Summary
When the nextFalloutgame comes out, it could potentially overshadowBorderlandsby replicating one of that series' previous feats. TheFalloutgames and theBorderlandsseries do have a few details in common. Namely, both are first-person shooters that take place in a hostile environment, allowing the player to wield firearms of various levels of technology. In addition to the differing leveling mechanics,Falloutusually takes itself seriously, while theBorderlandsgames have a wackier mood. Even so, there is one other area whereFalloutcould not only followBorderlands' lead, but steal its thunder: a fantasy geme.
As can be seen by thesilent protagonists of theFalloutseries, the storytelling is largely driven by the many characters that the players encounter and the quests that they give. WhileBorderlandsmeets some of the same tropes, its presentation is far more extravagant. WhileFalloutis almost entirely seen through the eyes of the protagonist,Borderlandsgames have several devoted cutscenes, such as boss intros and important story scenes. These approaches may be due to the nature of the stories, sinceBorderlands' approach is more suited to its wild tales. Even so, it has some ideas thatFalloutcould use for itself.
Fallout Could Have Its Own Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands Gave Borderlands a Fantasy Twist
Borderlands' shooting action has spanned several games, butfantasy spin-offTiny Tina’s Wonderlandsgave the series a new coat of paint. Featuring fantasy-themed versions of canon characters as well as some wholly original ones, it painted many series traditions in a new light.Tiny Tina’s Wonderlandssaw players shooting their way through hordes of skeletons and other monsters, casting spells and swinging swords for good measure. The presentation was further pushed by the narration from Tiny Tina herself, making the game even wilder than the typicalBorderlandsfare. This brand of silliness may not beFallout’s usual fare, but it may still be worth exploring.
Fallout Could Benefit From a Setting Change in a Spin-Off
Shifting to a lighter, more fantastical world would be abig turn forFallout, even as a spin-off. That could be exactly what could make such a game a good idea, though. Remixing oldFalloutstaples through a new lens would open the door for more creative ideas. It could be a fantasy theme likeTiny Tina’s Wonderlands, or go in another direction, such as fully comitting to an outer space or robot theme - two areas Fallout has touched on in the past. Not only could this giveFallout’s weapons and fighting style a revamp, but it would be a chance to introduce characters, factions, and creatures that players would never see inFalloutotherwise.
A Fallout Spin-Off Could Stretch the Series' Creativity
A spin-off could also let the developers dabble with new ideas whileforging new horizons forFallout. For one, aFalloutspin-off with a more fantastical story could include more lighthearted fare than the series norm.Fallout’s universe can be grim, morally grey, and both, so it could be time for a refreshing change of pace. Not to mention, it could be a chance to experiment in exciting new ways. For instance, ifFalloutdoes do a fantasy spin-off, then one of the series iconic Deathclaws could be turned into a dragon. That’s only scratching the surface of what a spin-off could do.
Remixing oldFalloutstaples through a new lens would open the door for more creative ideas.
TheFalloutuniverse is a serious one, but it can still explore its more creative side. There is agood case for aFalloutspin-offalready thanks to the belovedNew Vegas, andTiny Tina’s Wonderlandshelps show that another approach to spin-offs would be possible if the series wants to really shake things up. An adventurous leap into a more over-the-top setting could lead to a fun side game forFalloutfans, especially if it includes some creative new takes on franchise standbys such as V.A.T.S. and power armor.
