What is the Canon Ending to Fallout?
The Fallout series has captivated gamers with its rich storyline, intricate characters, and post-apocalyptic setting. The franchise has spawned numerous games, with each installment offering a unique take on the Fallout universe. As we delve into the world of Fallout, a question arises: what is the canon ending to Fallout? In this article, we will explore the canon endings of various Fallout games and provide a comprehensive overview of the series’ narrative.
Fallout 1 and 2: Defining the Canon
The original Fallout and its sequel, Fallout 2, laid the foundation for the series’ lore. While there is no single "official" ending to these games, the Vault Dweller’s Memoirs from the Fallout 2 manual outline the events that occur after the game’s main quest. According to the memo, the Vault Dweller killed the Master and the Lieutenant, rescued Tandi, and destroyed the Khans.
Fallout 3: The Capitol Wasteland
Fallout 3, released in 2008, introduced a new setting and characters. The game’s main quest culminates in the player’s choice between siding with the Brotherhood of Steel or the Enclave. The canon ending, as confirmed by Fallout 4, is that Project Purity worked, and the Commonwealth was restored to a state of relative peace. The Brotherhood of Steel reunited with the Outcasts, and Rivet City was dismantled and scavenged to build the Prydwen.
Fallout: New Vegas: A Tale of Two Endings
Fallout: New Vegas, released in 2010, offered a unique branching storyline. The game’s main quest centered around the Courier’s quest for revenge, with multiple endings depending on the player’s choices. There is no single "official" ending to New Vegas, as the game’s developer, Obsidian Entertainment, intentionally left the outcome open to interpretation.
Fallout 4: The Commonwealth’s Future
Fallout 4, released in 2015, takes place 200 years after the events of Fallout 3. The game’s main quest sees the player’s character, the Sole Survivor, navigating the ruins of Boston. The canon ending, as mentioned earlier, is that Project Purity worked, and the Commonwealth was restored. The game’s DLCs, including "Nuka-World" and "Far Harbor," expand on the story, but do not alter the overall canon.
DLCs: Canon or Not?
The Fallout series has seen numerous DLCs, each with its own story and characters. Some DLCs, such as "Big MT" and "Old World Blues," are considered part of the canon, while others, like "Lonesome Road," are not. The key to determining canon is to examine the events leading up to the DLC and whether they have a significant impact on the overall storyline.
Conclusion
The canon ending to Fallout is a complex and multifaceted topic. While there is no single "official" ending, the games’ narratives and DLCs provide a comprehensive overview of the series’ storyline. By examining the events of each game and DLC, we can piece together the canon ending to Fallout.
Canon Ending Summary
| Game | Ending Summary |
|---|---|
| Fallout 1 | The Vault Dweller killed the Master and the Lieutenant, rescued Tandi, and destroyed the Khans. |
| Fallout 2 | The Vault Dweller defeated the Enclave and restored the United States. |
| Fallout 3 | Project Purity worked, and the Commonwealth was restored. |
| Fallout: New Vegas | Multiple endings depending on the player’s choices. |
| Fallout 4 | Project Purity worked, and the Commonwealth was restored. |
In conclusion, the canon ending to Fallout is a combination of the events outlined above. By understanding the narrative of each game and DLC, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the Fallout universe and its rich history. Whether you’re a seasoned Fallout veteran or a newcomer to the series, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the canon endings to Fallout.