Introduction

Fallout 3 might be one of the most-anticipated games in recent memory, and for good reason. Initially in development by the now-defunct Black Isle studios under the project codename Van Buren, Fallout 3 was originally going to take a completely different route. But in 2003, Black Isle Studios went under, and in 2004, the rights to Fallout 3 were sold to Bethesda Softworks. Instead of using the Van Buren code, Bethesda opted to start from scratch. And thus, the Fallout 3 we know and love today was born.

Fallout 3's four year development process was well-worth it, for this is a post-apocalyptic RPG with Bethesda stylings all over it. The game is epically massive, and finding everything on your own will be a daunting task indeed. That's where IGN Guides comes in, with one of its biggest, most complex and complete guides in its decade-long history. After all, the Capital Wasteland is one hell of a place to try to survive on your own. That's why we'll hold your hand from beginning to end.

Our Basics section covers all of Fallout 3's many fundamentals, so that new players can learn the game's complicated mechanics and style-of-play, while veterans to this type of game can simply brush up on their skills. The Walkthrough and Side Quests sections will hold the player's hand through each and every aspect of the game, complete with plenty of explanations and screenshots. And finally, our Appendices section is our vast compendium of knowledge, with information on items, weapons, armor, enemies, and much, much more.

The year is 2277. Life as we know it today is far gone. And it's up to you to find your lost father... and get to the bottom of just what's going on in the post-war United States.

In this Fallout 3 strategy guide, you'll find:

• BASICS // It's tough to survive in a nuclear wasteland. We can help.
• WALKTHROUGH // Step-by-step help through the game's main quest.
• SIDE QUESTS // Bethesda games are all about the side quests, and we've got you covered.
• APPENDICES // A wealth of information for those traveling around the Capital Wasteland.

Guide by: Colin Moriarty