Is Fallout 76 not canon?

Is Fallout 76 Not Canon?

Fallout 76, the online multiplayer action role-playing game, has been a topic of controversy among fans of the Fallout series. One of the most debated questions surrounding the game is whether it is considered canon or not. In this article, we will delve into the history of the Fallout series and examine the arguments for and against Fallout 76’s canon status.

Fallout’s Canon History

Before we dive into Fallout 76, it’s essential to understand the canon history of the Fallout series. The first Fallout game was released in 1997, and since then, the series has grown to include multiple games, expansions, and spin-offs. While the games are often referred to as "non-canonical" or "optional canon," the general consensus among fans and developers is that the games form a cohesive narrative.

In the early days of the series, the developers did not explicitly state which games were considered canon. However, with the release of Fallout 3 in 2008, the series began to take a more cohesive direction. The developers released a "Fallout Bible," a comprehensive guide that outlined the series’ backstory, characters, and plot. This document solidified the canon status of Fallout 3 and its sequel, Fallout: New Vegas.

Fallout 76’s Canon Status

Fast forward to Fallout 76, released in 2018. The game was met with mixed reactions from fans and critics alike. One of the most significant criticisms was the game’s lack of a coherent storyline and its departure from the traditional Fallout formula. This led to questions about the game’s canon status.

In an interview, the game’s director, Todd Howard, stated that Fallout 76 is part of the Fallout universe, but its storyline is not connected to the previous games. This led to speculation about whether the game is canon or not.

Arguments For and Against Fallout 76’s Canon Status

Arguments For:

• Shared Universe: Fallout 76 is set in the same universe as the other Fallout games, sharing locations, characters, and references.

• In-game Lore: The game includes a rich lore that adds depth to the Fallout universe, exploring the history and cultures of the game’s characters and factions.

• Influence on the Series: Fallout 76 has already influenced the series, with elements from the game appearing in other Fallout media, such as books and comics.

Arguments Against:

• Disconnection from Previous Games: Fallout 76’s storyline is not connected to the previous games, creating a disconnect between the two.

• Lack of Cohesive Narrative: The game’s story is fragmented and lacks a cohesive narrative, making it difficult to fit into the series’ overall canon.

• Changes to Canon Characters: The game alters or introduces new characters that deviate from their previous incarnations, potentially rewriting canon.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the debate about Fallout 76’s canon status is ongoing and complex. While the game is part of the Fallout universe, its storyline is not directly connected to the previous games. The game’s influence on the series, shared universe, and in-game lore argue for its canon status, while its disconnected narrative and alterations to canon characters argue against it.

Ultimately, whether or not Fallout 76 is considered canon is up to individual interpretation. Fans can choose to accept the game as part of the Fallout canon, or dismiss it as a standalone story. As the series continues to evolve, it’s possible that Fallout 76’s canon status will be reevaluated or expanded upon.

Table: Fallout 76’s Canon Status Debate

Recommendations

• For fans who want to continue exploring the Fallout series, consider playing Fallout 4 and Fallout: New Vegas before diving into Fallout 76.

• For new players, start with the original Fallout game and progress through the series, culminating in Fallout 4.

• For players interested in exploring the lore of Fallout 76, consider reading the game’s books and comics, as well as online resources that provide additional background information on the game’s characters and factions.

By understanding the history and complexities of Fallout’s canon, fans can continue to engage with the series and its characters, whether or not Fallout 76 is considered canon.