What Did the Fallout Show Retcon?
The Fallout franchise is renowned for its intricate storytelling, complex characters, and post-apocalyptic world. However, as with any franchise that spans multiple games, movies, and media, some elements may contradict or alter previous events. In this article, we’ll delve into what the Fallout series retconned, and how these changes impacted the narrative.
Pre-Fallout Retcons
Before the release of the first Fallout game in 1997, the concept of the series was still evolving. In the early 1990s, Interplay Entertainment, the original developers of Fallout, created a series of short stories, comic strips, and character profiles. These early works laid the foundation for the game’s setting, characters, and storyline. However, as the game’s development progressed, some of these initial ideas were modified or discarded.
Game Mechanics and Lore Retcons
The original Fallout (1997) introduced players to a post-apocalyptic world, where radiation, mutants, and factions vied for power. As the series progressed, the developers made significant changes to game mechanics and lore. For example:
- Fallout 2 (1998): The sequel introduced a new engine, improved graphics, and modified game mechanics. However, some players noticed that the game’s lore had been altered, with key events and characters being reworked or omitted.
- Fallout 3 (2008): Bethesda Softworks acquired the rights to the Fallout franchise and released the third installment. The game featured a new 3D game engine, a more realistic art style, and a significant departure from the original game’s mechanics.
- Fallout: New Vegas (2010): Obsidian Entertainment developed this game, which took place in the Mojave Desert. New Vegas introduced a new engine, characters, and storylines, which diverged from the previous games.
Timeline Retcons
The Fallout timeline has undergone significant changes throughout the series. Here are some key retcons:
- Fallout (1997): The game takes place in the year 2161, with the Great War occurring in 2077. However, the game’s backstory suggests that the war began in 2050, contradicting the original timeline.
- Fallout 2 (1998): The sequel takes place in 2241, 80 years after the events of the first game. However, some events and characters from the original game were modified or omitted.
- Fallout 3 (2008): The game takes place in 2277, 200 years after the Great War. However, the game’s backstory contradicts previous events, introducing a new timeline that deviates from the original series.
Character Retcons
Some characters have undergone significant changes throughout the series:
- Vault-Tec: In the original Fallout, Vault-Tec was a corrupt and sinister organization responsible for the Vaults. However, in Fallout 3, Vault-Tec is portrayed as a more benevolent organization, with a focus on scientific research.
- Brotherhood of Steel: In the original Fallout, the Brotherhood of Steel was a powerful organization that fought against the Super Mutants. However, in Fallout 3, the Brotherhood is portrayed as a more corrupt and divided organization.
What Did the Fallout Show Retcon?
To summarize, the Fallout series has undergone significant retcons throughout its history. Some key retcons include:
- Game Mechanics and Lore: The series has seen changes to game mechanics, character profiles, and storyline elements.
- Timeline: The Fallout timeline has undergone significant changes, with events and characters being modified or omitted.
- Characters: Some characters have undergone significant changes, including Vault-Tec and the Brotherhood of Steel.
Table: Fallout Timeline
| Game | Year | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Fallout | 2161 | The Great War occurred in 2077. |
| Fallout 2 | 2241 | 80 years after the events of the first game. |
| Fallout 3 | 2277 | 200 years after the Great War. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a retcon?
A: A retcon (short for "retroactive continuity") is a change made to a story or narrative after its initial publication or release.
Q: Why did the Fallout series undergo retcons?
A: Retcons were made to adapt the series to new game engines, improve storytelling, and expand the world’s lore.
Q: Did the retcons affect the game’s storyline?
A: Yes, retcons significantly altered the storyline and characters throughout the series.
Q: Can I play the games in chronological order?
A: The Fallout series is not designed to be played in chronological order. Instead, each game is a standalone experience with its own unique story and characters.
Q: Are the retcons considered non-canonical?
A: The Fallout series does not explicitly declare which retcons are non-canonical. However, fans and developers often distinguish between the "original" storyline and the modified timeline.
Q: How do I keep track of the Fallout timeline?
A: The Fallout series provides an in-game timeline and companion materials that help players understand the world’s history.
Q: Can I play the games without worrying about retcons?
A: Yes, each game in the series is designed to be enjoyable on its own, without worrying about the retcons.