'Fallout': Deconstructing the videogame universe for new fans ahead of Prime Video series
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Prime Video's 'Fallout' is set to introduce a post-apocalyptic future world, torn by the aftermath of a nuclear war and the citizens adopt a unique lifestyle to survive.
The setting and plot of the upcoming series draws its inspiration from the popular video game franchise of the same name, created by Tim Cain.
The game was first introduced in 1997 followed by a chain of sequels and spin-offs until 2019 to keep the gaming enthusiasts hooked to this futuristic world.
While those acquainted with the game are excited about the live-action series, the late joiners may find it hard to understand the 'Fallout' universe. If you are one of those wondering what the hype is all about, let's discuss and decode the video game universe ahead of the series' premiere.
What's the history of 'Fallout' universe?
Though the game and the Prime Video series are set in future timelines, it is necessary to understand the history of this universe to understand the core plotline and characters.
'Fallout' explores an alternate world shaped by rapid nuclear advancements following World War 2.
The resource conflict results in conflict between the European Commonwealth and Middle Eastern nations and an eventual nuclear exchange between the United States and China that transforms America into a post-apocalyptic landscape.
The survivors take shelter in bunkers known as Vaults to survive the nuclear attack.
What is 'Fallout' game series all about?
Interplay Entertainment rolled out the first computer game of the series in 1997. Set in the year 2161, the events take place in a post-apocalyptic Southern California.
The protagonist, referred to as the Vault Dweller, is assigned the mission of finding a water chip in the Wasteland to replace the malfunctioning one in their underground refuge, Vault 13.
The Vault Dweller also has to foil the schemes of a faction of mutants, headed by a monstrous figure known as the Master.
In 'Fallout 2', released in the subsequent year, the events took place 80 years after 'Fallout 1'.
Here, the players take on the role of the Chosen One, the true grandchild of the Vault Dweller, as they strive to rescue their village, Arroyo, from famine and drought.
Following the village's salvation, the Chosen One must confront the Enclave, the remnants of the pre-war United States government and the clandestine authority behind the vault project.
'Fallout 3' was released ten years later and picked up the events 30 years after the setting of 'Fallout 2'. Here, the player's character originates from Vault 101 and becomes known as the Lone Wanderer after escaping when the Overseer attempts to apprehend them due to their father's escape from the Vault.
Upon leaving, the Lone Wanderer embarks on a journey into the Capital Wasteland, the area in and around Washington, DC, in search of their missing father.
Taking forward the story to year 2287, in 'Fallout 4', the Sole Survivor embarks on a quest to find their son who was abducted from the Vault.
'Fallout 5' is said to be in development with no further details about its release.
The first spin-off of 'Fallout' was rolled out in 2001
Apart from a series of sequels in the main series, Interplay Entertainment also has a bouquet of spin-offs, the first of which was released in 2001.
The list of spin-offs includes 'Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel', 'Fallout: New Vegas', 'Fallout Shelter', 'Fallout Pinball' and 'Fallout Shelter Online' amongst others.
Four of these spin-offs were made for Windows, with three of them functional on Xbox and Play Station. Meanwhile, the 2015, 2016, and 2019 spin-off games were made for iOS and Android.
The gaming universe is coming to life in Prime Video's upcoming series 'Fallout' starring Ella Purnell, Walton Goggins, and Aaron Moten. It is set to premiere on April 11, 2024.
