Are you curious about the Fallout games in order? Whether you’re a new player or a long-time fan, understanding the release sequence can make your journey through the wasteland even more exciting. Fallout is one of the most beloved post-apocalyptic RPG series ever made. Each game brings a unique story, gameplay style, and setting.
From the classic turn-based RPGs to modern open-world adventures, playing the games in order helps you appreciate the evolution of the series. In this guide, we’ll cover all Fallout games, share key details, and give helpful tips for each one.
Table of Contents
Fallout (1997)
The first Fallout game introduced players to a world devastated by nuclear war. Developed by Interplay, it is a turn-based role-playing game where every choice matters. You start in Vault 13 and venture into the wasteland to find a water chip and save your vault.
This game set the tone for future titles with dark humor, moral choices, and deep world-building. The turn-based combat may feel slower than modern games, but its strategy and storytelling remain legendary. If you love classic RPGs, this is where your Fallout games in order journey begins.
Fallout 2 (1998)
A direct sequel to the first game, Fallout 2 expands the world with more quests, factions, and humor. You play as the Chosen One, a descendant of the original Vault Dweller. The game keeps the turn-based style but adds more complexity and choices that influence the world.
Fallout 2’s writing is witty and dark, often making fun of post-apocalyptic clichés. For players looking to explore the series fully, playing Fallout 1 and 2 first is essential to understand the lore and references.
Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel (2001)
Unlike previous entries, Fallout Tactics focuses more on tactical combat than story. You command a squad of Brotherhood of Steel soldiers and battle enemies across the wasteland.
Though not as beloved as the main series, it offers a fresh strategic perspective. Playing it after Fallout 1 and 2 helps you appreciate the expanded universe, especially the Brotherhood of Steel’s role in the post-apocalyptic world.
Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel (2004)
This console-only entry is often overlooked. It combines hack-and-slash gameplay with Fallout’s familiar setting. While critics consider it less polished than other games, it adds some unique lore and action-focused gameplay.
Fans can treat it as an optional side story while following the main Fallout games in order path.
Fallout 3 (2008)
Fallout 3 marks a huge shift in the series with a fully 3D open world and first-person/third-person combat. Set in the Capital Wasteland (Washington D.C.), you play as the Lone Wanderer exploring the ruins of civilization.
The game introduces V.A.T.S., a combat system allowing tactical targeting in real-time fights. Fallout 3 blends deep storytelling with exploration, making it a must-play for newcomers and veterans alike.
Fallout: New Vegas (2010)
Developed by Obsidian Entertainment, New Vegas is technically a spin-off but often considered a mainline experience. Set in the Mojave Desert, it’s praised for rich storytelling, branching quests, and faction politics.
You play as the Courier, trying to survive a desert full of dangerous characters. If you love decision-making and moral complexity, New Vegas is arguably the pinnacle of narrative choice in the Fallout universe.
Fallout 4 (2015)
Fallout 4 brings advanced graphics, crafting, and base-building to the wasteland. Set in Boston, players are the Sole Survivor, waking up from cryogenic sleep to find the world in chaos.
The game combines exploration, combat, and building mechanics, making it one of the most immersive Fallout experiences. Playing in release order helps you see how Fallout 4 evolved from Fallout 3.
Fallout 76 (2018)
Fallout 76 introduces an online multiplayer experience. Set in West Virginia, it focuses on rebuilding society after nuclear devastation. While controversial at launch for bugs, updates have improved gameplay, adding quests, events, and survival challenges.
For series veterans, it offers a chance to explore the Fallout world with friends. It’s best played after experiencing Fallout 3 and 4 to understand its lore references fully.
FAQs About Fallout Games in Order
1. What is the best order to play Fallout games?
The recommended order is Fallout → Fallout 2 → Fallout Tactics → Fallout 3 → New Vegas → Fallout 4 → Fallout 76. Optional: Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel.
2. Are Fallout games connected by story?
Yes, many games share lore, factions, and locations. Playing them in order enhances your understanding of the world.
3. Which Fallout game should a beginner start with?
Fallout 3 or New Vegas is ideal for newcomers due to modern gameplay mechanics and easier learning curves.
4. Is Fallout 76 canon?
Yes, it fits into the official timeline but focuses on multiplayer events and world-building after the nuclear apocalypse.
5. Do I need to play Fallout Tactics?
It’s optional. Fallout Tactics adds tactical gameplay but is not crucial for the main storyline.
6. Are Fallout games on consoles?
Yes, many games are available on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation, though some older entries are PC-only.
Conclusion
Exploring the Fallout games in order gives you the full picture of this iconic post-apocalyptic universe. From turn-based classics to modern open-world adventures, each game offers a unique experience. Following the release timeline helps you understand lore, gameplay evolution, and story connections.
Whether you’re a newcomer or revisiting the wasteland, dive in, make your choices, and enjoy the chaotic, darkly humorous world of Fallout. The wasteland is waiting!