Who to Side with in Fallout 4?
The decision on who to side with in Fallout 4 is a crucial one, as it can significantly impact the game’s outcome and your character’s fate. The settlement of Diamond City is at the forefront of the conflict, and you must choose which faction to support in order to shape the fate of the Commonwealth. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of siding with each faction, helping you make an informed decision.
The Minutemen
The Minutemen are a group of settlers who have united to defend their homes and fight against the super mutants, raiders, and other threats that plague the Commonwealth. They are a relatively new faction, having risen from the ashes of the pre-war National Guard. They are led by the charismatic and resourceful Preston Garvey.
Pros of siding with the Minutemen:
- Defend the Commonwealth: The Minutemen are focused on protecting the settlements and people of the Commonwealth from threats both external and internal.
- Recruit loyal followers: Siding with the Minutemen allows you to recruit loyal followers who will stand by your side and fight for the common good.
- Clear the Commonwealth of raiders and mutants: By working with the Minutemen, you can help clear the Commonwealth of raiders and super mutants, making it a safer place to live.
Cons of siding with the Minutemen:
- Limited resources: The Minutemen are a relatively new and poor faction, with limited resources and funding.
- Internal conflicts: Siding with the Minutemen may lead to internal conflicts with other factions, such as the Institute or Brotherhood of Steel.
- High risk of combat: As the Minutemen are primarily focused on fighting raiders and mutants, siding with them can lead to a high risk of combat and risk to your character.
The Brotherhood of Steel
The Brotherhood of Steel is a technologically advanced faction dedicated to preserving and protecting human knowledge and technology. They are led by Elder Maxson, a charismatic and strong-willed individual.
Pros of siding with the Brotherhood of Steel:
- Access to advanced technology: The Brotherhood of Steel offers access to advanced technology and weapons, giving you a significant edge in combat.
- Protection from raiders: As a powerful and well-armed faction, the Brotherhood of Steel is an effective deterrent against raiders and other threats.
- Respect for the old world: The Brotherhood of Steel is dedicated to preserving the knowledge and technology of the pre-war world, making them a worthy ally for those interested in learning more about the world before the Great War.
Cons of siding with the Brotherhood of Steel:
- Strict code of conduct: The Brotherhood of Steel has a strict code of conduct, which can be restrictive and may not align with your character’s goals.
- Potential for conflict: Siding with the Brotherhood of Steel may lead to conflicts with other factions, such as the Institute or Minutemen.
- Risk of corruption: The Brotherhood’s strong emphasis on technology and military strength can lead to corruption and a potential for abuse of power.
The Institute
The Institute is a synthetic-based faction that seeks to rebuild the world using advanced technology and synthetic organisms. They are led by the enigmatic Father, a mysterious figure with a hidden agenda.
Pros of siding with the Institute:
- Advanced technology: The Institute offers access to advanced technology and synthetic organisms, giving you a significant edge in combat.
- Potential for growth: As a synthetic-based faction, the Institute may offer opportunities for growth and expansion, allowing you to shape the future of the Commonwealth.
- Hidden agendas: The Institute has a mysterious and hidden agenda, which can add an element of intrigue and complexity to your gameplay experience.
Cons of siding with the Institute:
- Morally ambiguous: The Institute’s methods are morally ambiguous, and siding with them may lead to conflict with other factions that value human life.
- Conflict with the Brotherhood of Steel: The Institute and Brotherhood of Steel are natural enemies, and siding with one faction may lead to conflict with the other.
- Risk of contamination: The Institute’s focus on synthetic organisms and technology can lead to contamination and mutations, posing a risk to the future of the Commonwealth.
The Followers of the Apocalypse
The Followers of the Apocalypse are a faction of scientists, settlers, and travelers who are dedicated to finding a cure for the Great War’s radiation. They are led by Shaun, a charismatic and knowledgeable individual.
Pros of siding with the Followers:
- Radiation research: The Followers of the Apocalypse are dedicated to researching radiation and finding a cure, making them a valuable ally for those interested in radiation research.
- Medical expertise: As a faction of scientists and settlers, the Followers offer medical expertise and treatments for radiation poisoning.
- Respect for the pre-war world: The Followers of the Apocalypse have a deep respect for the pre-war world and its technologies, making them a worthy ally for those interested in learning more about the world before the Great War.
Cons of siding with the Followers:
- Limited resources: As a small and poor faction, the Followers of the Apocalypse have limited resources and funding.
- Conflict with other factions: Siding with the Followers may lead to conflict with other factions, such as the Minutemen or Brotherhood of Steel, who may view them as a threat or a rival.
- Risk of mutation: The Followers’ focus on radiation research may lead to a risk of mutation and contamination, posing a threat to the future of the Commonwealth.
In conclusion:
Siding with a faction in Fallout 4 is a difficult decision, as each faction has its own unique pros and cons. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your character’s goals and values. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and it will shape the fate of the Commonwealth in meaningful ways.
FAQs:
Q: What is the best faction to side with in Fallout 4?
A: This is a subjective decision that depends on your character’s goals and values. Each faction has its own unique pros and cons, so it’s essential to weigh these factors carefully before making a decision.
Q: Can I side with multiple factions at once?
A: No, in Fallout 4, you can only side with one faction at a time. This can lead to interesting role-playing scenarios, as you must navigate the complex web of factions and alliances in the game.
Q: How do I know which faction is good or bad?
A: There is no clear answer to this question, as each faction has its own moral and political agenda. Instead, focus on weighing the pros and cons of each faction and choosing the one that aligns with your character’s values and goals.
Q: Can I form alliances with multiple factions at once?
A: Yes, you can form alliances with multiple factions at once, which can allow you to maintain good relations with different factions and navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries in the game.
Q: How do I change my faction allegiance in Fallout 4?
A: Unfortunately, it is not possible to change your faction allegiance in Fallout 4 once you have made a decision. However, you can make choices that align with other factions’ goals and values, effectively switching your allegiance without restarting the game.
Q: Are all factions equal in Fallout 4?
A: No, in Fallout 4, some factions are more powerful and influential than others. The Brotherhood of Steel, for example, has a significant presence in the game world, while the Minutemen are a smaller, more localized faction.
Q: How do I join a faction in Fallout 4?
A: To join a faction in Fallout 4, you typically need to complete a series of quests and interact with key faction members. These quests and interactions will help you establish relationships with faction members and earn their trust, eventually allowing you to join the faction.
Q: Can I quit a faction once I’ve joined?
A: Once you’ve joined a faction, it can be difficult to quit without negative consequences. Depending on the faction, you may face conflicts or even hostility if you try to abandon your faction without a good reason.