Summary
Fallouthas an extensive past and a deeply dedicated fan base going back to the original, highly renowned CRPGs, which introduced players to an immersive and darkly humorous post-nuclear apocalypse atomic-age America. The first two titles became classics of the genre and are still celebrated today. Later, Bethesda Studios, known prior for itsElder Scrollsfranchise, acquired the rights toFalloutand produced an FPS RPG title in 2008 that was a big change from the previous direction, but put the series firmly in the mainstream.
Following that,Bethesda contracted Obsidian Entertainment to createFallout: New Vegasin 2010; considered by many to be better or at least a more “genuine"Falloutexperience than Bethesda’s handling of the series. Some fans might be aware that Obsidian is/was composed of some developers who had worked on the IP before it passed to Bethesda, and the studio’s familiarity with the property is often cited as a major reason for this. AlthoughFallout 5is still far off, as Bethesda is currently developing thenextElder Scrolls, there is a good argument for it to be set in New Orleans, as doing so would address two items simultaneously.
Fallout 5 Taking Place in New Orleans Could Cover Two Angles at Once
New Orleans Is Already A Great Fallout Location
WhileFallout’s settings are generally well-realized, ranging from the Capital Wasteland of Washington, D.C., California, Boston, and the Appalachian Mountain region, they aren’t necessarily quite as distinct in terms of iconic elements in the way New Orleans is. Arguably the most similar setting so far to a New Orleans vibe might beFallout 3’sPoint LookoutDLC, set in rural Maryland’s marshes and swamplands. With its storied history and blend of cultural influences from a diverse range of backgrounds, however, opportunities for a plethora of excellent content and avenues forFalloutadventures in the Big Easyand nearby locales abound.
New Orleans' occult voodoo vibe already brings zombies to mind, whichFOessentially has covered in the form of ghouls, but they could be more thematically stepped in the supernatural/spiritual side specific to the area, with figures like Papa Legba and Baron Samedi providing inspiration forFalloutversions; perhaps as part of a series of side quests similar toFallout 4’s Silver Shroudmissions, but with their own unique spin rooted in tradition. Native animals such as alligators and crawfish could also be creative enemies, maybe appearing as Deathclaw variants. New Orleans and its surrounding areas present a perfect playground and a wealth of subject matter forF5to recreate and draw from.
Fallout 5 Being Set in New Orleans Might Feel Like a New Vegas Successor
After the positive reception toFallout: New Vegas,speculation persisted that a follow-up could happen, if not a directNew Vegas 2, then a spiritual successor, closer toNVthanFallout 3in style and spirit. It would have been a welcome turn, but never materialized. IfF5were possibly set in New Orleans, though, it would likely feel very much like the desiredsequel toNew Vegasthat fans have been calling for. With Obsidian and Bethesda now both first-party Microsoft developers, chances are theoretically better than ever for one to happen. Although this doesn’t seem likely currently, the opportunity for cross-collaboration still exists, and would be an excellent surprise ifF5ended up being along those lines.
Obisidan reportedly pitched anElder Scrollsspin-off/sequel in the vein ofNew Vegas,and held early talks with Bethesda regarding one, but the project was ultimately rejected.
New Vegasalso had an extensive reputation systemwhich was absent fromF4. This could return in a New Orleans setting, with many possible groups stylized around various eclectic aspects of the city’s heritage, showing what kinds of organizations formed in the wake of post-apocalyptic society in an incredibly interesting way. Though little is known aboutFallout 5’s setting at this point, it would be a fascinating and fun angle if Bethesda and/or Obsidian decided to consider placing it in New Orleans.
