Should I Play Wasteland 2 or 3 Reddit? A Comprehensive Guide

The question of whether to start with Wasteland 2 or Wasteland 3 is a common one among fans of the isometric, turn-based RPG genre, especially on platforms like Reddit. Both games offer compelling post-apocalyptic experiences, but they differ in crucial ways that can impact your enjoyment. So, which should you play first?

The short answer is: If you plan on playing both games eventually, start with Wasteland 2. This recommendation is rooted in several key factors. While Wasteland 3 is often considered the more polished and accessible experience, tackling Wasteland 2 first will not only give you a deeper appreciation for the series’ evolution but will also prevent spoilers for its predecessor. Going back to a less refined system after being spoiled by a more modern interface and gameplay in Wasteland 3 may feel clunky and less appealing. This way you’re going chronologically through the series, which makes the most sense for story context.

However, if you’re primarily interested in a smoother, more user-friendly experience, and only intend to play one title, Wasteland 3 is your better starting point. It offers more streamlined mechanics, a more forgiving difficulty curve, and a more engaging narrative for newcomers, all while building upon the strengths of Wasteland 2.

Let’s delve into the specifics of each game to understand these recommendations in more detail.

Wasteland 2: The Classic CRPG Experience

Wasteland 2 is a true successor to the classic CRPGs of the past. Its gameplay emphasizes deep character customization, tactical turn-based combat, and a grim, uncompromising world.

Key Features

• Classic CRPG Feel: Expect a challenging experience with significant depth in character building and party management. It requires a higher degree of resource management and strategic thinking.
• Skill and Weapon Management: Requires more nuanced planning when it comes to skills, weapon mods, and character builds.
• Turn-Based Combat: Engages you in a highly tactical combat system, forcing you to make every move count.
• Difficult to Master: The game can be less forgiving of mistakes, especially early on. Expect a steeper learning curve.
• More “Bad” Endings: Boasts a plethora of negative outcomes, fulfilling the criteria for players seeking a “bad” character experience.
• Director’s Cut: The enhanced version of the game, the Director’s Cut significantly improves the experience by simplifying skill checks and adding perks and quirks to characters, making them stronger. However it did nerf some weapons, so it is not perfect.

Why Start Here?

• Appreciation for the Series’ Origins: By starting with Wasteland 2, you’ll understand the origins and evolution of the franchise.
• Avoiding Spoilers: Playing Wasteland 2 first helps you avoid spoilers in Wasteland 3’s storyline.
• Mastering the Core Mechanics: Learn the core gameplay mechanics from the ground up before moving to the more streamlined version of the game in Wasteland 3.
• More Challenging Gameplay: For players who appreciate a more unforgiving experience with complex RPG systems, Wasteland 2 is the way to go.

Wasteland 3: Streamlined and Engaging

Wasteland 3 takes the core mechanics of Wasteland 2 and polishes them to a sheen. It’s more accessible to newcomers without losing the depth fans expect.

Key Features

• More Forgiving Design: Wasteland 3 is more forgiving of mistakes, making it easier for new players to jump in. It provides more quests and early game experience methods.
• Streamlined Mechanics: The game features a more user-friendly interface and streamlined mechanics, making it easier to navigate the various systems.
• Engaging Story and Characters: Features a compelling storyline and memorable characters.
• Tactical Turn-Based Combat: While the core combat remains turn-based, it has seen improvements in its execution.
• More Choice and Consequences: The story offers more robust choices and consequence, allowing players to shape their own narrative and the ending, even to the point where you can be evil and fail the game.
• AA Quality: A high-quality game that is regarded as one of the best “AA” games ever made.
• Mature Themes: This game regularly depicts violence, gore, strong language, and adult situations.

Why Start Here?

• Accessibility for New Players: If you’re new to the series or the CRPG genre, Wasteland 3 is a more accessible entry point.
• Modern Polish: Enjoy the updated mechanics, graphics, and streamlined gameplay.
• Compelling Narrative: The engaging storyline and character development make Wasteland 3 a captivating experience.
• More RPG moments: There are more RPG moments and choices that effect your story and outcome.
• Standalone Story: While it builds on the lore of Wasteland 2, it largely stands on its own, allowing you to enjoy the story without prior knowledge of the series.

Wasteland 2 vs 3: The Key Differences

The table below summarizes the main distinctions between Wasteland 2 and Wasteland 3:

Feature	Wasteland 2	Wasteland 3
———————-	———————————–	————————————
Difficulty	Harder, less forgiving	Easier, more forgiving
Mechanics	More complex, less user-friendly	More streamlined, user-friendly
Story	More linked to classic CRPGs	Standalone with connections
Accessibility	Steeper learning curve	More accessible to newcomers
User Interface	More complex and clunkier	More streamlined and modern
Combat	Tactical, challenging	Tactical, more refined
Graphics	Older, less polished	Newer, more polished
Choice/Consequence	Has more “bad” outcomes	Offers more robust branching and consequence

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Wasteland 3 a direct sequel to Wasteland 2?

While Wasteland 3 takes place in the same universe and features some recurring characters and groups, it tells a largely standalone story. However, there are spoilers for Wasteland 2.

2. Is Wasteland 3 easier than Wasteland 2?

Yes, Wasteland 3 is generally considered easier than Wasteland 2. It provides more opportunities for experience and is more forgiving of player mistakes.

3. Which version of Wasteland 2 is better?

The Director’s Cut is the definitive version of Wasteland 2. It has a simplified skill check system, adds perks, and quirks for characters, and has bonus content.

4. How many hours of gameplay does Wasteland 2 have?

Wasteland 2 offers approximately 80 hours of gameplay.

5. What is the combat system like in Wasteland 2 and 3?

Both games use turn-based, party-based tactical combat, giving you complete control of your squad’s actions in battle.

6. Can you be evil in Wasteland 3?

Yes, you can make choices that align with a more evil or morally questionable path, with consequences that can even lead to a bad ending. You can break the quest chain to the point of not being able to beat the game.

7. Can you be evil in Wasteland 2?

Yes, the game features multiple “bad” endings, offering a darker side to the gameplay.

8. Does Wasteland 3 continue the story of Wasteland 2?

Wasteland 3 continues the overall story of the Desert Rangers, but with a focus on a new location and conflict. It doesn’t directly follow on from the exact ending of Wasteland 2, but does mention the events of the second game.

9. How many years is Wasteland 3 after Wasteland 2?

Wasteland 3 takes place five years after Wasteland 2.

10. Is Wasteland 3 a AAA game?

No, Wasteland 3 is considered a high-quality AA game, known for its depth, quality, and engagement while working with a smaller budget than a AAA game.

11. Is Wasteland 3 like Fallout?

Yes, both series share similar DNA as Wasteland inspired the original Fallout games. It is a great title for players who are looking for a more classic Fallout experience.

12. Can you become a cyborg in Wasteland 3?

Yes, you can gain a Cyborg Tech perk, which is obtained through a quest in Denver by visiting a robot doctor named Vivisecto.

13. Does physique matter in Wasteland 3?

No, physique is only for appearance, your attributes are what changes your play style. Strength adds to your HP.

14. How does siding with the Patriarch affect the ending of Wasteland 3?

Siding with the Patriarch can result in a specific ending where you must arrest or kill Angela Deth, depending on your skills. There are multiple endings available.

15. What are the most fun weapons in Wasteland 3?

Flamethrowers like the Tesla Arc Projector are considered one of the most fun weapon types due to their high base damage and chance to apply shock.

Conclusion

Whether you choose to embark on your post-apocalyptic journey with Wasteland 2 or Wasteland 3 depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in an RPG experience. If you are planning to play both games, starting with Wasteland 2 is recommended. If you want a more user friendly and easy entry into the franchise, Wasteland 3 is the better place to start. By understanding the differences and unique characteristics of each game, you can make an informed choice and dive into the wasteland with confidence.