Introduction
Released a staggering eight years ago, Fallout 4 marked a significant moment for its developer, Bethesda. The game represented a return to the desolate, post-apocalyptic world after the studio’s success with the influential open-world RPG, Skyrim, which had launched just three years prior. Fallout 4 stood as a sequel to both Skyrim and Fallout 3, refining the expansive structure of the fantasy setting by rooting it in the familiar, real-world locations of the ruined American setting. The game’s intro sequence was particularly ambitious, aiming to ground players’ characters in its fascinating world, though it was not without its flaws.
Quiet Intro
The initial gameplay experience in Fallout 4 is set in a domestic environment that seems almost too idyllic, especially when compared to the harsh realities of the world outside. Within the first ten minutes, players find themselves in front of a bathroom mirror, immediately after a narrated autobiography of Nate, the male protagonist, and husband to Nora, the female protagonist. This sequence allows players to customize their characters’ appearances before stepping into a house that epitomizes the 1950s suburban life.
As time seemingly stands still, players can interact with various objects in the home, such as cereal boxes, Nuka Cola, and even their own infant son, Shaun. These interactions serve as prompts for the character to reflect on the mundanity of their comfortable life, oblivious to the impending nuclear catastrophe. The portrayal of the nuclear family and the inclusion of diverse neighbors, such as a lesbian couple and Black families, add thematic depth to the intro, suggesting that some may have already lost more than the protagonist could comprehend.
Let Me Out
The transition from the game’s intro to the main gameplay is marked by the player’s entry into Vault 111 and the events that follow the dropping of the bombs. This section introduces new emotional stakes and gameplay mechanics, as players are thrust into a future they know is doomed.
| Before the Bombs | After the Bombs |
|---|---|
| Domestic tranquility | Chaos and panic |
| Interactions with family | Isolation and loss |
| Comfortable ignorance | Forced awareness |
| Customizing characters | Survival and escape |
Bethesda Game Intros
Bethesda’s approach to game intros has often been a topic of discussion, with Fallout 4 being no exception. The intro’s attempt to establish an emotional connection and backstory for the player contrasts with other games like Elden Ring and Starfield, which have taken different approaches to their opening sequences. While Bethesda’s intros are known for their stunning landmarks and eccentric characters, they sometimes rush the emotional journey of their protagonists, potentially impacting the player’s experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Fallout 4‘s intro may have its shortcomings, but the ambition behind it is undeniable. It sets the stage for a memorable gaming experience, even if it doesn’t perfectly capture the essence of the game’s draw. Bethesda’s intros, with their massive, detailed worlds, continue to be a testament to the studio’s ability to craft immersive settings, even if the emotional anchoring of the player could benefit from a more measured pace.
