Vault Dweller
The player-created survivor from Vault 13, whose skills, decisions, and moral choices determine the course of the story.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Left Mouse Button | Select, move, interact, or confirm The primary point-and-click control for exploration and menus. |
|---|---|
Right Mouse Button | Change the current cursor mode Context-sensitive behavior depends on the selected object and interface. |
I | Open the inventory The documented keyboard shortcut opens the inventory interface. |
P | Open the Pip-Boy The Pip-Boy contains status, map, and time-related functions. |
C | Open the character screen Use it to inspect statistics, skills, traits, and perks. |
M | Open the world map The map is used for traveling between discovered locations. |
Control notes
Fallout is primarily mouse-driven on DOS.
Some interface shortcuts can vary with keyboard configuration or game version.
Combat actions consume action points and are selected through the combat interface.
How it plays
How does Fallout: A Post Nuclear Role Playing Game play?
The game uses an isometric perspective for exploration. The player travels across a world map, enters settlements and facilities, speaks with non-player characters, investigates locations, and completes quests through dialogue, skills, combat, or alternate solutions.
Combat is turn-based and uses action points. Characters can move, attack, reload, use items, switch weapons, and perform aimed attacks when their available points allow it. Equipment, ammunition, armor, companions, and character statistics affect survival.
The main objective is time-limited, but many optional locations and quests can be explored. Experience improves the character at level increases, while skills, traits, perks, reputation, and decisions shape the available approaches and ending.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Fallout: A Post Nuclear Role Playing Game?
Build a character with a clear role instead of spreading every statistic and skill evenly. Agility is especially valuable because it increases available action points, while a dependable combat skill and a useful non-combat skill make the early game more manageable.
Explore nearby settlements before attempting the most dangerous objectives. Talk to characters repeatedly, inspect dialogue options, and keep more than one weapon type available. Save before entering unfamiliar locations or making irreversible decisions.
Manage ammunition and healing items carefully. Companions can add substantial combat power, but their equipment and positioning require attention. The main quest has a deadline, so prioritize information and resources before spending excessive time on optional exploration.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Overseer
The leader of Vault 13 who sends the Vault Dweller to recover a replacement water chip.
Ian
A skilled traveler and guard who can join the party after being rescued in Shady Sands.
Tycho
A desert ranger in Junktown who may become a companion.
Dogmeat
A loyal dog found in Junktown who can accompany the player under the right circumstances.
Aradesh
The leader of Shady Sands and Tandi's father.
Tandi
Aradesh's daughter, whose rescue is an early major quest.
The Master
The leader of the Unity, whose plan threatens the future of humanity.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Use the world map to record and revisit locations rather than fighting every encounter.
- 2
Aimed attacks can be powerful, but they consume more action points and may have lower hit chances.
- 3
Read descriptions of skills, traits, and perks before committing to a character build.
- 4
Keep backup saves before major conversations and faction decisions.
Community discussion
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