What Happened to the Original Vault Dweller?
The original Vault Dweller, the protagonist of Fallout, is a mysterious and intriguing character. His departure from Vault 13, marked the beginning of a dark and uncertain future for humanity. In this article, we will delve into the events surrounding the Vault Dweller’s disappearance and provide a comprehensive overview of the circumstances that led to his vanishing.
Background
Vault 13 was one of the many vaults built by Vault-Tec, a government-operated organization responsible for building underground shelters to protect survivors of a nuclear war. The vaults were equipped with advanced technology and enough resources to sustain life for hundreds of years. In 2161, when the Great War ravaged the Earth, Vault 13 was sealed, sealing the fate of its dwellers.
The Initial Departure
On May 16, 2178, the Vault 13 dwellers awoke to find that the door to their vault had swung open. The Vault Overseer, a mysterious individual, revealed that the Water Chip, a crucial device that controlled the vault’s life-support systems, was malfunctioning. The overseer ordered the dwellers to send a team, led by the Vault Dweller, to find and obtain a replacement Water Chip from the nearby Vault 15.
The Truth Revealed
The truth behind the Vault Dweller’s disappearance is shrouded in mystery. Several theories have emerged over the years, but the primary reason for his vanishing remains unclear. One school of thought suggests that he was killed by the creatures that inhabited the wastelands outside the vault, while another theory proposes that he was captured by a group of raiders, who later sold him as a slave.
Uncovering the Truth
Rumors and speculations about the Vault Dweller’s fate have been ongoing for decades. In Fallout Bible 0, a document created by Tim Cain, the co-creator of Fallout, it is revealed that the Vault Dweller was left behind in Vault 15, where he was meant to find the Water Chip. However, Cain notes that this information is contradicting, and the original plan was to have the Vault Dweller leave the vault and venture into the wastelands.
The Vault Dweller’s Legacy
Despite the uncertain fate of the original Vault Dweller, his story has had a lasting impact on the Fallout universe. His departure from Vault 13 marked the beginning of humanity’s struggle to survive and rebuild in a post-nuclear world. The Vault Dweller’s journey has also inspired countless other characters, serving as a symbol of bravery and determination in the face of adversity.
Vault Dweller’s Age and Gender
The Vault Dweller’s age and gender were intentionally left ambiguous by the game’s developers. Some fans believe that he is a 20-year-old male, while others claim that he is a teenager or even a woman.
Conclusion
The enigmatic fate of the original Vault Dweller remains an enduring mystery in the world of Fallout. His vanishing has sparked numerous conspiracy theories and debates among fans, leaving us with as many questions as answers. Although we may never know for certain what happened to him, his legacy continues to inspire and captivate new generations of gamers and role-players.
Further Reading
- Fallout Bible 0, a document created by Tim Cain, provides insight into the original plan for the Vault Dweller’s character and story.
- The Fallout Wiki, a comprehensive online resource, offers detailed information on Vault 13, Vault 15, and the water chip.
- GameFAQs, a dedicated gaming community, features guides, walkthroughs, and discussions on the Fallout franchise.
Table: Notable Events in the Timeline of the Original Vault Dweller
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 16, 2178 | Vault 13 awakens, and the Overseer reveals the Water Chip malfunction. |
| Same day | The Vault Dweller is sent to retrieve the Water Chip from Vault 15. |
| Unknown | The Vault Dweller disappears, leaving Vault 13 and the rest of humanity to wonder what happened to him. |
| 2161 | The Great War ravages the Earth, and Vault-Tec builds underground shelters. |
| 2178 | Vault 13 seal is opened, and the dwellers are awakened to find the Water Chip malfunction. |
References:
- Fallout Bible 0, https://fallout-archive.fandom.com/wiki/Fallout_Bible_0
- Fallout Wiki, https://fallout.gamepedia.com/Fallout_Wiki
- GameFAQs, https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/