Hey everyone! I just picked up the complete collection of single player Fallout games during a sale and I’m pretty excited to dive in. Instead of playing them in the order they were released, I want to experience them based on which ones have the most engaging stories first. I’ve heard mixed opinions about different entries in the series and I’m looking for some guidance from people who have actually played through them all. Which Fallout game would you recommend starting with if story quality is my main priority? I’d love to hear your thoughts on ranking them from strongest narrative to weakest so I can plan out my gaming schedule accordingly.
Fallout 4 gets hate but that opening sequence is probably the strongest hook in the series
I’d start with New Vegas. The writing’s excellent and your choices actually matter for the story.
If you’re okay with going back to the roots, Fallout 1 has a great story. The graphics might be old and the turn-based combat isn’t for everyone, but that water chip quest really pulls you in.
Start with Fallout 3. The vault dweller looking for their dad hooks you right away, and exploring the Capital Wasteland is amazing on your first playthrough. New Vegas has better writing but all the faction politics can overwhelm newcomers. Play that one second.
New Vegas has the best story, but if you can handle the old-school graphics, give Fallout 2 a shot. The Chosen One plot is incredible and features some of the best writing in the series. The random encounters and characters are way more memorable than anything you’ll find in the newer games.
Fallout 2 if you don’t mind older graphics, otherwise New Vegas for modern gameplay
Fallout 3 is a solid choice to start with. The whole quest to find your dad really pulls you in and keeps you engaged throughout the game.