fallout games in order of timeline

HaC 2025

2 min read 18-03-2025

The Fallout universe is vast and complex, spanning centuries of post-apocalyptic history. Understanding the timeline can be tricky, especially with the branching narratives and alternate realities. This guide will help you navigate the Fallout games in chronological order, offering a clearer picture of the world's evolution after the bombs fell. This article will cover the main Fallout games and their timeline placement. Some spin-offs and mobile titles are omitted for brevity.

The Pre-War Era & Fallout 4

While not directly playable, the pre-war era is crucial to understanding the Fallout universe. The setting for Fallout 4 places the player in 2077, just before the Great War. This game allows players to experience the final days of pre-war society before the nuclear bombs obliterate civilization. It's a critical starting point for understanding the foundation of the post-apocalyptic world.

Fallout 76: The Early Days of the Wasteland

Set in 2102, Fallout 76 represents a pivotal moment in the Fallout timeline. It depicts the early days after the bombs fell, with Vault 76 opening its doors to a generation largely unprepared for the harsh realities of the wasteland. This entry shows the initial struggle for survival, the rise of new factions, and the early stages of societal rebuilding (or, in many cases, the continued breakdown).

Fallout 1 & 2: The Genesis of the Wasteland

Though not directly sequential in release date, Fallout 1 (2161) and Fallout 2 (2241) follow chronologically. These classic isometric RPGs delve deep into the harsh realities of the American Southwest. Fallout 1 introduces the player to the Vault Dweller, tasked with finding a new water source for their dying home. Fallout 2 shows the effects of generations living in the wasteland and the ongoing struggle for survival against raiders, mutants, and the remnants of the old world.

Fallout: New Vegas: A Desert Showdown

Taking place in 2281, Fallout: New Vegas is set in a different part of the post-apocalyptic US – the Mojave Wasteland. This location adds another layer to the ongoing narrative of survival. While geographically separated from the events of Fallout 1 & 2, the game explores themes of faction conflict, political intrigue, and the ever-present struggle for resources. Many remnants of the earlier era are touched upon, showcasing the lasting effects of previous conflicts.

Fallout 3 & Fallout 4: The Capital Wasteland and Beyond

Fallout 3 (2277) takes the player to the ruins of Washington D.C., a completely different setting that offers a fresh perspective on the post-apocalyptic life. While the events of Fallout 3 are chronologically placed before New Vegas, it's worth noting that both take place within the same overarching timeline of the main series.

Important Note: The events of Fallout 4 and Fallout 76 are arguably more distinct from the classic Fallout games, focusing less on the overall meta-narrative and more on creating immersive individual stories within the greater world.

Conclusion: A Continuing Saga

The Fallout games, while not perfectly linear in their release order, form a compelling and complex history of survival in a broken world. By understanding the chronological order, players can appreciate the evolution of the wasteland and the enduring struggle of its inhabitants. Each game adds another layer to this vast and enduring post-apocalyptic world. Whether you're a veteran Wastelander or a newcomer, exploring these games in chronological order will provide a rich and rewarding experience.