23 Games Similar To The Fallout Series
The Fallout series, developed by Bethesda Game Studios, has been a cornerstone of the video game industry since the original Fallout game was released in 1997. The series has amassed a large number of devoted fans, with many players citing several reasons why they love the series so much. Fallout is set in a post-apocalyptic world resulting from a nuclear war that destroyed the Earth in the 22nd century. The games are known for rich detail and immersive environments that range from desolate wastelands to struggling settlements, each with its own history, culture, and challenges. The series' signature retro-futuristic aesthetic, inspired by 1950s American culture, also contributes to its unique atmosphere. The games in the series are known for their non-linear gameplay and the considerable degree of freedom they allow players. They can explore the world at their own pace, make choices that significantly affect the narrative and world, join different factions, and mold their character's skills and attributes. This openness creates a deeply personal and unique experience for each player. The games feature a variety of memorable characters and factions, each with their own motivations, ideologies, and complex moral issues. From the Brotherhood of Steel's rigid adherence to the Brotherhood of Steel's technology to the Enclave's ruthless pursuit of pre-war America, these groups give the world of Fallout depth and diversity. The series is known for its dark humor and satirical treatment of American culture and history. From its scathing portrayal of consumer culture and bureaucracy to its ironic use of fun music and 1950s imagery in a dystopian post-apocalyptic setting, the series' humor serves as a counterpoint to its darker themes. And now we're about to find out what the best games exist that are similar to classic Fallout, as well as Fallout 3,4, and 76.
23. Dying Light 2: Stay Human
- Similarity: 30 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2022
- Game play time: 30 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
Set in a quarantine zone teeming with mutant zombies and hostile humans, the story offers morally complex decisions, much like Fallout 4, but with a stronger influence on world building and storyline development. Some players may find the pace of the game to be out of step with reality. In Dying Light 2, periods of intense action are replaced by long periods of exploration at a slower pace, which can be perplexing. The parkour system and interaction with the environment are distinctive features of the game. On the other hand, the game's main quests seem a bit predictable and lacking in complex world building.
22. Borderlands 3
- Similarity: 40 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2019
- Game play time: 50 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
An exciting open-world shooter that offers players a unique experience in the post-apocalyptic universe of Pandora. It's like Fallout, only the planet is different. The game is developed by Gearbox Software and released by 2K Games. One of the main features of Borderlands 3 is the extensive arsenal of weapons, which offers players more than a million combinations. Each weapon has its own unique characteristics and abilities, making the gameplay varied and exciting. In addition, the game offers four different character classes with unique abilities, allowing players to choose the right play style. The graphics in Borderlands 3 are done in the comic book style, which has become a trademark of the series. The world of the game is filled with a variety of locations, including deserts, cities, and space stations. Each location has its own unique atmosphere and quests, which makes the game more interesting and diverse. The plot of Borderlands continues the story of the previous installments, where players fight against the sinister Calypso and her cult of Guardians. The game offers an exciting story with unexpected twists, humor and interesting characters. In addition to the main story, players can also complete many side quests that expand the game's world and offer additional character development opportunities. The multiplayer mode is also one of the game's strengths. Players can cooperate in co-op mode to progress through the main campaign or fight each other in PvP mode. This adds a social aspect to the game and allows players to enjoy it with friends.
21. Crossout
In a world devastated by a global catastrophe, players will have to create and customize their own vehicles for battles. In other words, it's "Fallout 4 with cars." Of particular note is the crafting system, which allows you to collect parts from the battlefield to create your best fighting machine. A huge variety of parts - from weapons to armor and engines - allows you to create a completely unique machine. Combat in Crossout is fast-paced and intense, with battles taking place in a wide variety of environments. The game offers a variety of game modes, from standard deathmatch to Capture the Flag. The graphics of the game may not be state-of-the-art, but still allows to convey the desolate and gloomy atmosphere of the post-apocalyptic world. Sound design is also at a high level: explosions and shots sound realistic enough. The system of player selection in the game can sometimes cause some dissatisfaction: often players get close to opponents with cars of much higher level. However, this is somewhat mitigated by the career advancement system, which rewards players for both winning matches and completing daily tasks.
20. Deus Ex: Mankind Divided
- Similarity: 40 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2016
- Game play time: 30 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
A game that continues the story of the famous Deus Ex series. Developed by Eidos Montreal studio, it offers players a fascinating cyberpunk world where technology and people face social problems and political intrigue. One of the main features of the game is its open world, which allows players to freely explore the city of Prague and its environment. Here you'll find a variety of quests, tasks, and secrets that can be solved in a variety of ways. Whether it's stealth, brutal force, or using your cybernetic prosthetics, the game gives you the freedom to choose. The graphics and level design in Deus Ex: Mankind Divided are impressively detailed and atmospheric. The city of Prague is recreated with loving attention to detail, creating a unique cyberpunk atmosphere. Each level offers different ways to overcome obstacles, which encourages players to experiment and find new solutions. The character pumping system also deserves a special mention. You can upgrade your cybernetic prosthetics, skills and abilities to adapt to different situations. This allows you to create a character that suits your playstyle. However, some players note that the game's story is not as compelling as in previous installments of the series. Also, some gameplay aspects may seem a bit outdated. But for Fallout fans, it is still recommended.
19. RAGE 2
- Similarity: 40 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2019
- Game play time: 20 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
Rage 2's gameplay involves a lot of shooting with firearms equipped with a combination of magical abilities called "nanotrits". Battles are intense and engaging, and the array of weapons makes for a very varied experience. The combat mechanics are more intense than Fallout and will appeal to those who appreciate fast and intense firefights. Like Doom. The world of Rage 2 feels a bit hollow, with little emphasis on role-playing elements. Unlike Fallout, where choices have weight and consequences in both narrative and gameplay. The artificial intelligence-driven NPCs in Rage 2 have a less than appealing range of interactions and are a large part of the game's immersion factor. This aspect simply can't compete with Fallout's lively, interesting and often eccentric characters that give the game depth.
18. Far Cry New Dawn
- Similarity: 50 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2019
- Game play time: 30 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
Far Cry: New Dawn falls short of the standards set by other post-apocalyptic games, particularly the Fallout series. The bright visuals and charming setting are commendable, but they can't make up for the repetitive gameplay, sparse story, and overall mediocrity. Avid fans of the Far Cry series may find some enjoyment in this installment, but those who are looking for a really exciting post-apocalyptic adventure can be advised to play this game only when all the others have been played.
17. The Division 2
- Similarity: 50 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2019
- Game play time: 90 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
One of the positive aspects of The Division 2 is the recreation of the environment - Washington, D.C., which is mesmerizing and delightful. The city is highly detailed, with realistic weather changes and impressive day-to-night cycles that combine to create a sense of existence in an abandoned and dilapidated city. The graphics and visual immersion of the game are some of its most praiseworthy features and are arguably on par, if not better, than Fallout 4. The AI of the enemies in the game is competent and intelligent. Unlike Fallout 4's enemies, which were occasionally dumb, in The Division 2 most of the enemies are more efficient, tactical and present a decent level of difficulty. Thus, tactics and strategic thinking become an integral part of the gameplay. An appealing aspect of the game is the ability to play cooperatively, something that is lacking in Fallout 4. Although the game features a single-player option, the game truly opens up when friends join in to complete missions and explore Washington, DC. The story and narrative, however, may not be The Division 2's greatest strengths. At times, they can seem insufficiently interesting and secondary to the gameplay. Fallout 4 in this regard may appeal to gamers who enjoy a compelling narrative in a post-apocalyptic setting. Another criticism concerns the mining system. While The Division 2 has a more generous mining system than its predecessor, it could still be improved. Unlike Fallout 4, where the emphasis is on crafting and plenty of authentic items from the story, in The Division 2 the weapons and gear sometimes feel repetitive and too stodgy.
16. Days Gone
- Similarity: 60 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2019
- Game play time: 40 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
In Days Gone, players will step into the shoes of bounty hunter Deacon St. John and venture into a world devastated by a global pandemic and overrun by infected creatures known as freakers. Deep parallels can be drawn here with Fallout's post-nuclear war scenario, but with a greater emphasis on survival amongst the infected creatures rather than radioactive ghouls and super mutants. In terms of gameplay, Days Gone takes a slightly different direction than Fallout. The main emphasis in the game is on third-person combat and stealth mechanics. Also, unlike Fallout's role-playing system, Days Gone favors a more straightforward approach to storytelling, which may seem a bit discouraging to Fallout fans who enjoy a certain amount of autonomy and decision-making that determines the outcome of the game. The game's open world is vast and impressive, filled with missions, camps, and hordes of infected creatures around every corner. This goes without saying, of course, as exploring Fallout's open world is one of the most appealing aspects of the game. However, the world of Days Gone often feels more alive, thanks to dynamic weather systems and day-to-night cycles that affect enemy behavior. Graphically, Days Gone surpasses many games in its genre. The environments, characters, and especially the terrifying freakers are realized just stunningly. The attention to detail and beautiful but desolate landscapes are some of the game's greatest strengths. They give the world a life that feels more organic and less abandoned than Fallout's often barren and harsh environments. In conclusion, Days Gone is an interesting blend of a beautifully crafted horror genre with an open world.
15. Horizon Forbidden West
- Similarity: 60 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2022
- Game play time: 30 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
Horizon Forbidden West is a stunning sequel to its predecessor Horizon Zero Dawn, presenting players with a post-apocalyptic world to explore. Like the Fallout 4 series, there is a rich variety of gameplay mechanics and elements to keep you engrossed throughout the epic journey. Leading Aloy, the protagonist, through the majestic landscapes and ruins of a lost civilization is as rewarding an experience for the gamer as exploring the nuclear devastation in Fallout 4. Forbidden West's breathtaking graphics, improved over the previous installment, offer an enriched game environment teeming with life. Visuals are enhanced by dynamic weather effects, detailed environments and underwater exploration. The quests are interconnected, which is rare in games. In addition, the abundance of weapons, traps, and tools for hunting deadly robots makes for exciting encounters. However, some aspects of Horizon Forbidden West need refinement. Long journeys may frustrate players seeking constant action. In addition, the game's narrative can sometimes feel drawn out and boring.
14. Mad Max
- Similarity: 60 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2015
- Game play time: 40 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
Mad Max, although not reaching the same heights as the beloved Fallout series, successfully occupies its own niche in the world of post-apocalyptic games. With gorgeous graphics, addictive vehicular gameplay, and a huge open world, the game is able to enthrall the player, giving them many hours of thrilling exploration and vehicular combat. For those looking for a thrilling dystopian experience outside of the Fallout universe, Mad Max represents a worthy choice. Get behind the wheel, head out into the desert, and overcome the challenges that await you in this unique adventure.
13. Metro Exodus
- Similarity: 60 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2019
- Game play time: 30 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
While Metro Exodus has a compelling storyline, some players may find the game's pace slowed down due to its heavy focus on exploration. Additionally, despite the promising plot, the ending can be disappointing. As for the similarities between Fallout and Metro Exodus, it wouldn't be wrong to say that fans of the Fallout series can find the same level of immersion and rich story in Metro Exodus. However, these games differ from each other in many ways, such as game mechanics, story visuals, and level design. Overall, Metro Exodus is a must-play game for fans of the post-apocalyptic genre, and especially for those who love the combination of combat, stealth, and exploration. Despite a few minor flaws, the game is a worthy continuation of the Metro franchise.
12. State of Decay
- Similarity: 60 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2013
- Game play time: 40 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
What distinguishes the game from Fallout 4 is the more advanced mechanics of base building and resource management, as well as the constant fear of character death, forcing you to carefully weigh every decision. Fighting zombies with a variety of weapons is satisfying. Nevertheless, the game is far from the shooting mechanics of Fallout 4. The distinctive feature of State of Decay 2 is a unique multiplayer component, where you can team up with friends to survive in a harsh world, which may be appreciated by fans of Fallout 76.
11. The Last of Us Part II
- Similarity: 70 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2020
- Game play time: 30 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
The Last of Us Part I offers a more down-to-earth, linear experience compared to Fallout 4's open world. However, the detailed environments are no less immersive and allow for exploration, albeit more limited. Players concerned about the lack of freedom of movement should be pleased with the intense narrative that pushes the gameplay forward. The graphics are certainly impressive, providing intricate detail in both scenes and real-time gameplay. For those accustomed to Fallout 4's wide, sometimes less detailed landscapes, Last of Us Part I offers a platter of photorealistic visuals that are not only pleasing to look at, but also add to the game's sense of realism and tension. As for the story, without revealing spoilers, it's darker and more emotional than most other games, and considerably heavier than Fallout 4. The narrative is divisive, has complex character arcs and a plot that can sometimes be difficult to accept or even follow. However, the game differs significantly by making bold story decisions. Combat combines stealth and direct confrontation. Despite a less diverse arsenal of weapons than Fallout 4, the mechanics are much more visceral and strategic. Resources are limited and ammunition is a precious commodity. This scarcity forces players to employ tactics in every combat encounter. The character development system in The Last of Us Part II is more simplistic compared to the extensive perk system in Fallout 4. Instead of choosing from a wide range of abilities, players can only improve skills related to crafting, health, and combat. This simplistic approach may not appeal to those who appreciate the complexity of role-playing elements. The game's sound design is commendable. Every sound, from distant growls to rustling leaves, contributes to a tense atmosphere that Fallout 4 fans familiar with the danger lurking around every corner of the Wasteland will appreciate. The game has a sequel, Part 2.
10. Wasteland 3
- Similarity: 70 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2020
- Game play time: 60 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
Wasteland 3 is set in the post-apocalyptic wasteland of Colorado. The game is a thrilling, dark, humorous and filled with moral problems narrative. Players will have to become the head of a ranger squad, build a new base, find a lifeline for their comrades and deal with the Patriarch, the self-appointed ruler. Wasteland 3 improves on the tactical turn-based combat the series is known for. It features vehicles, cooperative gameplay, and a more optimized action system that makes battles faster and more interesting. In addition, the game features an extensive and complex dialog system that has a significant impact on the game world and story. The choices the player makes in the dialog system - in quests and in general - have real, far-reaching consequences, making each playthrough of the game unique. While the game can be overly complex at times and the tutorial is difficult, it's a rewarding and immersive experience that no fan of post-apocalyptic RPGs like Fallout should miss.
9. Atom RPG
A post-apocalyptic indie game developed and published by Atom Team. Heavily influenced by the popular Fallout series, the game pays homage to classic CRPGs, but also has its own personality. Set in a dystopian alternate reality in which the world was plunged into nuclear chaos in 1986, the game's storyline is engaging, filled with numerous philosophical dilemmas and deep existential questions. The game features a huge, detailed open world filled with multifaceted characters, diverse strategies, and exciting quests, striking a balance between eerily reminiscent of Fallout and originality. The dialogue system shares a stark post-apocalyptic landscape laced with naturally dark humor. Characters are detailed and their dialog is a tapestry of intriguing stories and references. Dialogue options provide choices, creating a sense of true interactivity. The turn-based battles, reminiscent of early Fallout games, are very engaging. However, the game could use a more refined AI, as enemies sometimes behave unpredictably. As for the graphics, you should not expect AAA quality from the game, but the visuals are quite nice and match the overall tone of the game. The design of the devastated landscapes perfectly conveys the desolation and hopelessness inherent in the aftermath of a nuclear disaster. The sound design, although minimalistic, brings an inescapable atmosphere of gloom. It perfectly complements the gloomy visuals. The game can be safely recommended to fans of the genre, but at the same time do not forget about its minor flaws and quirks.
8. Dustwind
A Fallout-inspired game that offers an exciting post-apocalyptic scenario in a real-time tactical mode. Departing from the traditional role-playing game, Dustwind uses real-time strategy (RTS) at the core of its gameplay. The game's setting is impressive in its aesthetics: the dystopian world is elaborated to the finest detail. The combat is unique: real-time strategy with pauses allows for strategic maneuvers and sophisticated gameplay. Character creation is of particular interest. Deep customization allows you to create a character according to your chosen play style. Nevertheless, this depth cannot help but intimidate novice players. A distinctive feature of Dustwind is its focus on multiplayer. Team matches are fun, but the lack of a full-fledged single-player campaign may be a drawback for some. Overall, while Dustwind draws inspiration from Fallout, it goes its own way with a peculiar blend of RTS and RPG mechanics. Its high replayability and extensive multiplayer options make it a unique addition to the post-apocalyptic genre.
7. Fallen Earth
- Similarity: 80 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2009
- Game play time: 40 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
The setting of the post-apocalyptic Earth is visually appealing, and real-time battles are combined with RPG elements to create an enjoyable gameplay experience. The rich character and crafting customization system is a huge plus, giving gamers a tremendous amount of flexibility. However, Fallen Earth shares the common MMO problem of slow development and "grind" gameplay, which may not appeal to those who are used to a different pace and structure. The interaction with the game's community is impressive, and reminiscent of the player interactivity in Fallout 76. However, it's worth noting that due to the age of the game, there aren't as many users as there were at launch time. It can be said that Fallen Earth, despite its flaws, has enough elements to please any Fallout fan, especially those who love MMOs and Fallout 76.
6. Broken Roads
Role-playing game in the world of post-apocalypse, but not in America, but in Australia (because the developers live there). Very reminiscent of the first parts of Fallout - top view, turn-based battles, morality system (you can be good or bad).
5. Encased
The game is set in an alternate 1970, and you are an employee of a corporation tasked with exploring an alien dome. The desolate ruins and the horrors lurking within them are reminiscent of the radioactive wastelands from Fallout. The game vividly utilizes this setting to create tension and world building. The graphics may seem a bit dated compared to AAA games, but they still do a decent job of conveying the post-apocalyptic aesthetic. Dialogs are well written, and the voice acting contributes to the atmosphere and all-around character development. The game is based on a turn-based combat model, which is reminiscent of the one in the first Fallout installments. A huge choice of weapons, skills and tactics makes battles interesting and exciting. However, it wouldn't hurt to refine the battle animation a bit. Crafting and survival elements bring variety to the gameplay, creating an appealing mix of genres.
4. Krater
Paying homage to the post-apocalyptic world of Fallout, Krater presents a colorful and quirky role-playing game. The action is set in a post-apocalyptic Sweden. The battles are not turn-based, but real-time. You control several characters at once, each with unique abilities, equipment, weapons, etc. While the RPG elements are commendable, the lack of character depth is a drawback. The character development system also leaves much to be desired when compared to the depth of customization in Fallout. However, Krater makes up for this with a detailed item crafting system and cooperative play. While Krater is no Fallout, its unique charm and innovation will surely appeal to gamers looking for something new in post-apocalyptic RPGs.
3. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl
You play as a Skiff, a stalker. That's what they call people who go to the "zone". A place full of bandits, mutants and anomalies. A place where you can find artifacts that can make anyone rich. A localized nuclear disaster has happened in the "zone", which is similar to the plot of the Fallout series, where the world exists after a nuclear war. Stalker is a first-person open-world game with RPG elements.
2. The Outer Worlds
- Similarity: 90 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2019
- Game play time: 30 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
The Outer Worlds, developed by Obsidian Entertainment, draws inspiration from powerful series such as Fallout. As you progress through this first-person role-playing game, it becomes clear that the developers' experience with the Fallout games, especially New Vegas, greatly influenced its feel, but The Outer Worlds is a unique game in its own right. Set on an alien world that is alternately jaded and vibrant, The Outer Worlds offers a satirical look at corporate bureaucracy and capitalist structures. The player must travel through the intertwined storylines of various planets and space stations, completing missions and making choices that have a tangible impact on the game's world and its inhabitants. Combat in The Outer Worlds, like Fallout, gives players a strategic advantage with Tactical Time Dilation, mirroring the V.A.T.S. system we know and love from Fallout. This mechanic adds a tactical advantage to real-time combat and gives you more options than in most action-RPGs. Graphically, The Outer Worlds is simply captivating. The world design is beautifully imaginative and distinctive, with greenery, imposing industrial facilities and wastelands interspersed throughout planets adorned with stunning skyscrapers. The character designs, while not always stunningly detailed, are distinctive and well remembered. In terms of sound design, the game is very atmospheric. In addition to the relatively sparse but well-chosen musical score, the environmental sounds and voice acting stand out. The voice acting is excellent, and even the secondary characters are well developed and interesting, often relying on dark humor laced with sarcastic satire. The role-playing elements are also well done, and the pumping system rewards the player for their investment. Dialogue options and skill checks allow for the creation of different characters, and as in Fallout 4, players can act in different situations depending on their chosen skills. For those who crave a new sci-fi adventure filled with humor, moral issues, and a vividly detailed universe, The Outer Worlds is a journey worth taking.
1. Underrail
- Similarity: 90 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2015
- Game play time: 60 hours
Indie post-apocalyptic turn-based role-playing game, very similar in narrative style, mechanics and complexity to the first installments of the Fallout series. The rich but subtly presented story of the underworld immediately intrigues players. Interaction with factions and non-player characters (NPCs), as in Fallout, plays a key role in progressing through the game. Graphically, the game evokes nostalgia with its isometric overhead view, while the sound design helps create an eerie atmosphere. The game offers a complex system of item creation and character customization, which will not appeal to everyone. And the lack of an active quest index may piss off some players.
