game that it does needs to be done in the same manner. In the end Fallout started to look like The Elder Scrolls after a while. Please, do not misunderstand me, I love TES, but it's design is unique and suitable only for itself. Bethesda seems to think otherwise. Fallout 3 turned out to be more of a shooter, than an RPG. And when I say that, I mean: 90% shooter, 10% RPG. And in the end: it's certainly isn't the best of both world, but a bad example of adapting a series. The game may be enjoyable for new gamers, but for the old school type of gamers this will be a huge disappointment. I'm still in shock trying to figure out why it's score is better than Fallout 2's...… Expand
  88. Seryin
    Mar 10, 2013
    8
    The day Bethesda can release a glitch free game is the day they finally earn a real 10/10. It is a shame that a company with the potential to make such amazing games cannot manage to clean them up. The size of the game is not an excuse, it is pathetic.
    Despite its share of bugs, Fallout 3 is a hugely refreshing change from the "swords and boards," "dungeons and dragons" style rpg's that I    The day Bethesda can release a glitch free game is the day they finally earn a real 10/10. It is a shame that a company with the potential to make such amazing games cannot manage to clean them up. The size of the game is not an excuse, it is pathetic.
    Despite its share of bugs, Fallout 3 is a hugely refreshing change from the "swords and boards," "dungeons and dragons" style rpg's that I am sick of.
    The story and world are entertaining. Could have been a 10/10 if not for bugs.    … Expand
  89. Vigar
    Mar 3, 2013
    9
    Fallout all Parts are a all time favourite of mire. This is also perfect Gameplay with perfect atmossphere. -1 Point because of DLCs needed to get the whole experience for the game. But Fallout is moddable like oblivion and skyrim. You could, after gametime of over 200 Hours, easily add more features from downloads that a free of charge. Fallout show all other gamedevelopers how toFallout all Parts are a all time favourite of mire. This is also perfect Gameplay with perfect atmossphere. -1 Point because of DLCs needed to get the whole experience for the game. But Fallout is moddable like oblivion and skyrim. You could, after gametime of over 200 Hours, easily add more features from downloads that a free of charge. Fallout show all other gamedevelopers how to build a good world, with good balance and intresting skilltress.

    Have fun build YOUR way and Play you'r way.    … Expand
  90. FB242
    Feb 24, 2013
    10
    Absolute best game by far that I have EVER played. It's buggy, but there's a few homebrew fixes to them, and with a few mods it's an HD trip of classic awesomeness...
  91. hornet425
    Feb 21, 2013
    9
    this game is an amazing way for bethesda to start there turn with the fallout franchise if you have not bought this yet then buy it and also some duct tape and a bed pan because you will not want to move
  92. Metasavior
    Feb 9, 2013
    9
    Fallout 3 throws you in a land of waste, you have nothing at first, but freedom to do anything. Hunting some mutants to eat, surviving in a bandit territory, stealing some chem to live, blown by some mines, amazing and memorable quest, amazing and memorable memory. Fallout 3 is those and much more. And there are mods in pc, things that make Fallout 3 even worth 9.5 for a score. 7.5 is wayFallout 3 throws you in a land of waste, you have nothing at first, but freedom to do anything. Hunting some mutants to eat, surviving in a bandit territory, stealing some chem to live, blown by some mines, amazing and memorable quest, amazing and memorable memory. Fallout 3 is those and much more. And there are mods in pc, things that make Fallout 3 even worth 9.5 for a score. 7.5 is way too low for a score of a game like this. If god was a game, he would be Fallout 3.… Expand
  93. BBSalad
    Feb 1, 2013
    9
    This game is amazing!! Brilliant atmosphere, brilliant weapons and armour, and brilliant DLC! The only thing that lacks is how short the main quest is. But one of the DLC's does alternate the ending (For the better). Also, the radio is well thought out and amazing!
  94. gartenzwerg
    Jan 29, 2013
    10
    The depressing atmosphere, the gunplay, the graphics (although a bit dated, Fallout 3 still looks good), the sounds, the quests, the huge map ... Call me a fanboy, but since it came out, Fallout 3 is my #1 PC game, I literally spent hundreds of hours with it and can't wait for Fallout 4. Your turn, Bethesda.
  95. frankbilders
    Jan 21, 2013
    8
    Fallout 3 is a great game especially for fans of this genre. The story is pretty good, not superb but not bad. The combat is fun but a little dull, because it lacks a cover system or iron sights. The Voice acting is well done but the characters faces look stiff when they talk. The game world is awesome and i genuinely enjoy exploring. The game does crash often and it becomes veryFallout 3 is a great game especially for fans of this genre. The story is pretty good, not superb but not bad. The combat is fun but a little dull, because it lacks a cover system or iron sights. The Voice acting is well done but the characters faces look stiff when they talk. The game world is awesome and i genuinely enjoy exploring. The game does crash often and it becomes very frustrating. Overall i think it's a good purchase.… Expand
  96. popfg
    Jan 20, 2013
    10
    One of the best RPG experiences you could ask for. A truly open world, tons to do, a great V.A.T.S. system, You would do yourself a deservice if you didn't pick this up
  97. spid0101
    Jan 2, 2013
    10
    best game ever!!!!!!!!!!! i love to see America total destroyed of soviet union!!!! hahahaha. the best game series ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  98. LethalThreat
    Dec 29, 2012
    10
    I absolutely love this game, I have played it over and over again and it still doesn't get boring. I'm not to sure what keeps me in it, maybe the ability to mod at your will or just the fact you can do what ever the heck you want. Yes, there is bugs, but there are mods to fix that. I'll admit the vanilla game of this can be pretty dull, but when you add mods its epic and never ending. TheI absolutely love this game, I have played it over and over again and it still doesn't get boring. I'm not to sure what keeps me in it, maybe the ability to mod at your will or just the fact you can do what ever the heck you want. Yes, there is bugs, but there are mods to fix that. I'll admit the vanilla game of this can be pretty dull, but when you add mods its epic and never ending. The story line is a little short, but still fun. There is defiantly more than enough place to explore, quests to find, and loot.… Expand
  99. chvyalthan
    Dec 24, 2012
    10
    Fantastic game when it came out and even better now, As with most Bethesda titles they are very buggy when they come out but these past 4 years have served FO3 well. A great modding community has provided FO3 with a range of high fidelity face lifts as well as tonnes of new custom animations, quests and items. Since its an older game the GOTY edition can be picked up for a low price andFantastic game when it came out and even better now, As with most Bethesda titles they are very buggy when they come out but these past 4 years have served FO3 well. A great modding community has provided FO3 with a range of high fidelity face lifts as well as tonnes of new custom animations, quests and items. Since its an older game the GOTY edition can be picked up for a low price and you get great value for money with the amount of time you can spend in it.

    It is great fun to explore the post apocalyptic DC and finding all the unique and bizarre characters that live there. Lots of entertaining quests, characters and items to use with great voice acting and story. The vanilla game does have its issues with it being quite easy for experienced players and the animations messing up slightly but for those who like a challenge there are lots of mods available like FO3 Wanderers Edition which provide a gritty hardcore experience for this game.

    Without the modding community this title atm would be around an 8 given whats available at a similar price but there is no excuse not to pick up a few staple mods like MMM and a HQ texture pack if you PC can handle it - all made considerably easier with Fallout Mod manager.

    You will struggle to find as much entertainment and Hardcore RPG gameplay for as good a price as you can at the moment with a Modded FO3 a must buy if you haven't already picked it up.    … Expand
  100. VictorGar
    Dec 22, 2012
    0
    I have read about the constant crashing of this game but I thought that since they released a GOTY version it would probably have already been fixed. WRONG!. The game crashes every minute (literally) even if I have followed the steps to fix it that were posted in most forums. Is is completely shameful that such an unstable game is out in the market YEARS after its release with no fix. ItI have read about the constant crashing of this game but I thought that since they released a GOTY version it would probably have already been fixed. WRONG!. The game crashes every minute (literally) even if I have followed the steps to fix it that were posted in most forums. Is is completely shameful that such an unstable game is out in the market YEARS after its release with no fix. It only cost me 2.5 euros in GamersGate but I am still really angry that I have spent hours trying to fix it to no avail.

    Shame on you Bethesda    … 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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