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MONSTER

Fallout 4

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Fallout 4
Item: Fallout 4
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2015

GenresAdventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Open World, RPG, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableNov 9, 2015

PlatformPlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperBethesda Game Studios

Overview

Bethesda Game Studios welcome you to the world of Fallout 4, their most ambitious game ever, and the next generation of open-world gaming. As the sole survivor of Vault 111, you enter a world destroyed by nuclear war. Every second is a fight for survival, and every choice is yours. Only you can rebuild and determine the fate of the Wasteland. Welcome home.

Elsewhere

8.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Fallout 4's story is a double-edged sword: critics praise its emotional premise and family themes, highlighting the protagonist's quest for their kidnapped son as a compelling hook. However, many express disappointment over its shallow execution and convoluted narrative, with a lack of depth and coherence undermining the initial intrigue. Dialogue is overly simplistic, reducing rich interactions to basic choices. While there's potential for a deeper story, it often feels like a backdrop for exploration rather than a strong narrative force, leaving a mixed reception that calls for better storytelling in future games.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions regarding the story of Fallout 4 present a mixed bag, with several critics acknowledging its engaging premise and emotional stakes. For instance, Shacknews highlights the emotional weight of the protagonist's quest to find their kidnapped son, which adds a layer of personal investment to the narrative. Similarly, Gaming Nexus praises the storyline for its exploration of family themes and the complexities of various factions, suggesting that the narrative is both rich and layered. Critics like IGN Spain and Digital Chumps also note the captivating nature of the setting and the character-driven elements, indicating that the game successfully evokes emotions and provides a strong motivation for exploration. However, a significant number of reviewers express dissatisfaction with the story's execution, citing a lack of depth and coherence. Kill Screen criticizes the emotional depth, pointing out a rushed introduction that fails to connect players to the protagonist's past. Riot Pixels and Ragequit.gr echo this sentiment, noting that while the initial premise is intriguing, the narrative devolves into a nonsensical faction conflict lacking motivation and originality. Furthermore, critics like Noisy Pixel and PCWorld mention that the story feels convoluted and often leads to silly situations, detracting from the overall experience. The dialogue system is also criticized for being overly simplistic, reducing complex interactions to basic choices, which diminishes the narrative experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Fallout 4's story has a compelling foundation with emotional stakes, it ultimately falls short in delivering a cohesive and meaningful narrative. Many reviewers, such as Forbes and Guardian, acknowledge the potential for depth and complexity, particularly in the third act and through emergent storytelling, yet they also highlight the game's shortcomings in character development and pacing. The narrative seems to serve more as a vehicle for exploration rather than a strong narrative force, leading to a mixed reception that emphasizes the need for a more nuanced storytelling approach in future installments.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Fallout 4 impresses with enhanced combat and an engaging open world, praised for its exploration, crafting, and settlement building. However, critics lament its repetitive quests and shallow dialogue, arguing it sacrifices RPG depth for action. Overall, it’s a mixed experience: thrilling yet lacking the meaningful character interactions that define classic RPGs.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Fallout 4 has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its exploration and combat mechanics. Many reviewers, such as Guardian and PlayStation Universe, highlight the improved gunplay and the balance between shooting and the V.A.T.S. system, which enhances the overall combat experience. Critics like Riot Pixels and GameTrailers note the engaging open world filled with opportunities for scavenging and crafting, with the introduction of settlement building being a notable addition that adds depth to player interaction. The crafting mechanics have been praised for their complexity and customization options, as pointed out by critics like God is a Geek and COGconnected, allowing players to tailor their gameplay experience significantly. Despite these positives, several critics express concerns about the game's shortcomings. Kill Screen and Ragequit.gr emphasize that while the exploration aspect is engaging, the dialogue and quest mechanics feel limiting and repetitive, detracting from the role-playing experience. Many reviewers, including Eurogamer Italy and Game Revolution, note that the game sacrifices character depth and meaningful interactions for a more action-oriented approach, leading to a sense of repetitiveness in quests and tasks. Critics like Arcade Sushi and Softpedia also point out that while the crafting system is extensive, it lacks a meaningful impact on the game world, which can lead to an overall sense of unfocused gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Fallout 4 presents a mixed bag of gameplay experiences. While many appreciate the improvements in combat, exploration, and crafting systems, there is a shared sentiment that the game falls short of its RPG roots, with a lack of meaningful quests and character development. Critics like Vandal and USgamer acknowledge the freedom and variety the game offers, yet they also highlight the feeling that some elements are less impactful than in previous titles. This duality suggests that while Fallout 4 succeeds in creating an engaging open-world experience, it may not fully satisfy fans of traditional role-playing games.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Fallout 4's graphics spark mixed reviews: stunning environments and atmospheric lighting receive praise, while outdated character models and technical issues frustrate many. Despite improvements on PS5 and Xbox Series X, critics agree the game struggles with visual fidelity and polish, offering a rich world but falling short of modern standards. Overall, it's a blend of immersive design and significant flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

69%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Fallout 4 have garnered a mix of praise and criticism from various reviewers, highlighting certain strengths that contribute to the game's overall appeal. Critics such as Digital Spy and Worth Playing commend the stunning environments and atmospheric lighting that effectively capture the essence of a post-apocalyptic Boston. The game’s vibrant color palette and detailed world design, as noted by Official Xbox Magazine UK, create a rich contrast between the remnants of suburban life and the devastation of the Commonwealth. Additionally, some reviewers, like Noisy Pixel and IGN Spain, acknowledge that the PS5 and Xbox Series X updates have significantly improved visual fidelity, enhancing lighting and weather effects, which contribute to a more immersive experience. However, despite these positives, a significant number of critics express disappointment regarding the overall graphical quality, particularly in character models and textures. Games.cz and Multiplayer.it emphasize that many aspects of the visual design feel outdated, with poor textures and basic models failing to meet modern standards. Critics like Ragequit.gr and Everyeye.it point out that the game suffers from technical issues, including glitches and framerate drops, that detract from the visual experience. The aging engine is frequently cited as a limiting factor, with several reviewers, including Hardcore Gamer and Game Rant, noting that while the game has improved upon its predecessors, it still falls short of the graphical benchmarks set by contemporary titles. The overall consensus among critics indicates that while Fallout 4 excels in creating an immersive and atmospheric world, it is hindered by outdated graphical elements and technical shortcomings. Many reviewers, such as Shacknews and GameCritics, agree that the game does not push the graphical envelope, often describing its visuals as rough or lacking polish. Despite the breathtaking environments and the engaging scope of the game, the persistent issues with character models and textures leave a lingering sense of disappointment. Ultimately, Fallout 4's visual design is characterized by a juxtaposition of impressive world-building and notable technical flaws, leading to a mixed reception that reflects both its strengths and weaknesses.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Fallout 4's sound design and music shine with an immersive atmosphere, praised for its original score and nostalgic 40s-50s tracks. Critics highlight strong voice acting and effective soundscapes that deepen the post-apocalyptic experience. However, issues like audio glitches, repetitive music from past games, and inconsistent voice performances mar the overall quality. While the audio elements elevate the game, notable flaws prevent it from reaching perfection, showcasing both brilliance and areas for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music in Fallout 4 have received considerable praise from critics, highlighting the game's ability to create an immersive atmosphere through its audio elements. Reviewers like 3DJuegos and Atomix commend the high-quality original score and the inclusion of licensed tracks from the 40s and 50s, which contribute to the game's unique ambiance. Critics such as Critical Hit and Push Square note that the sound design effectively enhances the post-apocalyptic setting, with ambient noises and sound effects that draw players deeper into the experience. Additionally, the voice acting has been recognized as a strong point, with CGMagazine and USgamer noting solid performances that support the narrative effectively, particularly the addition of a voiced protagonist that adds depth to character interactions. However, not all feedback is positive, as several critics point out notable shortcomings. Issues with audio consistency and glitches, as mentioned by Dealspwn and Gaming Nexus, detract from the overall experience, with some reviewers like Game Over Online noting instances where music drowns out important dialogue. The repetition of music from previous installments, particularly Fallout 3, has also been criticized, with PCWorld and Everyeye.it expressing disappointment over the lack of variety in the soundtrack. Furthermore, some voice performances have been described as inconsistent, with Worth Playing highlighting a mix of solid work alongside low-effort performances. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Fallout 4's sound design and music contribute significantly to its atmosphere and immersion, there are notable flaws that prevent it from achieving perfection. The inclusion of nostalgic music and strong voice acting is frequently praised, as seen in reviews from Gameblog.fr and Arcade Sushi, yet the issues of repetition and audio glitches mentioned by critics like GamingTrend and PCGames suggest that the audio experience could have been more polished. Ultimately, Fallout 4's audio elements are a double-edged sword, offering moments of brilliance while also revealing areas in need of improvement.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Fallout 4's voice acting marks a significant leap for Bethesda, praised for enhancing emotional depth and immersion, especially through a fully voiced protagonist. However, critics also highlight inconsistencies, uneven performances, and a flawed dialogue system that limit player agency. While it elevates the experience, the execution remains uneven, leaving room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Fallout 4 has received a range of positive feedback from critics, highlighting its significant improvement over previous Bethesda titles. Many reviewers, such as Gaming Nexus and Game Rant, commend the high-quality voice performances, particularly that of the fully voiced protagonist, which adds emotional depth and immersion to the game. Critics like Arcade Sushi and AusGamers note that the voice acting enhances the emotional connection players have with the story and companions, marking it as one of the best aspects of the series. Additionally, the extensive localization efforts, as pointed out by critics like LaPS4 and Hobby Consolas, contribute positively to the overall experience, making the game more accessible to a wider audience. However, the voice acting in Fallout 4 is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers, including Kill Screen and Everyeye.it, point out inconsistencies in performance quality, with some characters delivering subpar performances that detract from the overall experience. Critics like Vandal and Worth Playing have noted issues with repetitive lines and awkward animations that can disrupt immersion. The dialogue system has also faced scrutiny, with critics such as Eurogamer Poland and PC Gamer highlighting its vagueness and lack of depth, which can lead to a disjointed experience. The decision to fully voice the protagonist has been criticized by some, including Ragequit.gr and CGMagazine, for limiting player agency and character depth. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the voice acting in Fallout 4 represents a notable advancement for the franchise, it is marred by inconsistencies and a flawed dialogue system. Critics like PlayStation LifeStyle and USgamer acknowledge the enhancements in immersion and emotional engagement brought about by the voice performances, yet they also recognize that the game still has room for improvement. The mixed reviews indicate that while many aspects of the voice acting are commendable, the execution is uneven, leading to a varied reception among players and critics alike.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Fallout 4's technical performance is a mixed bag across platforms. PC users generally enjoy smoother gameplay, though bugs persist. Consoles, particularly PS4 and Xbox One, face severe criticisms for AI glitches, frame rate drops, and crashes. Despite some improvements over past Bethesda titles, persistent technical issues overshadow the gameplay experience, leading to a consensus that these flaws significantly mar the overall enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Fallout 4 varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with some positive aspects noted by critics. On the PC, several reviewers, including PCWorld and PCGamesN, highlighted that the game runs smoothly with good performance and stability, although minor bugs and UI issues are present. The PS4 version also has its merits, with critics like Everyeye.it noting that it runs smoothly with a stable frame rate, despite some occasional glitches. Similarly, the Xbox One version has been mentioned positively by Impulsegamer, who noted a sturdy control system contributing to a smooth gaming experience. Overall, while the game has its share of issues, there are also instances of enjoyable gameplay across all platforms. However, the negatives surrounding Fallout 4's technical performance are quite pronounced, particularly on the console versions. Critics such as Critical Hit and Giant Bomb reported significant technical issues on the PS4, including companion AI problems, bugs, crashes, and framerate drops that detract from gameplay and immersion. The Xbox One version is similarly criticized, with reviewers like DarkZero and The Daily Dot highlighting frame rate drops and various bugs that disrupt the experience. On PC, while the performance is generally better, critics like Washington Post and GameCritics pointed out that crashes and game-breaking bugs can still occur, necessitating frequent manual saves. The overall consensus among critics indicates that Fallout 4 suffers from a range of technical performance issues across all platforms, with consoles facing the brunt of the complaints. While some reviewers, such as Dealspwn and Gamestyle, noted improvements compared to previous Bethesda titles, the persistent bugs, glitches, and performance drops are a common theme in many reviews. Critics like Guardian and USgamer emphasized that these issues can detract from the overall experience, even if they are not universally game-breaking. Thus, while there are redeeming qualities in the game’s performance, the technical shortcomings are a significant drawback that many players will encounter.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Fallout 4 boasts strong replay value thanks to its vast open world, diverse quests, and deep character customization. Critics praise crafting and settlement mechanics that enhance gameplay, allowing for hundreds of hours of exploration. However, criticisms highlight a lack of meaningful choices and repetitive quests, dampening engagement in subsequent playthroughs. Despite these issues, most reviewers agree the game's extensive content and variety make it a compelling experience worth diving into.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Fallout 4 is predominantly positive, with many critics highlighting the game's expansive open world and the multitude of quests, factions, and character customization options available. Critics like Worth Playing and GameTrailers emphasize the extensive content and the freedom to explore, suggesting that players can engage with the game for hundreds of hours. The crafting and settlement building mechanics are also praised, with critics such as The Digital Fix and Vandal noting that these features add depth and flexibility to gameplay. Additionally, some reviewers, like Eurogamer Italy and GamingTrend, mention the potential for varied experiences through different character builds and faction choices, enhancing the replayability factor. However, there are notable criticisms that temper this overall enthusiasm. Several critics, including Kill Screen and Ragequit.gr, point out the lack of meaningful choices and consequences, which can make subsequent playthroughs feel less engaging. The repetitive nature of quests is another concern raised by critics like GameOver.gr and GamingTrend, who argue that while the game offers a vast world to explore, the quests can feel rigid and familiar, potentially diminishing long-term replay value. Furthermore, some reviewers, such as RPGamer and CGMagazine, express disappointment that the character development and quest complexity do not match the depth found in previous titles in the series. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of Fallout 4's replay value. While some reviewers highlight the limitations in meaningful choices and quest variety, the majority agree that the game's extensive world, rich content, and crafting systems provide ample opportunities for exploration and engagement. Critics like Impulsegamer and God is a Geek reinforce this sentiment by emphasizing the game's potential for varied gameplay experiences and the sheer volume of content available. Ultimately, while there are valid concerns regarding the repetitiveness and depth of choices, the overwhelming majority of critics believe that Fallout 4 offers significant replay value, making it a worthwhile experience for players.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Fallout 4 among critics reveals a mixed but generally positive reception, particularly in terms of gameplay experience and world design. Many reviewers, such as Gaming Nexus and MondoXbox, highlight the game's rich narrative and immersive open world, praising its engaging gameplay and character development. Critics like Game Revolution and Digital Spy commend the high production values and vast scope of the game, suggesting that it successfully modernizes the series while providing a compelling experience for both newcomers and long-time fans. The engaging exploration and environmental storytelling are frequently noted, with several critics mentioning that the game offers countless hours of entertainment, making it a worthwhile experience. However, the reviews also point out significant shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. Critics such as Ragequit.gr and Cheat Code Central express disappointment in the game's lack of depth and complexity compared to earlier entries in the series, labeling it as a regression in some areas. Technical issues, including bugs and outdated mechanics, are a common theme in the critiques, with reviewers like GameCritics and PCWorld noting that these flaws hinder the game's potential. Additionally, the narrative depth and character interactions are often described as lacking, with Kill Screen and Noisy Pixel emphasizing that the storytelling does not reach the heights of its predecessors. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Fallout 4 has its flaws, it remains a solid entry in the franchise with a lot to offer. Many reviewers, including PC Gamer and The Escapist, acknowledge the game's engaging world and enjoyable gameplay, despite its technical shortcomings and narrative issues. The game is often recommended for fans of the series and newcomers alike, with critics like AusGamers and Brash Games asserting that it is difficult not to recommend Fallout 4 due to its captivating nature and immersive experience. Ultimately, Fallout 4 stands as a testament to Bethesda's ability to create expansive worlds, even if it doesn't fully meet the expectations set by earlier titles in the series.

TL;DR

Fallout 4 garners a mixed but generally positive reception, praised for its immersive world and engaging gameplay, appealing to both new players and veterans. Critics highlight its rich narrative and exploration but note significant flaws, including bugs, technical issues, and shallow character depth compared to earlier games. Despite its shortcomings, the game is often recommended for its captivating experience and expansive world, showcasing Bethesda's strengths while falling short of the series' high standards.

MONSTER

Reviews

206 reviews found

100

Gamestyle

Xbox One

Dec 3, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer considers Fallout 4 their game of the year for 2015 and loves being in the world and discovering new things.

100

Hooked Gamers

Nov 9, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fallout 4 surpasses expectations and claims its rightful place in the series, leaving its competition trailing. It is a must-play for any fan of sandbox RPGs.

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100

Hardcore Gamer

Nov 9, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fallout 4 is described as a masterpiece and the best open world game of its time, deserving of a place in every gamer's library despite its technical flaws.

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100

AusGamers

Xbox One

Nov 9, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fallout 4 is a game that is impossible not to recommend.

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100

Gaming Age

Xbox One

Nov 9, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review is positive overall, stating that the game is a definitive entry point for newcomers and that the reviewer is enjoying every second in the wasteland.

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100

The Daily Dot

Xbox One

Nov 9, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fallout 4 is a triumphant return for the series, improving on its predecessors in nearly every aspect and providing a rich, immersive experience for both new and returning players.

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100

Impulsegamer

Xbox One

Nov 9, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fallout 4 is a massive and immersive RPG that successfully transports players into a post-apocalyptic world, offering a blend of engaging gameplay and character-driven storytelling.

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100

Gamer.no

Nov 13, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fallout 4 is described as a masterpiece with major improvements over Fallout 3, offering a fun and memorable sandbox experience.

100

Telegraph

PlayStation 4

Nov 9, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fallout 4 manages to exceed expectations with its storytelling, gameplay improvements, and engaging world design, standing out among other open-world games and delivering a fresh experience.

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100

Digital Spy

PlayStation 4

Nov 9, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A culmination of fantastic work, surpassing previous games in scope and scale

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