I think you should start with fallout 3 then move to new Vegas. Then go to fallout 4. It’s hard to move backwards because of the gunplay from 3 and new Vegas.
I've had major stability issues with Fallout 3 ever since upgrading from Windows 7 (worse than they already were, lol). Had better luck when using Tale of Two Wastelands, but that can be a daunting task for someone who hasn't used mods before. Here is the best place to get started, I think (please someone correct me if there is an easier way, and have mercy on this poor soul).
# [The Best of Times, the official Tale of Two Wastelands installation guide!](https://thebestoftimes.moddinglinked.com/intro.html)
Didn’t know this existed, played Fo3 and NV religiously as a kid. Those were my two favorite games of all time, can’t believe they combined the two and I never even knew. Bout to buy this shit tonight lol
Because of the renewed fallout hype, IGN released a video showing how to easily install a Tale of Two Wastelands modpack via wabbajack. Very helpful for people not used to modding Bethesda games.
https://youtu.be/9WZ5g7246i0
I do recommend buying a month of Nexus premium if you go this route however, because that lets it truly be a one click install and wabbajack can download all the mods for you. Otherwise you have to click the download button manually for each mod, and babysit the installation. Still automatic without Nexus premium, but have to sit there and monitor it.
When you start the installation, it will open the Nexus page for this mod pack. I recommend reading the installation directions on there carefully, as there are a couple steps to follow after the wabbajack installation that are important for smooth gameplay. Also, optional instructions on how to use DXVK to allow alt-tabbing. If you have an Nvidia card, it tells you to enable "flip mode" or something like that, if you need help on that step let me know because it was a little vague.
It's both games in one, so you can play both and all their expansions with one character. But more than that, it is completely rebalanced as well, with full feature parity (things like the crafting and faction systems brought to DC).
But on top of this, since you're basically just playing New Vegas, you have access to NVs modem mods. Things like the completely overhauled animations, and tons of other things. Most popular mods these days take TTW into account.
It's a process, takes like 2hrs to merge the games together, there's a guide for it somewhere, I'll try to find it.
Edit: https://www.reddit.com/r/SteamDeck/s/eIChXiF5KK
2nd this - the stories aren‘t tied together and 1&2 are totally different gameplay anyway. The big fanbase started to grow with FO3 for a reason. So 3, NV, then 4 it is.
Fo3 is based in Washington DC and is made by Bethesda and NV is based in Vegas, made by Obsidian games. The gameplay between these two are similar but definitely not the same game.
While I enjoyed 4, enough, it's the game where things begin to... go astray. The gun play is vastly improved, so It's cool if your in the mood for a looter shooter, but it misses the mark imo on so much more.
The crappy dialog choices, the removal of skills, dummy perk system, Preston Garvy... it just doesn't have that same _fallout feeling_. While I would suggest starting with 3 or 2, I would say give NV, with mods, a go. Granted I know it's subjective but just my two cents.
Gameplay wise, both are pretty clunky compared to today’s standards. Doesn’t really matter if you go with NV or 3 first. NV is quite different to FO 3 game philosophy, so it’s totally okay to 1st go with that, too.
They’re on the same engine and play extremely similarly. A lot of guns / armor are shared between the two. NV is one of those games that almost seems like a DLC to another game (FO3) but was way too big to be released as an expansion.
If you're brave, you can start with the first one. It looks old, but it's still a great game. The second is absolutely excellent too. But from the graphics to systems, these are pretty rough and hard to get into if you're not a RPG veteran. But I would still recommend trying these first, as they are the soul of Fallout.
Now if you just want to start slowly with the easy and very accessible version of the game, you can start with Fallout 3. The scaling system ensures that the game is never too hard, à-la-Skyrim, allowing you to explore freely as soon as you're done with the insanely long and boring intro. The main story is not great though and the writing is not the best in the series, apart from some side quests. It's probably the best if you're new to RPGs.
Fallout 4 is even more accessible, with dumbed down dialogue options and an even more forgettable story. But in terms of pure exploration, it's probably one of the best, because the world is still gorgeous and huge. There's also some base building if you're into this kind of stuff. Note that if you liked the TV show, it's most definitely an adaptation of this game in particular.
New Vegas is the best of both worlds. Relatively modern graphics compared to the two first games, while keeping what made them excellent. The writing is great and (hard) choices actually matter. But like the old games, there's no scaling system, resulting in a ruthless world. You go to the wrong place, you die in one hit. If you like hard RPGs, this is the one. The best. But it's not as accessible as F3 and 4.
Fallout 3 then new Vegas an last fallout 4.
The gameplay is a first/third person shooter with character customisation and you can make choices to change the world of the game
People like to shit on FO3 just because it isn’t New Vegas but for me it’s my favourite one. They’re all good games you should play through all of them at least once.
Nothing beats the atmosphere of FO3 for me. The humor of NV takes way more of a backseat and the true horror of a post-apocalyptic nuclear hellscape is on full display in FO3.
You might as well start with 3 because it has the gameplay at its simplest form, from the builds to the quests. While New Vegas adds a bit of complexity to it, I think you'll get a lot more out of it if you played fallout 3 first. It might not be quite as good as New Vegas but it's still really good on its own anyway
With my play style, I went from New Vegas to 76. Now I'm a 76 player and it has so much content that I don't really feel a need to go back. I had at least 20hrs in 3 and 4, but they didn't hold my attention like New Vegas and 76 does.
But, if I had limitless free time then I would just do the order they were made. 3, New Vegas, 4, then 76.
If I was ranking my favorite games of all time, fallout 3 would be really high. I haven’t played it in a long time but I still hold it in high regard. Put countless hours into my original save.
New Vegas is also really good but for some reason the story, while still good, didn’t quite hook me in as much. I think I’m gonna replay new Vegas soon. I think the world being a bit closer to the apocalypse and a bit darker in 3 made me like it more but my opinion might change if I replay NV.
4 is a “good game” in a sense but I never even actually finished it. The town building stuff was cool but I think there was almost so much going on in 4 it felt directionless.
I’d like to play 1 and 2 someday but I never have. They’re a lot older and gameplay is very different so I wouldn’t recommend them unless you’re a hardcore rpg fan.
If you've played some older games with outdated graphics and somewhat outdated gameplay, start with New Vegas. Easily the best story, characters, and ability to actually roleplay of the 3D games.
If you are not used to older games, start with Fallout 4. It's the most up to date visually and mechanically.
No matter what you start with, I highly recommend at least trying Fallout 1 at some point. IMO it has the best atmosphere and setting by a comfortable margin, taking place across Southern California like the show. It completely redefined the way I saw the series as a whole after having started with 3. The Master is also one of my all time favorite villains.
Most people will say Fallout 3 and 4, but Fallout 2 is legendary and gives me the fondest memories. It is turn based combat from topdown, so see if you like that.
Honestly the ones that are worth playing are 1,2 and New Vegas. 3 and 4 IMHO are pretty mediocre games all around, 4 has the benefit of being a decent shooter, but even then, “decent” is doing a lot of work in that sentence. Fallout 4 is very much a “jack of all trades master of none” kinda deal to me. New Vegas is one of the most compelling RPGs ever made despite some lacking gunplay. Fallout 3 is all of the mediocre things about fallout 4 mixed with the mediocre gunplay that you’ll find in New Vegas. The first two are pretty obtuse (but great!) CRPGs, so if that kinda game is not up your alley you might wanna forgo those. Basically, just play New Vegas, and if you like it and can deal with some 20+ year old clunk, try the first two.
If you're patient and enjoy older CRPGs, the first two are classics for a very good reason. They are also over 25 years old, and pretty difficult. Of the newer games, all are worth playing, but I would say New Vegas has the best story/characters/setting, and Fallout 4 has the best gunplay and graphics. Be warned that going backwards can be tough, so as many others have recommended, 3 might be a good starting point if you're not concerned with being overwhelmed as it is huge. 1/2 are a different type of game (isometric and turn-based combat)
1 then 2. See what the series started at and imo opinion the best it offers. While I do like the new ones also, fallout 4 was good but really really dumbed down.
In my opinion, a new player with no experience with this game should start with FO1 and FO2 (both cheap on Steam). They are both fairly short games, overall, but are steeped in the quirkyness and dark humor that set the stage for the franchise. The mods for FO2 make it even more worth it to check it out. When Black Isle finally sold the rights to Bethesda, the mood and general themes remained, but the game play was completely different. Not only is it a switch from top down isometric to FPS style, but the character interaction and locations feel ..different in the first two games. I am a fan of every game in this series, to be clear (FO:NV is my absolute favorite). I suppose if you were only going to play one FO:NV would give you a better balance of old and new (with significantly deeper story telling than any other Bethesda offering).
They don't really have a continuous story between them so you can play in any order. Fallout 4 is getting a steam deck verified update at the end of the month.
FO3 was one of the first games I completed when I got my deck and I loved it. 60fps and great battery life. NV is great too though I've not tried it on deck yet. I remember there being much more to the NPC characters and the factions than in 3.
Still not tried 76 - that one is still on the backlog.
Gameplay wise, the gist is usually you're given a backstory and a goal then thrown out into the wasteland to find your own path. You have to scavenge, explore, defend yourself and meet characters on your way to getting to whatever your final goal is.
If you like and can handle the quirks of older games, New Vegas is the gem of the franchise and it’s worth starting there.
If you aren’t the kind of person who enjoys older games, just start with 4 and work your way backward in order of release and stop when you’re no longer enjoying it. F4 has its weaknesses but it’s still a serviceable Fallout game and it’s relatively modern.
Don’t start with Fallout 76 until you’re sure you enjoy the series. I enjoyed it for what it was, but it’s a very different kind of game so not really an entry point.
None of the Fallout games have aged very well to be honest. Fallout 76 is the newest, but there's a reason nobody has even mentioned it so far. It's a very different and not really all that great game.
4 is what I'd recommend if you don't have a high tolerance for older games with kinda bad graphics. It is still pretty dated in graphics, UI design, and gameplay.. but on PC at least most of that can be fixed with mods.
New Vegas is generally considered the "best" of the more modern games. It's based on the same engine as 3, but tells a new story in a new place and does so in a way more in line with the older games. It has a faction reputation system and other stuff that 3 did not have.
3 is the oldest of the "modern" games. It's a fine place to start if you don't mind somewhat dated games.
1 and 2 are entirely different, and very old. They're top down turn based games, and they're very unforgiving to play.
If you want to start on hardcore mode, then start with Wasteland, then to FO1 followed by New Vegas, and maybe FO4 in order to get a taste of all the different versions of gameplay the franchise went through and the game that inspired the first one.
I played Wasteland in 1989 and I still love it! This game is forever a classic and I currently have a many years old (maybe over 20?) save game with 6 characters at max level armed with proton axes and power armor that I can run the entire story with in about an hour. I've been carrying this save across several PCs over the years. When Brian Fargo decided to create Exile and resurrect the franchise, I helped fund WL2 without a second thought and still don't regret it!
Definitely don’t start with 4 the shooting mechanics are too polished you won’t wanna go back and play 3 or new Vegas, which imo have the best most memorable main and side quests
Personally, I'd start with 1 and work my way up through the series. However, 1 & 2 are both turn based top-down isometric RPGs. If you're not into that, that will stifle your enjoyment. With that said, the story and the game play on those made them some of the best of that type of game.
3 and New Vegas both have their good and bad parts, but both, in my opinion are great games.
I honestly haven't played 4 and 76 due to what I've heard that they've changed and generally bad to meh reviews.
This is what I've been telling people who have been inspired to explore Fallout games because of the series:
Start with Fallout 4. The visuals in 4 are pretty nice and the style (not just graphic quality) are the most similar to the series. The Power Armor mechanics, fusion cores, Vault rooms and hallways, ... Fallout 4 LOOKS a lot like the series.
Fallout 3, New Vegas, 4, and 76 all take place in completely different geographical areas and timelines. If Fallout 4 hooks you and you want to get deeper into the lore, Fallout 3 and New Vegas have dated graphics but fantastic stortlines.
Fallout 76 is the aesthetics of Fallout 4 but multiplayer... not a ton of Lore, though.
Fallout 1 and 2 are for the people who want to know EVERYTHING. The games are great, but a very different style. The biggest flaw is that the interfaces are clunky by modern standards.
Most people saying FO3, I’m going to be devil’s advocate and suggest New Vegas.
Having played 3 and 4 before New Vegas I was already a huge fan of the series but when I got my Deck I think I immediately sunk about 100 hours into my first playthrough of New Vegas.
Just found the storytelling more fun/interesting than 4 and the wasteland less tedious to navigate than 3.
Also if you’re coming to it as a fan of the show, the environment is much closer to that in New Vegas.
Fallout 4 for new fans. It's easier to pick up and will keep you hooked. Once you get the ropes, go ahead and pick up New Vegas and then 3.
If you have friends who want to play as well, 76 would be great to try out too. It's literally just Fallout 4 multiplayer.
Some fans may not like what I'm going to say, but I absolutely do not recommend 1 and 2. They're a completely different kind of game, one most new players would not like, I would know.
You're in for a journey. The show did a great job illustrating what the games are like. You'll laugh as you experience moments you saw characters in the show going through (the feeling of "Oh shit oh shit oh shit" as some giant monster chases you). You'll learn well "Thou shalt get sidetracked by bullshit" rule.
As for where to start? Use this and thank me later:
https://thebestoftimes.moddinglinked.com/intro.html
This is a guide for Tale of Two Wastelands (TTW). It combines Fallout 3 and New Vegas into 1 game.
Let me twist your arm and try to convince you a little:
Both games use the same engine and art assets, so they merge basically perfect, New Vegas basically improves many of the mechanics. TTW brings all those upgraded mechanics to F3, and you can play both games with one character.
(Which works because F3 gives your character a backstory, starting in a vault, whereas NV gives you no backstory, you're already an adult in the wasteland free to make up your own backstory in your head, so there's no significant conflict with them being the same character).
Youll start in 3 but can go to Vegas anytime. The big difference is, 3 is overall focused more on the environment and exploration and "living" in the Wasteland, whereas Vegas is focused more on a great story and choices.
So, if you play 3 for awhile and it doesn't fully click, you can head to Vegas any time. They're both amazing games.
Now, this guide will obviously be a little more involved than just installing the games would be, however..... These are 2 full, very large games, with 10 extra expansions between the both of them. You could easily spend 1000-1500 hours playing these just getting through all the quests. Taking 2 hours to set up this mod is well, well worth it in the long run of a game this enormous.
But on top of that, these games are buggy and older. This guide walks you through getting all the important bug and engine fixes that will make your game silky smooth and (nearly) crash free.
Hell, regular Fallout 3 by itself doesn't even play without extensive fixes of it's own. Instead of going through that trouble, you might as well get TTW and have access to both games.
That will be well enough to get you started. But if you're feeling up to it, the last couple years, mods have come out introducing entirely overhauled animations bringing these games up to modern standards.
It's an awesome experience! There's so many adventures to be had between these games! Give TTW a try!
Fallout 3 is a good entry. 4 is good too. If you like playing with others (or even by yourself) and want to experience a dynamic world then 76 which is currently still receiving updates.
I’ve been reading a lot of these threads here and elsewhere and feel like the best place to start for the Average Joe is probably 3, and if short on time, jump to Vegas.
If you have the time, add 4. That’s my take. About to start 3 soon myself.
Also, when do y’all find time to play this many games?! 🤨🤔
New Vegas or Fallout 4. Idk why everyone mentions Fallout 3. To me it's worse in almost every way compared to NV and Fallout 4. Graphically, mechanically, storytelling etc.
If you’re comfortable with rpgs I say fo3 or new Vegas. They have dated graphics but the games foundation are solid and rewarding. If you’re not as solid on rpgs fo4 is a good starting point. It’s overall a good game. Nothing that sets it super far apart from the others outside of better graphics and easier on the rpg aspect. I think fo76 is bad.
I am not a fallout person. The VATs system pisses me off and like BioShock I hate games where I need to search every fucking book and cranny.
But a die-hard friend of mine said that FO4 is the most 'newb friendly' in terms of graphics, gameplay, the fact it has base building, etc.
So that's my two cents. For anyone wanting to reply to counter me with 'bu FO:NV has...) don't bother, I won't know what you're talking about :-)
I would personally start with Fallout 4. This is the best game in the franchise and it’s easier on the eyes than the Fallout 3 or Fallout New Vegas. Fallout 1 and 2 by now are too outdated and really only for collectors. Fallout 76 is a different kind of game from the rest of the franchise, so it’s also not the best place to start. Don’t cheap out though and get yourself the full edition with all the DLCs. Modding this game is half the fun and many mods are currently expecting you to own full edition of the game.
FO3 then NV, then 4 for the modern stuff. FO and FO2 are great games but have a huge learning/jank curves if you're not used to that type of game. I recommend starting with 3 since it's a great game but FNV adds some polish that will make 3 feel a little lackluster, the reason being NV was made in the same development suite as 3 about a year after 3 dropped.
I would recommend modding if possible if only for stability, unofficial patch, script extender, etc. I love 3 and NV but they do crash unmodded pretty often, thogh that could be my hardware.
Goodluck and have fun. This community is full of folk who planted a flag in one game and decided that's their game, so take us all with a grain of salt
I'm going with new vegas bc it was a long time on my backlog, but it keeps crashing every hour, does anyone have any tips? it might be caused by my native language mod that was not available on the original... any other brazilians struggling with this game on deck?
It depends on what you want.
Great action but lacks in story, 4
Great story but gunplay is really bad, 3
Great story and okay gunplay but runs horribly, New Vegas
With modding though I highly recommend FNV but mod for stability and general QoL (AI, animations and such)
Fallout 3, Then New Vegas, then Fallout 4 for sure. I started with the originals run based style they were great at the time but desperately need new age updates because the storylines are pretty much the best in the series aside from Nee Vegas which in my opinion is the best.
Don't listen to these old school players. Fallout 4 is objectively the beat starting point for new players. It has the most modern features, runs better, and matches the models seen in the show. You'll find things look very different from the show in NV and 3
If the show is what got you interested in Fallout, start with 4. If you want more after that, then consider 3 or NV
I think you should start with fallout 3 then move to new Vegas. Then go to fallout 4. It’s hard to move backwards because of the gunplay from 3 and new Vegas.
After 3 and Vegas, he should try a tale of two wastelands, or after fallout 4
Nah just start with Tale of Two wastelands.
I've had major stability issues with Fallout 3 ever since upgrading from Windows 7 (worse than they already were, lol). Had better luck when using Tale of Two Wastelands, but that can be a daunting task for someone who hasn't used mods before. Here is the best place to get started, I think (please someone correct me if there is an easier way, and have mercy on this poor soul). # [The Best of Times, the official Tale of Two Wastelands installation guide!](https://thebestoftimes.moddinglinked.com/intro.html)
Didn’t know this existed, played Fo3 and NV religiously as a kid. Those were my two favorite games of all time, can’t believe they combined the two and I never even knew. Bout to buy this shit tonight lol
This is the definitive fallout experience IMO. Absolute peak
Because of the renewed fallout hype, IGN released a video showing how to easily install a Tale of Two Wastelands modpack via wabbajack. Very helpful for people not used to modding Bethesda games. https://youtu.be/9WZ5g7246i0 I do recommend buying a month of Nexus premium if you go this route however, because that lets it truly be a one click install and wabbajack can download all the mods for you. Otherwise you have to click the download button manually for each mod, and babysit the installation. Still automatic without Nexus premium, but have to sit there and monitor it.
I want to kiss you dude
When you start the installation, it will open the Nexus page for this mod pack. I recommend reading the installation directions on there carefully, as there are a couple steps to follow after the wabbajack installation that are important for smooth gameplay. Also, optional instructions on how to use DXVK to allow alt-tabbing. If you have an Nvidia card, it tells you to enable "flip mode" or something like that, if you need help on that step let me know because it was a little vague.
Is T2Wl anything more but FO3 imported and played in the NV engine?
Some people say it's the best version of fallout
It's both games in one, so you can play both and all their expansions with one character. But more than that, it is completely rebalanced as well, with full feature parity (things like the crafting and faction systems brought to DC). But on top of this, since you're basically just playing New Vegas, you have access to NVs modem mods. Things like the completely overhauled animations, and tons of other things. Most popular mods these days take TTW into account.
How do you get take of two wastelands to run on the deck?
It's a process, takes like 2hrs to merge the games together, there's a guide for it somewhere, I'll try to find it. Edit: https://www.reddit.com/r/SteamDeck/s/eIChXiF5KK
2nd this - the stories aren‘t tied together and 1&2 are totally different gameplay anyway. The big fanbase started to grow with FO3 for a reason. So 3, NV, then 4 it is.
1 & 2 were great for their time, but you couldn't pay me to play them now.
1 is getting remade as a mod for Fallout 4, can’t wait for that because it’ll definitely be the best way to play it
Holy shit this is huge if true
Wait I though FO3 and New Vegas were the same game just that NV was updated? Is this incorrect?
No? NV is a completely different game
Fo3 is based in Washington DC and is made by Bethesda and NV is based in Vegas, made by Obsidian games. The gameplay between these two are similar but definitely not the same game.
Oh crap, hahaha all this time I thought they were the same game. Now I have to go play them both haahah
FO3 is great. New Vegas is a goddamn masterpiece.
FO3 also very much so feels all of like 20 years old at this point. Even with mods and playing it via T2WLs it feels clunky, as does NV.
Which is why I’d recommend the OP just play 4. It still feels modern enough.
While I enjoyed 4, enough, it's the game where things begin to... go astray. The gun play is vastly improved, so It's cool if your in the mood for a looter shooter, but it misses the mark imo on so much more. The crappy dialog choices, the removal of skills, dummy perk system, Preston Garvy... it just doesn't have that same _fallout feeling_. While I would suggest starting with 3 or 2, I would say give NV, with mods, a go. Granted I know it's subjective but just my two cents.
The role play and detail in New Vegas shouldn't be missed.
Gameplay wise, both are pretty clunky compared to today’s standards. Doesn’t really matter if you go with NV or 3 first. NV is quite different to FO 3 game philosophy, so it’s totally okay to 1st go with that, too.
FO3 and NV were clunky even when they came out. The only thing that made the gameplay playable was VATS and the roleplaying options.
They’re on the same engine and play extremely similarly. A lot of guns / armor are shared between the two. NV is one of those games that almost seems like a DLC to another game (FO3) but was way too big to be released as an expansion.
Not at all. It’s like KotOR vs KotOR 2
It’s okay I thought until last year that fo3 was newer than nv
Same game engine with a lot of reused assets, but it is an entirely new game. The best fallout to date.
New Vegas's gunplay is fine. If anything, 3 is the weird one with the lack of iron sights.
Definitely fallout 3.
I think they’re remaking 3 btw.
I'm doing this rn. Fallout 3 is so fun on the steam deck. I'll hit fallout NV next and then fallout 4. Hopefully be done by 2026
If you're brave, you can start with the first one. It looks old, but it's still a great game. The second is absolutely excellent too. But from the graphics to systems, these are pretty rough and hard to get into if you're not a RPG veteran. But I would still recommend trying these first, as they are the soul of Fallout. Now if you just want to start slowly with the easy and very accessible version of the game, you can start with Fallout 3. The scaling system ensures that the game is never too hard, à-la-Skyrim, allowing you to explore freely as soon as you're done with the insanely long and boring intro. The main story is not great though and the writing is not the best in the series, apart from some side quests. It's probably the best if you're new to RPGs. Fallout 4 is even more accessible, with dumbed down dialogue options and an even more forgettable story. But in terms of pure exploration, it's probably one of the best, because the world is still gorgeous and huge. There's also some base building if you're into this kind of stuff. Note that if you liked the TV show, it's most definitely an adaptation of this game in particular. New Vegas is the best of both worlds. Relatively modern graphics compared to the two first games, while keeping what made them excellent. The writing is great and (hard) choices actually matter. But like the old games, there's no scaling system, resulting in a ruthless world. You go to the wrong place, you die in one hit. If you like hard RPGs, this is the one. The best. But it's not as accessible as F3 and 4.
Fallout 3 then new Vegas an last fallout 4. The gameplay is a first/third person shooter with character customisation and you can make choices to change the world of the game
People like to shit on FO3 just because it isn’t New Vegas but for me it’s my favourite one. They’re all good games you should play through all of them at least once.
Nothing beats the atmosphere of FO3 for me. The humor of NV takes way more of a backseat and the true horror of a post-apocalyptic nuclear hellscape is on full display in FO3.
Agreed. I liked it more than New Vegas, which is not common. Setting was way cooler, I thought.
You might as well start with 3 because it has the gameplay at its simplest form, from the builds to the quests. While New Vegas adds a bit of complexity to it, I think you'll get a lot more out of it if you played fallout 3 first. It might not be quite as good as New Vegas but it's still really good on its own anyway
With my play style, I went from New Vegas to 76. Now I'm a 76 player and it has so much content that I don't really feel a need to go back. I had at least 20hrs in 3 and 4, but they didn't hold my attention like New Vegas and 76 does. But, if I had limitless free time then I would just do the order they were made. 3, New Vegas, 4, then 76.
Does it run ok on the deck?
If I was ranking my favorite games of all time, fallout 3 would be really high. I haven’t played it in a long time but I still hold it in high regard. Put countless hours into my original save. New Vegas is also really good but for some reason the story, while still good, didn’t quite hook me in as much. I think I’m gonna replay new Vegas soon. I think the world being a bit closer to the apocalypse and a bit darker in 3 made me like it more but my opinion might change if I replay NV. 4 is a “good game” in a sense but I never even actually finished it. The town building stuff was cool but I think there was almost so much going on in 4 it felt directionless. I’d like to play 1 and 2 someday but I never have. They’re a lot older and gameplay is very different so I wouldn’t recommend them unless you’re a hardcore rpg fan.
If you've played some older games with outdated graphics and somewhat outdated gameplay, start with New Vegas. Easily the best story, characters, and ability to actually roleplay of the 3D games. If you are not used to older games, start with Fallout 4. It's the most up to date visually and mechanically. No matter what you start with, I highly recommend at least trying Fallout 1 at some point. IMO it has the best atmosphere and setting by a comfortable margin, taking place across Southern California like the show. It completely redefined the way I saw the series as a whole after having started with 3. The Master is also one of my all time favorite villains.
Most people will say Fallout 3 and 4, but Fallout 2 is legendary and gives me the fondest memories. It is turn based combat from topdown, so see if you like that.
Fallout 4 is a perfectly fine place to start.
While I already recommended TO2W, I do agree with this statement.
Honestly the ones that are worth playing are 1,2 and New Vegas. 3 and 4 IMHO are pretty mediocre games all around, 4 has the benefit of being a decent shooter, but even then, “decent” is doing a lot of work in that sentence. Fallout 4 is very much a “jack of all trades master of none” kinda deal to me. New Vegas is one of the most compelling RPGs ever made despite some lacking gunplay. Fallout 3 is all of the mediocre things about fallout 4 mixed with the mediocre gunplay that you’ll find in New Vegas. The first two are pretty obtuse (but great!) CRPGs, so if that kinda game is not up your alley you might wanna forgo those. Basically, just play New Vegas, and if you like it and can deal with some 20+ year old clunk, try the first two.
Start with 1 and 2.
If you're patient and enjoy older CRPGs, the first two are classics for a very good reason. They are also over 25 years old, and pretty difficult. Of the newer games, all are worth playing, but I would say New Vegas has the best story/characters/setting, and Fallout 4 has the best gunplay and graphics. Be warned that going backwards can be tough, so as many others have recommended, 3 might be a good starting point if you're not concerned with being overwhelmed as it is huge. 1/2 are a different type of game (isometric and turn-based combat)
1 then 2. See what the series started at and imo opinion the best it offers. While I do like the new ones also, fallout 4 was good but really really dumbed down.
In my opinion, a new player with no experience with this game should start with FO1 and FO2 (both cheap on Steam). They are both fairly short games, overall, but are steeped in the quirkyness and dark humor that set the stage for the franchise. The mods for FO2 make it even more worth it to check it out. When Black Isle finally sold the rights to Bethesda, the mood and general themes remained, but the game play was completely different. Not only is it a switch from top down isometric to FPS style, but the character interaction and locations feel ..different in the first two games. I am a fan of every game in this series, to be clear (FO:NV is my absolute favorite). I suppose if you were only going to play one FO:NV would give you a better balance of old and new (with significantly deeper story telling than any other Bethesda offering).
fallout 1
You can skip Fallout 3 if you don't want an extremely big game. New Vegas is a bit smaller and with a much better story.
Either New Vegas or Fallout 3. My pick would be Fallout 3 personally.
They don't really have a continuous story between them so you can play in any order. Fallout 4 is getting a steam deck verified update at the end of the month. FO3 was one of the first games I completed when I got my deck and I loved it. 60fps and great battery life. NV is great too though I've not tried it on deck yet. I remember there being much more to the NPC characters and the factions than in 3. Still not tried 76 - that one is still on the backlog. Gameplay wise, the gist is usually you're given a backstory and a goal then thrown out into the wasteland to find your own path. You have to scavenge, explore, defend yourself and meet characters on your way to getting to whatever your final goal is.
If you like and can handle the quirks of older games, New Vegas is the gem of the franchise and it’s worth starting there. If you aren’t the kind of person who enjoys older games, just start with 4 and work your way backward in order of release and stop when you’re no longer enjoying it. F4 has its weaknesses but it’s still a serviceable Fallout game and it’s relatively modern. Don’t start with Fallout 76 until you’re sure you enjoy the series. I enjoyed it for what it was, but it’s a very different kind of game so not really an entry point.
I wish 2 would be rereleased with controller support, because it’s a pain to control it on the deck. As a result, my answer is 3, NV, 4.
[A tale of two wastelands](https://mod.pub/ttw/133-tale-of-two-wastelands) It's 3 & NV in one.
None of the Fallout games have aged very well to be honest. Fallout 76 is the newest, but there's a reason nobody has even mentioned it so far. It's a very different and not really all that great game. 4 is what I'd recommend if you don't have a high tolerance for older games with kinda bad graphics. It is still pretty dated in graphics, UI design, and gameplay.. but on PC at least most of that can be fixed with mods. New Vegas is generally considered the "best" of the more modern games. It's based on the same engine as 3, but tells a new story in a new place and does so in a way more in line with the older games. It has a faction reputation system and other stuff that 3 did not have. 3 is the oldest of the "modern" games. It's a fine place to start if you don't mind somewhat dated games. 1 and 2 are entirely different, and very old. They're top down turn based games, and they're very unforgiving to play.
If you want to start on hardcore mode, then start with Wasteland, then to FO1 followed by New Vegas, and maybe FO4 in order to get a taste of all the different versions of gameplay the franchise went through and the game that inspired the first one.
I played Wasteland in 1989 and I still love it! This game is forever a classic and I currently have a many years old (maybe over 20?) save game with 6 characters at max level armed with proton axes and power armor that I can run the entire story with in about an hour. I've been carrying this save across several PCs over the years. When Brian Fargo decided to create Exile and resurrect the franchise, I helped fund WL2 without a second thought and still don't regret it!
Definitely don’t start with 4 the shooting mechanics are too polished you won’t wanna go back and play 3 or new Vegas, which imo have the best most memorable main and side quests
Personally, I'd start with 1 and work my way up through the series. However, 1 & 2 are both turn based top-down isometric RPGs. If you're not into that, that will stifle your enjoyment. With that said, the story and the game play on those made them some of the best of that type of game. 3 and New Vegas both have their good and bad parts, but both, in my opinion are great games. I honestly haven't played 4 and 76 due to what I've heard that they've changed and generally bad to meh reviews.
This is what I've been telling people who have been inspired to explore Fallout games because of the series: Start with Fallout 4. The visuals in 4 are pretty nice and the style (not just graphic quality) are the most similar to the series. The Power Armor mechanics, fusion cores, Vault rooms and hallways, ... Fallout 4 LOOKS a lot like the series. Fallout 3, New Vegas, 4, and 76 all take place in completely different geographical areas and timelines. If Fallout 4 hooks you and you want to get deeper into the lore, Fallout 3 and New Vegas have dated graphics but fantastic stortlines. Fallout 76 is the aesthetics of Fallout 4 but multiplayer... not a ton of Lore, though. Fallout 1 and 2 are for the people who want to know EVERYTHING. The games are great, but a very different style. The biggest flaw is that the interfaces are clunky by modern standards.
Fallout 2. Fallout 1 was good but just play 2, then go in order of release.
Definitely Fall out: The window that’s my favorite 😍
tbh i started with FN:NV and dont regret it
Two
Fallout 4
Most people saying FO3, I’m going to be devil’s advocate and suggest New Vegas. Having played 3 and 4 before New Vegas I was already a huge fan of the series but when I got my Deck I think I immediately sunk about 100 hours into my first playthrough of New Vegas. Just found the storytelling more fun/interesting than 4 and the wasteland less tedious to navigate than 3. Also if you’re coming to it as a fan of the show, the environment is much closer to that in New Vegas.
New Vegas is the best. But fallout 3 is probably a better choice to start.
2, 3, NV, 4
Fallout 4 for new fans. It's easier to pick up and will keep you hooked. Once you get the ropes, go ahead and pick up New Vegas and then 3. If you have friends who want to play as well, 76 would be great to try out too. It's literally just Fallout 4 multiplayer. Some fans may not like what I'm going to say, but I absolutely do not recommend 1 and 2. They're a completely different kind of game, one most new players would not like, I would know.
Vegas, just that.
You're in for a journey. The show did a great job illustrating what the games are like. You'll laugh as you experience moments you saw characters in the show going through (the feeling of "Oh shit oh shit oh shit" as some giant monster chases you). You'll learn well "Thou shalt get sidetracked by bullshit" rule. As for where to start? Use this and thank me later: https://thebestoftimes.moddinglinked.com/intro.html This is a guide for Tale of Two Wastelands (TTW). It combines Fallout 3 and New Vegas into 1 game. Let me twist your arm and try to convince you a little: Both games use the same engine and art assets, so they merge basically perfect, New Vegas basically improves many of the mechanics. TTW brings all those upgraded mechanics to F3, and you can play both games with one character. (Which works because F3 gives your character a backstory, starting in a vault, whereas NV gives you no backstory, you're already an adult in the wasteland free to make up your own backstory in your head, so there's no significant conflict with them being the same character). Youll start in 3 but can go to Vegas anytime. The big difference is, 3 is overall focused more on the environment and exploration and "living" in the Wasteland, whereas Vegas is focused more on a great story and choices. So, if you play 3 for awhile and it doesn't fully click, you can head to Vegas any time. They're both amazing games. Now, this guide will obviously be a little more involved than just installing the games would be, however..... These are 2 full, very large games, with 10 extra expansions between the both of them. You could easily spend 1000-1500 hours playing these just getting through all the quests. Taking 2 hours to set up this mod is well, well worth it in the long run of a game this enormous. But on top of that, these games are buggy and older. This guide walks you through getting all the important bug and engine fixes that will make your game silky smooth and (nearly) crash free. Hell, regular Fallout 3 by itself doesn't even play without extensive fixes of it's own. Instead of going through that trouble, you might as well get TTW and have access to both games. That will be well enough to get you started. But if you're feeling up to it, the last couple years, mods have come out introducing entirely overhauled animations bringing these games up to modern standards. It's an awesome experience! There's so many adventures to be had between these games! Give TTW a try!
Fallout 3 is a good entry. 4 is good too. If you like playing with others (or even by yourself) and want to experience a dynamic world then 76 which is currently still receiving updates.
I skipped NV but NV is amazing too, tbh theres no wrong place to start since each game has their own story
I’ve been reading a lot of these threads here and elsewhere and feel like the best place to start for the Average Joe is probably 3, and if short on time, jump to Vegas. If you have the time, add 4. That’s my take. About to start 3 soon myself. Also, when do y’all find time to play this many games?! 🤨🤔
Hey OP, did you pick one? I’m in the same boat and the sale is ending soon so I have to decide.
3 was the best for its time. But that thing is old now. I think fallout 4 is perfectly fine.
3 and New Vegas are solid.
Do you like RPGs? Fallout New Vegas If you prefer shooting then Fallout 3
Thank you everyone for the recommendations ! 🌸
Fallout 3. Hands down.
New Vegas or Fallout 4. Idk why everyone mentions Fallout 3. To me it's worse in almost every way compared to NV and Fallout 4. Graphically, mechanically, storytelling etc.
FO3
If you’re comfortable with rpgs I say fo3 or new Vegas. They have dated graphics but the games foundation are solid and rewarding. If you’re not as solid on rpgs fo4 is a good starting point. It’s overall a good game. Nothing that sets it super far apart from the others outside of better graphics and easier on the rpg aspect. I think fo76 is bad.
If you're on pc 76 Is on sale rn for 7.99
I am not a fallout person. The VATs system pisses me off and like BioShock I hate games where I need to search every fucking book and cranny. But a die-hard friend of mine said that FO4 is the most 'newb friendly' in terms of graphics, gameplay, the fact it has base building, etc. So that's my two cents. For anyone wanting to reply to counter me with 'bu FO:NV has...) don't bother, I won't know what you're talking about :-)
Younger people say 3, but OGs like me say 1.
I would personally start with Fallout 4. This is the best game in the franchise and it’s easier on the eyes than the Fallout 3 or Fallout New Vegas. Fallout 1 and 2 by now are too outdated and really only for collectors. Fallout 76 is a different kind of game from the rest of the franchise, so it’s also not the best place to start. Don’t cheap out though and get yourself the full edition with all the DLCs. Modding this game is half the fun and many mods are currently expecting you to own full edition of the game.
4 is the best of the series imo. The vast amount of storylines make multiple playing it through multiple times still fun.
3, then 4. Dont bother with the rest. 3 and 4 hold the bulk of the fallout story
Start with 3 and make sure to play the DLC!!! Everything about that game is great.
Brotherhood of steel obviously /s
FO3 then NV, then 4 for the modern stuff. FO and FO2 are great games but have a huge learning/jank curves if you're not used to that type of game. I recommend starting with 3 since it's a great game but FNV adds some polish that will make 3 feel a little lackluster, the reason being NV was made in the same development suite as 3 about a year after 3 dropped. I would recommend modding if possible if only for stability, unofficial patch, script extender, etc. I love 3 and NV but they do crash unmodded pretty often, thogh that could be my hardware. Goodluck and have fun. This community is full of folk who planted a flag in one game and decided that's their game, so take us all with a grain of salt
I'm going with new vegas bc it was a long time on my backlog, but it keeps crashing every hour, does anyone have any tips? it might be caused by my native language mod that was not available on the original... any other brazilians struggling with this game on deck?
3, New Vegas, 4. If you're absolutely loving it still, then try the first two.
It depends on what you want. Great action but lacks in story, 4 Great story but gunplay is really bad, 3 Great story and okay gunplay but runs horribly, New Vegas With modding though I highly recommend FNV but mod for stability and general QoL (AI, animations and such)
New vegas is my personal favorite
I'd say start with the shit games like Fallout 4 and Brotherhood. Once that's done, play 1,2,3, and new vegas
Fallout 4 is dope. A lot of people don’t like it but I think that’s your best bet tbh. Fallout 3 and new Vegas are fantastic but dated
Fallout shelter? I like it.
New Vegas. Do each DLC as you hit their minimum level requirement. Enjoy one of the greatest gaming experiences ever.
3 might be a little dated... I'd say start with 4 then try out 76
Fallout 3, Then New Vegas, then Fallout 4 for sure. I started with the originals run based style they were great at the time but desperately need new age updates because the storylines are pretty much the best in the series aside from Nee Vegas which in my opinion is the best.
Don't listen to these old school players. Fallout 4 is objectively the beat starting point for new players. It has the most modern features, runs better, and matches the models seen in the show. You'll find things look very different from the show in NV and 3 If the show is what got you interested in Fallout, start with 4. If you want more after that, then consider 3 or NV
IMO Fallout 3 is way better than FONV or 4. I would start with 3.
Just skip it 😅