Are you ready to dive into the iconic post-apocalyptic world of Fallout but don’t know where to start? With the Fallout TV series taking the world by storm and Season 2 on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to experience this legendary RPG franchise. As someone who’s spent countless hours exploring the wastelands, I’ll guide you through every Fallout game in both chronological order and release date order, helping you choose the perfect starting point for your journey.
Fallout Games at a Glance
| Game Title | Release Year | Chronological Year | Setting | Metacritic Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fallout 76 | 2018 | 2102-2105 | Appalachia | 52 |
| Fallout | 1997 | 2161-2162 | Southern California | 89 |
| Fallout Tactics | 2001 | 2197-2198 | Midwest | 82 |
| Fallout 2 | 1998 | 2241-2242 | Northern California | 86 |
| Fallout 3 | 2008 | 2277-2278 | Capital Wasteland | 91 |
| Fallout: New Vegas | 2010 | 2281-2282 | Mojave Wasteland | 84 |
| Fallout 4 | 2015 | 2287 | The Commonwealth | 84 |
Fallout Games in Chronological Order
The Fallout universe begins in the 22nd century after a devastating nuclear war between the United States and China in 2077. The world that emerged is a fascinating blend of 1950s retro-futurism and post-apocalyptic survival. Here’s how the games line up based on when their stories actually take place:
1. Fallout 76 (2102-2105)
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Metacritic Score: 52
Despite being one of the newest entries, Fallout 76 takes place earliest in the timeline, just 25 years after the bombs fell. You emerge from Vault 76 in West Virginia as one of the first to reclaim the wasteland. What makes this unique is that Appalachia wasn’t hit as hard by the nukes, so you’ll see greener landscapes and more intact buildings than in other Fallout games.
Originally launched without NPCs, the game has evolved significantly with the Wastelanders update adding proper characters and storylines. As an online experience, you’ll encounter other players while exploring, but you can also play solo if you prefer. The setting shows the world in its immediate post-war state, with societies just beginning to form and factions taking their first steps.
Why start here? If you want to see the Fallout world at its most “fresh” and understand how the wasteland evolved, this is your perfect entry point. However, keep in mind that the always-online nature and different gameplay style might not appeal to everyone.
2. Fallout (2161-2162)
Platforms: PC, MS-DOS, macOS
Developer: Interplay Productions
Metacritic Score: 89
This is where it all began. The original Fallout drops you into Southern California 84 years after the Great War. You play as the Vault Dweller from Vault 13, tasked with finding a replacement water chip after your vault’s system fails. What starts as a simple mission quickly evolves into something much bigger as you discover The Master and his army of Super Mutants threatening the entire wasteland.
The game features classic isometric RPG gameplay with turn-based combat, a stark contrast to the modern first-person entries. The depth of choice and consequence here is incredible – your decisions genuinely shape the world and story in meaningful ways. The writing is sharp, the world is richly detailed, and the atmosphere perfectly captures that post-apocalyptic 1950s-future vibe.
Why start here? For purists who want to experience the series from its origins, this is essential. The CRPG mechanics might feel dated to modern players, but the storytelling and world-building are absolutely timeless.
3. Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel (2197-2198)
Platforms: PC
Developer: Micro Forté, 14 Degrees East
Metacritic Score: 82
Taking us to the American Midwest, Fallout Tactics shifts focus from traditional RPG gameplay to tactical squad-based combat. You join the Brotherhood of Steel, a technologically-focused paramilitary organization dedicated to preserving pre-war knowledge and preventing another apocalypse.
While some elements of Fallout Tactics are considered non-canon by Bethesda, certain events and characters have been referenced in later games, making it at least semi-canon. The gameplay is completely different from other entries – you control a squad of Brotherhood members through strategic missions rather than playing as a single character.
Why play this? If you enjoy tactical strategy games and want to explore a different part of the Fallout world, this offers a unique perspective. Just don’t expect the same depth of role-playing as the main series entries.
4. Fallout 2 (2241-2242)
Platforms: PC, macOS
Developer: Black Isle Studios
Metacritic Score: 86
Set 80 years after the original Fallout, this sequel puts you in the boots of the Chosen One, a descendant of the first game’s Vault Dweller. Your village is suffering from a devastating drought, and you must venture into the wasteland to find the legendary Garden of Eden Creation Kit (G.E.C.K.) to save your people.
Fallout 2 expands on everything that made the first game great while introducing the Enclave – remnants of the pre-war U.S. government with their own sinister agenda. The game world is much larger, with more factions, locations, and quests than its predecessor. The writing is sharper, the choices are more impactful, and the dark humor is even more prevalent.
Why start here? If you want the ultimate classic Fallout experience with more content and refinement than the original, this is your best bet. Just be prepared for a steep learning curve if you’re new to CRPGs.
5. Fallout 3 (2277-2278)
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Metacritic Score: 91
Bethesda’s first entry in the series marked a dramatic shift in both gameplay and perspective. Moving from isometric to first-person, Fallout 3 drops you into the Capital Wasteland – the ruins of Washington D.C. exactly 200 years after the Great War. You play as the Lone Wanderer, born and raised in Vault 101 until your father mysteriously disappears, forcing you to venture into the outside world for the first time.
This game introduced the modern Fallout formula that fans know today: real-time combat with the optional V.A.T.S. targeting system, open-world exploration, and a first-person perspective. The transition from underground vault dweller to wasteland explorer is brilliantly handled, and the story of searching for your father while uncovering a larger conspiracy is incredibly engaging.
Why start here? For most modern players, this is the perfect starting point. It bridges the gap between classic and modern Fallout, offering accessible gameplay while maintaining the series’ core themes and atmosphere.
6. Fallout: New Vegas (2281-2282)
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
Metacritic Score: 84
Widely considered the best modern Fallout game by many fans, New Vegas takes you to the Mojave Wasteland and the neon-lit streets of New Vegas. You play as a Courier who’s shot in the head and left for dead while delivering a mysterious package. After being rescued, you embark on a quest for revenge that quickly evolves into a complex struggle for control of the Mojave.
What sets New Vegas apart is its incredible writing, deep faction system, and meaningful choices that genuinely affect the world and story. The game features multiple endings based on your allegiances and decisions, and the faction conflicts feel more nuanced and realistic than in other entries. With its excellent DLC expansions adding even more content, this is arguably the most complete Fallout experience available.
Why start here? If you want the best story, most meaningful choices, and deepest role-playing experience in the modern Fallout series, start here. The graphics might show their age, but the writing and gameplay are timeless.
7. Fallout 4 (2287)
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/Series X|S
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Metacritic Score: 84
The most recent single-player entry in the series takes us to the Commonwealth – the ruins of Massachusetts and Boston. In a brilliant opening sequence, you experience the day the bombs fell in 2077 before being cryogenically frozen and waking up 210 years later to find your spouse dead and infant son kidnapped.
Fallout 4 introduces several new mechanics to the series, including a robust settlement building system, voiced protagonist dialogue, and refined shooting mechanics. The story of searching for your son while navigating the complex politics of the Commonwealth – featuring factions like the Brotherhood of Steel, Institute, Railroad, and Minutemen – provides plenty of emotional weight and moral complexity.
Why start here? For newcomers who want the most modern gameplay experience with the best graphics and most accessible mechanics, this is the ideal starting point. The story stands well on its own, and you won’t miss much by not having played previous entries.
Fallout Games by Release Date
If you prefer to experience the series as it evolved over time, here’s the order in which the games were actually released:
| Game Title | Release Date | Year | Developer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fallout | September 30 | 1997 | Interplay Productions |
| Fallout 2 | September 30 | 1998 | Black Isle Studios |
| Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel | March 14 | 2001 | Micro Forté |
| Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel | January 13 | 2004 | Interplay Entertainment |
| Fallout 3 | October 28 | 2008 | Bethesda Game Studios |
| Fallout: New Vegas | October 19 | 2010 | Obsidian Entertainment |
| Fallout Shelter | June 14 | 2015 | Bethesda Game Studios |
| Fallout 4 | November 10 | 2015 | Bethesda Game Studios |
| Fallout 76 | November 14 | 2018 | Bethesda Game Studios |
Non-Canon Games
Two games in the Fallout series aren’t considered part of the official timeline:
Fallout Shelter (2015)
A mobile vault management simulation where you build and maintain your own vault. While fun and featuring authentic Fallout elements, it’s not considered canon due to timeline inconsistencies.
Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel (2004)
A console action RPG that’s been explicitly stated by Bethesda to exist in its own continuity. It’s generally skipped by most fans when discussing the main series.
Which Fallout Game Should You Play First?
This is the million-dollar question, and honestly, there’s no single “right” answer. However, I can offer some recommendations based on what you’re looking for:
For the Best Story: Start with Fallout: New Vegas
If narrative depth, meaningful choices, and excellent writing are your priorities, New Vegas is unmatched. The faction system is complex, the moral choices are genuinely difficult, and the story is compelling from start to finish. While the graphics show their age, the gameplay holds up remarkably well.
For Modern Gameplay: Start with Fallout 4
If you want the most polished, modern experience with the best graphics and most accessible mechanics, Fallout 4 is your best bet. The shooting feels great, the settlement building adds a new dimension, and the story is emotionally engaging. It’s also the most forgiving for newcomers to the series.
For the Perfect Balance: Start with Fallout 3
Fallout 3 strikes the perfect balance between classic Fallout elements and modern gameplay. It introduces the first-person perspective and V.A.T.S. system while maintaining the series’ core themes and atmosphere. The transition from vault to wasteland is brilliantly handled, and the Capital Wasteland is one of the most memorable settings in gaming.
For the Purist Experience: Start with Fallout 1 or 2
If you want to experience the series from its roots and don’t mind older graphics and CRPG mechanics, start with the original Fallout or its sequel. These games offer unparalleled depth of choice and consequence, with writing that still holds up today.
Platform Considerations
Different Fallout games are available on different platforms, which might influence your starting point:
Current Generation (PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Modern PC)
- All modern Fallout games (3, New Vegas, 4, 76) run well
- Fallout 4 has the best performance and visual enhancements
- Fallout 76 continues to receive regular updates
Previous Generation (PS4, Xbox One)
- Fallout 4 and Fallout 76 run well
- Fallout 3 and New Vegas are available via backward compatibility
- Performance may vary on older hardware
PC (All Eras)
- Every Fallout game is available
- Mods can enhance older games significantly
- Best overall platform for experiencing the entire series
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t Feel Obligated to Play in Release Order
While playing in release order can be interesting to see how the series evolved, it’s not necessary. Each game tells its own story with its own protagonist, so you can jump in anywhere.
Don’t Skip the Classics Because of Graphics
The original Fallout games might look dated, but their writing, world-building, and role-playing depth are exceptional. Don’t let the isometric perspective turn you away from some of the best RPGs ever made.
Don’t Worry About Missing Lore
Each Fallout game is designed to be accessible to newcomers. While there are connections and references between games, you won’t be lost if you start with any of them.
Advanced Tips for Series Veterans
If you’ve already played some Fallout games and want to enhance your experience, consider these approaches:
Create a Themed Playthrough
Play through the games focusing on specific themes or factions. For example, experience the Brotherhood of Steel’s evolution across multiple games, or follow the development of power armor technology throughout the series.
Explore the Lore Connections
Pay attention to the subtle connections between games. Notice how factions evolve, how technology progresses, and how the world changes over the centuries between each entry.
Try Different Playstyles
Each Fallout game rewards different approaches. Try a pure diplomat run, a stealth-focused character, or a heavy weapons specialist across different games to see how each system handles different playstyles.
The Evolution of the Series
One of the fascinating aspects of the Fallout series is how it has evolved over time:
From CRPG to Action RPG
The transition from the isometric, turn-based combat of the early games to the first-person, real-time combat of the modern entries represents one of the most significant evolutions in gaming history.
Technological Progression
Each game showcases the gaming technology of its era, from the simple 2D sprites of the original to the vast, detailed worlds of modern entries.
Narrative Complexity
While the early games focused on personal stories within larger conflicts, modern entries have expanded to explore more complex themes like family, identity, and the nature of humanity itself.
Future of the Series
With the success of the Fallout TV series and continued support for Fallout 76, the franchise is more popular than ever. Fans are eagerly anticipating news about the next single-player entry, which will likely push the series forward both technologically and narratively.
FAQ
Do I need to play the Fallout games in order?
No, each Fallout game tells its own self-contained story with its own protagonist. You can start with any game in the series without feeling lost.
Which Fallout game is the best for beginners?
Fallout 4 is generally considered the most accessible for newcomers due to its modern gameplay mechanics, polished presentation, and forgiving learning curve.
Are the old Fallout games worth playing today?
Absolutely! While the graphics and interface may feel dated, Fallout 1 and 2 offer some of the best writing, world-building, and role-playing depth in gaming history.
What’s the difference between chronological and release order?
Chronological order follows the timeline of when the stories actually take place in the Fallout universe, while release order is when the games were published in the real world.
Is Fallout 76 worth playing?
Yes, especially after years of updates. While it started rocky, Fallout 76 has evolved into a compelling online experience with proper NPCs, engaging storylines, and regular content updates.
Can I play Fallout games on modern consoles?
Most modern Fallout games are available on current platforms. Fallout 4 and 76 run natively on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, while older games are available through backward compatibility or digital stores.
What about the Fallout TV series? Where does it fit?
The Fallout TV series takes place in 2296-2297, after all the main games but before the potential events of future entries. It’s considered canon and references events from multiple games.
Are there any other Fallout games I should know about?
Besides the main series, there are several spin-offs like Fallout Shelter (mobile) and Fallout Tactics (tactical RPG), plus the non-canon Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel.
How long does it take to beat each Fallout game?
Completion times vary widely, but generally:
- Fallout 1 & 2: 20-40 hours
- Fallout 3: 25-50 hours
- New Vegas: 30-60 hours
- Fallout 4: 30-80 hours
- Fallout 76: 100+ hours (ongoing)
Should I play with mods?
For PC players, mods can greatly enhance the experience, especially for older games. However, I recommend playing through each game vanilla first to appreciate the original vision.
Final Thoughts
The Fallout series offers something for everyone, from deep CRPG experiences to accessible action adventures. Whether you choose to follow the chronological timeline, play in release order, or jump in with the most modern entry, you’re in for an unforgettable journey through one of gaming’s most richly detailed worlds.
Remember to bookmark this guide as I’ll be updating it regularly with new information about future Fallout games and updates. The wasteland is always changing, and there’s always something new to discover in the world of Fallout.
Happy exploring, and may your Pip-Boy never run out of battery!
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