Are the Enclave Bad Guys?
The Enclave is a faction in the Fallout universe that has garnered a significant amount of controversy among fans. While they may not be the traditional "bad guys" like the Super Mutants or the Brotherhood of Steel’s more extreme members, they certainly have their own agenda and methods that raise some moral questions. In this article, we’ll delve into the Enclave’s motivations, actions, and morality, and explore whether they are indeed "bad guys".
What is the Enclave?
The Enclave is a remnant of the pre-war United States government, specifically the Department of the Army’s research and development branch, known as the United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID). Led by Colonel Augustus Branch, the Enclave sees itself as the true, post-apocalyptic government and seeks to restore the country to its former glory through any means necessary.
Their Motivations and Goals
The Enclave’s primary goal is to restore the pre-war social and political order, specifically by eliminating all mutations caused by the Great War, which they believe are ruining the country. They view the mutated humans and mutated creatures as "abnormal" and "unstable", and believe that purifying the gene pool through genetic engineering and selective breeding is the key to revitalizing society.
Why are they considered "Bad Guys"?
The Enclave’s methods are considered extreme and morally questionable, as they are willing to use force, manipulation, and even genocide to achieve their goals. Some of their actions include:
• Using modified FEV to wipe out mutated species: The Enclave creates a modified version of the Forced Evolutionary Virus (FEV) to render mutated species extinct, eradicating entire ecosystems in the process.
• Experimenting on humans and animals: The Enclave conducts twisted experiments on human subjects, including forced inoculation with the modified FEV, and tests these experiments on animals.
• Imprisoning dissenters: The Enclave imprisons anyone who refuses to cooperate with their cause, including those who pose a threat to their mission.
• Warring with other factions: The Enclave engages in all-out war with other factions, such as the Brotherhood of Steel, who may not share their extreme views.
Are they still considered "Bad Guys"?
While the Enclave’s actions are certainly objectionable, it’s crucial to consider their motivations. Are they truly "bad guys" for trying to restore order and stability, even if their methods are extreme? Or are they simply misguided and misinformed about the nature of the post-apocalyptic world?
Conclusion
Ultimately, whether the Enclave is considered "bad guys" depends on one’s perspective. While their methods are morally reprehensible, their motivations are rooted in a desire to restore a pre-war society that never truly existed. It’s essential to consider the complex moral landscape of the Fallout universe and the motivations and actions of all factions.
Additional Resources
Here are some additional resources and quotes from the Fallout lore that may be of interest:
- Fallout 2: "It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being better. And we are the ones who can do it." – Colonel Augustus Branch
- Fallout 3: "The Enclave may be willing to do extreme things, but they believe they’re doing it for the greater good." – Colonel Augustus Branch (note: this quote suggests that the Enclave at least believes they are acting out of altruism, although this is debatable).
I hope this article and the additional resources provide some insight into the Enclave’s motivations and actions in the Fallout universe. Remember to consider the complexities and nuances of the Fallout universe when evaluating the morality of its factions.