Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel

Review

by Brad Mills

Fans of the first two Fallout role-playing games will be at home with the sequel, and it may be enough to turn hordes of RPG fans into tactical strategy proponents as well. Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel not only has the same feel, plot, and memorable Brotherhood gang, it also uses the same combat system (albeit with some minor changes) and character statistics. All of this should appeal to series veterans and, with less talking and more fighting, could well attract new players, too.

The game is very similar to the classic tactical squad-based X-COM titles by MicroProse and will most likely appeal to fans who enjoyed those games. The missions are basic "hunt down all the bad guys" or "rescue this item or that person." The overall goal is to learn new information about the enemies or perhaps gain more advanced technology to help in subsequent missions. Be prepared to spend a few hours with each mission, though, as they increase in length as the game wears on. Wear is not an understatement as the missions at times have a tendency to drag on for much too long and will try the patience of even the most ardent RPG converts.

One of the most innovative features of the game is the ability to play three entirely different styles. Two are turn-based modes and one real-time, though most people will likely acclimate to one and stick with it. For a faster paced style of game, real-time should be the mode of choice, while more patient gamers interested in detail and control will opt for one of the two turn-based modes (squad and individual). Of those, squad proves to be quite a bit faster and more effective and, although individual mode allows the most control, the already insanely long missions will discourage its usage.

Character development stands out in the game with your ability to outfit squad members with nearly 100 specialty traits. The wide range of extra characteristics allow for some unique gameplay and very dynamic team building and puts a premium on earning extra skill points for your team, an essential prerequisite to success found in most role-playing games. Overall, Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel is a tour-de-force for fans of both the genre and series, especially if you're able to handle the gigantic scope of the missions.