Within the Fallout series, a post-apocalyptic world awaits, adorned with desolate landscapes and iconic cities that have become synonymous with the franchise. Washington, D.C., a ruined metropolis, and the vibrant streets of New Vegas beckon adventurers with their unique and unforgettable offerings.
The radioactive ruins that were once thriving urban hubs, where remnants of civilization now mingle with chaos. Encounter a myriad of intriguing characters and delve into the mysteries that lie within these urban wastelands. Explore immersive settings that bear witness to the aftermath of nuclear devastation, unveiling the untold tales etched into their very foundations.
10 Vault City - Fallout 2
Vault City, an advanced settlement in Northern Nevada within Fallout 2, emerged from Vault 8 after the Great War. Renowned for its cutting-edge medical technology, it surpassed all others in New California. Situated east of Arroyo, Vault City thrived uncontested until trouble arose in 2235 with the neighboring Gecko's nuclear power plant. Radioactive leaks poisoned the water supply, straining relations and fueling animosity.
Despite the NCR's attempts to incorporate Vault City, the independent settlement resisted, facing escalating raider attacks. Amidst this conflict, NCR agent Thomas Moore sought to promote democracy but faced ridicule. With 103 citizens and key locations like the Central Council and downtown area, Vault City stands as a technological marvel and a center of trade and governance.
9 Goodneighbor- Fallout 4
Goodneighbor, once known as Scollay Square, stands as a unique settlement in Fallout 4's Financial District of Boston. In 2287, this unconventional community became home to ghouls, outcasts, and those rejected by the Commonwealth. Founded in 2240 by exiled criminals from Diamond City, Goodneighbor operates under the leadership of John Hancock, who took over from the former ruler, Vic. Despite Hancock's efforts to maintain order through the Neighborhood Watch, crime thrives within its boundaries, encompassing murder, extortion, and drug trade.
Noteworthy establishments include Kill or Be Killed, an armory run by KL-E-0, and Daisy's Discounts, offering general wares. The town bar, known as The Third Rail, serves as a gathering place within a converted subway station. Goodneighbor's colorful inhabitants harbor deep resentment toward the Institute and disdain for Diamond City.
8 Shady Sands - Fallout
Shady Sands, the bustling capital of the New California Republic, stands as a testament to resilience and self-sufficiency. Without relying on pre-War ruins and utilizing the G.E.C.K., they transformed the barren land into a flourishing settlement with adobe structures and rudimentary agriculture. Shady Sands grew to become the heart of the New California Republic, housing the Hall of Congress and serving as the seat of the president.
The town's success stems from its irrigation system, which sustains vital crops like maize and cabbage, and its well that provides water. Despite its facade of honesty and hard work, the city struggles to maintain its ideals, relying on trade and a capable police force to preserve order. Shady Sands, once a modest farming village, has blossomed into a formidable force shaping the post-war landscape.
7 Little Lamplight - Fallout 3
Little Lamplight, once a tourist attraction nestled in underground caverns, now serves as a refuge in the Capital Wasteland. Populated solely by children under 16 years old, this settlement emerged after the bombings, as mushroom clouds engulfed Washington, D.C., the adults perished or departed, leaving the kids to fend for themselves. Jason Grant stepped up as the mayor, guiding the young community.
When the children stumbled upon Vault 87, seeking aid, they were met with rejection. The rejection led to a distrust of adults, prompting the banishment of anyone turning 16, while the exiled sought a better life in Big Town. Joseph took on the role of teacher, utilizing scavenged holotapes for basic education. Little Lamplight's fate remains unknown, but its legacy endures as a remarkable testament to resilience amidst chaos.
6 New Reno - Fallout 2
Nestled in western Nevada, New Reno, also known as "The Biggest Little City in the World," stands upon the remnants of the pre-War city of Reno. Renowned for its opulent casinos like the Shark Club and the Desperado, New Reno is a haven of sin and excess, boasting an array of prostitutes, alcohol, and drugs. It is home to the Golden Globes studio, the Jungle Gym, and the Cat's Paw brothel. The city's power is wielded by four influential families: the Mordinos, Bishops, Wrights, and Salvatores. Although the Salvatores and Mordinos have waned in influence, the Wrights have emerged as the dominant force, with the Van Graffs also vying for control.
New Reno lacks an official government or police force, relying on the families to maintain order and deal with troublemakers at the nearby Golgotha burial site. The city thrives as a trading hub, engaged in commerce with the Big Circle brahmin trade, The Den, Vault City caravans, and even Vault City itself. While trade is vital, New Reno's primary export is entertainment, including drugs and alcohol. Despite internal strife and power struggles, New Reno endures as the largest settlement in Northern California, perpetually engulfed in the quest for dominance among its warring families.
5 Rivet City - Fallout 3
Rivet City, nestled within a decaying aircraft carrier in Washington, D.C., is a bustling settlement in Fallout 3. Once a mighty vessel, it now stands as the largest community in the Capital Wasteland. Within its boundaries, a robust police force maintains order, hydroponic gardens provide sustenance, and a research center fuels scientific endeavors. This settlement, with its rich history, becomes the nexus of various quests, offering a tapestry of conversations to eavesdrop on. Once an abandoned warship, it was reclaimed by remnants of the Naval Research Institute and transformed into the Rivet Station Science Outpost. Eventually, a thriving civilian settlement took root, leading to the formal establishment of Rivet City.
Governance falls upon a three-person council representing scientists, civilians, and security personnel. Inhabitants find solace and safety within individual rooms, guarded by a vigilant rotation of sentinels. The settlement thrives as a trading hub, supplying non-irradiated sustenance to the wasteland in exchange for essential resources. Its scientific prowess owes much to aggressive reclamation efforts, where anything of value is salvaged and brought to the city. While challenges persist, such as respiratory ailments and maintenance needs, Rivet City remains a beacon of civilization amidst the post-apocalyptic chaos.
4 Diamond City - Fallout 4
Diamond City, known as the "Great Green Jewel," thrives within the fortified Fenway Park in Boston. In 2287, this pre-War baseball stadium became a prosperous settlement. Its tall, reinforced wall, dubbed the "Green Monster," reflects its distinctive green color. Diamond City's influence extends across the Commonwealth, boasting its own police force, public school, robust agriculture, and thriving industry. The renowned Diamond City Radio broadcasts throughout the region, symbolizing its prosperity. Yet, hidden within the stadium's confines, a shantytown reveals humanity's struggle for survival and the challenges of reclaiming Boston. Despite hardships, Diamond City flourishes. It birthed Goodneighbor, a refuge for exiles, and fostered establishments like Power Noodles and Publick Occurrences newspaper.
The city's society is divided between the wealthy Upper Stands and the laborers of the Lower Fields. Despite internal divisions and the rise of anti-ghoul sentiment, Diamond City remains dedicated to education, providing free schooling and a non-denominational chapel. Powered by a fusion generator, the city's reliance on nuclear energy is not lost on its scientifically-minded residents.
3 Megaton - Fallout 3
Megaton, a fortified settlement in the Capital Wasteland, derives its name from the undetonated megaton class atomic bomb at its center. Erected around a crater, the town boasts large metal walls constructed from scavenged aircraft debris, creating a safer environment. Initially settled by individuals seeking refuge in Vault 101, the settlers embraced the crater for protection during dust storms. Trading their scavenged goods, the crater transformed into a bustling trade hub.
Lucas Simms acts as the town's self-appointed sheriff, while Moriarty maintains control over the saloon and information flow. Megaton became significant when the Lone Wanderer arrived in search of their father and collaborated with Moira Brown on the Wasteland Survival Guide. Today, Megaton faces threats from raiders and giant ants, but its resilience and resourcefulness keep the town alive. What makes Megaton a great location is that the player has true responsibility over its fate, whether to literally wipe it off the map or see it thrive.
2 Sierra Madre - Fallout: New Vegas, Dead Money DLC
The Sierra Madre, a pre-War casino resort near the Grand Canyon, holds a mysterious allure for many in the Mojave. Its legendary reputation stems from a woman's haunting radio broadcast that drew countless travelers to the city, never to return. Frederick Sinclair, the mastermind behind the Sierra Madre, constructed it as a refuge from the impending nuclear holocaust. The casino's Art Deco design and opulent features aimed to captivate guests. However, beneath the glamour lies a dark secret.
Sinclair unknowingly made a deal with Big MT, leading to the presence of the deadly Cloud toxin. The Sierra Madre became a deathtrap, with holograms and security systems guarding its secrets. Sinclair's love, Vera Keyes, met a tragic fate, and the subsequent guests faced similar peril. The Cloud, an experiment gone wrong, enveloped the area, creating savage guardians known as ghost people. Ultimately, the Sierra Madre became the setting for a tense heist orchestrated by Father Elijah.
1 New Vegas - Fallout: New Vegas
In the post-War Mojave Desert, New Vegas rises from the ashes of Las Vegas, skillfully restored by the enigmatic Robert House. House, using his army of Securitron robots, diligently maintains peace in the city's heart, the New Vegas Strip. Uniquely, Vegas remains mostly intact after the Great War, a testament to House's foresight. Anticipating the conflict, he developed the platinum chip, a remarkable data storage device to upgrade defenses and Securitrons.
Amidst the complex dynamics with the NCR and the looming threat of Caesar's Legion, House silently orchestrates from his tower, watching and waiting for the perfect opportunity. The diverse districts of New Vegas, from the opulent Strip to the struggling Freeside, create a tapestry of socioeconomic realities in this once-glittering city.
All Fallout Games can currently be found on Steam and across most console platforms.