Is Fallout Tactics Canon?
Fallout Tactics, developed by Micro Forté and published by 2K Games, is a turn-based tactical role-playing game set in the Fallout universe. Released in 2001, Fallout Tactics is a spin-off of the mainline Fallout series, but it has been a topic of debate among fans regarding its canonicity within the franchise. In this article, we’ll explore the topic and provide a direct answer to the question "Is Fallout Tactics canon?"
Early Indications
At first glance, Fallout Tactics appears to be a part of the Fallout universe, with many elements borrowed from the original Fallout games. The game takes place in the year 2197, more than 200 years after the events of Fallout, and features many of the same characters, locations, and technologies. The game’s storyline, which follows the player character, Larkin, as he attempts to reunite the Brotherhood of Steel, also appears to be part of the Fallout lore.
Contradictions and Continuity Issues
However, as we delve deeper into the game’s narrative and characters, some inconsistencies and continuity errors arise. For example:
- Characters: Fallout Tactics introduces characters like the President of the United States, Roman Mossi, who does not exist in any other Fallout game. Additionally, the game’s depiction of the Enclave, a key faction in the Fallout universe, differs significantly from their portrayal in the mainline games.
- Events: The game’s storyline includes events and battles that do not align with the Fallout timeline. For instance, the player’s journey to reunite the Brotherhood of Steel seems to occur before the events of Fallout 2, which is not supported by the game’s internal timeline.
These contradictions and continuity issues raise questions about the game’s canonicity within the Fallout franchise.
Bethesda’s Statement
In 2008, Bethesda Softworks, the current owner of the Fallout franchise, published an official statement addressing the question of Fallout Tactics’ canonicity. According to the statement, "Fallout Tactics is not considered canon." This decision was made due to the game’s numerous continuity errors and the fact that it did not contribute to the overall storyline of the franchise.
Fallout Bible and Other Official Sources
The Fallout Bible, a document written by George Ziets, one of the game designers at Black Isle Studios, categorizes Fallout Tactics as non-canonical. This is supported by other official sources, such as the Fallout: The Roleplaying Game and the Fallout video game series’ official timelines. These sources all exclude Fallout Tactics from the official Fallout canon.
Community Reaction and Debate
The question of Fallout Tactics’ canonicity has sparked a heated debate among fans and communities. Some argue that the game is still part of the Fallout universe, citing its connections to the original games and its thematic consistency. Others believe that the game’s contradictions and continuity errors make it non-canonical.
Conclusion
Based on the evidence presented, it is clear that Fallout Tactics is not considered part of the Fallout canon. Bethesda’s official statement, the Fallout Bible, and other official sources all confirm this conclusion. While the game may share elements with the Fallout universe, its numerous inconsistencies and continuity errors make it a spin-off rather than a canonical part of the franchise.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the main reasons why Fallout Tactics is considered non-canonical?
- Characters not appearing in other Fallout games
- Contradictions with the Fallout timeline
- Events not aligning with the mainline games’ storylines
- Does Bethesda consider Fallout Tactics part of the Fallout canon?
- No, according to Bethesda’s official statement, Fallout Tactics is not considered canon.
- Is the Fallout Bible an official source?
- Yes, the Fallout Bible is a document written by George Ziets, one of the game designers at Black Isle Studios, and is considered an official source.
- Can I still play Fallout Tactics?
- Yes, Fallout Tactics is still a game within the Fallout universe and can be enjoyed as a standalone experience.
- Does Fallout Tactics contribute to the overall storyline of the franchise?
- No, the game’s storyline is not considered part of the official Fallout canon.
- Can I consider Fallout Tactics as a spin-off game?
- Yes, while not considered part of the official canon, Fallout Tactics can be viewed as a spin-off game within the Fallout universe.
- Will Bethesda re-evaluate Fallout Tactics’ canonicity?
- It is unlikely, given Bethesda’s official statement and the Fallout Bible’s categorization of the game as non-canonical.
- Can I still play other Fallout games and enjoy the franchise without considering Fallout Tactics part of the canon?
- Yes, the Fallout franchise is large and diverse, with many games and storylines to explore. You can still enjoy the other Fallout games and the franchise as a whole without including Fallout Tactics in your canonical timeline.