David Turner

I went into this game with expectations through the floor due to the launch reception. I was one of the ones that cancelled my pre-order after the beta feedback came through, clear as day. Never stopped being a fan of Fallout though, and specifically Bethesda Fallout. After trying it for the free week, I bought a copy for myself and a friend. If you are a fan of BGS world exploration, this game is an absolute gem. The thing that I love most about Morrowind on through Fallout 4 has always been the world; seeing what's over the next hill. That's present here as much as it has ever been. The lack of NPCs is something they are addressing later this year, but it's worth noting that I (along with most, probably) assumed not having NPCs was a corner cutting maneuver. A "creative decision" excuse not to craft storylines or have compelling characters. I can say that my assumption on that front was completely wrong. The stories are there, in robot NPCs and terminal entries. The personal stories and interesting characters have been written, in holotapes and notes. It really does feel like the "every living human you meet is a player" thing was in fact an honest to goodness creative decision that didn't really pan out all that well for fans, and good on BGS, they're going back and fixing it. In the meantime though, if you're willing to quite literally rummage through the rubble, the stories you crave are there, waiting to be found. Also worth mentioning that as somebody who has seen this engine evolve over time since Morrowind, it's an absolute marvel seeing it be multiplayer compatible for the first time. While I realize there's still some issues to iron out, after seeing modders try and mostly fail at this same thing since... well, Morrowind, I can't help but say bravo. On that note, if you're concerned about the multiplayer element, know that the map is large enough and the player count per server small enough that for the most part it's something you have to seek out at dedicated cooperative events or by inviting a friend along. Also, since there is now a dedicated PvP Adventure mode (Survival) AND a BR mode, most of the players into that kind of thing are off on those ends, leaving Adventure Mode for fellow like-minded players, just out there enjoying another BGS world to explore and are generally happy - or at least indifferent - to see another person like them. In sum, while I'm sure I am the beneficiary of some stability patches that have come along the way over the past 8 months or so, I can say this game is woefully underrated. If you love Fallout and you love BGS titles, it's worth your time.