Fallout 4 VR

Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Release: Dec 11th 2017
Platforms:
RPG
Immersive
Expansive
Moddable
Buggy
Unpolished
Fallout 4 VR Poster

" Immersive VR RPG with detailed exploration and crafting, but technical issues disrupt gameplay "

Fallout 4 VR Review

Fallout 4 VR is an ambitious adaptation of Bethesda's acclaimed open-world RPG into virtual reality, offering players a fresh, immersive perspective on the expansive Commonwealth wasteland. The VR experience enhances core gameplay elements such as exploration, combat, and crafting by making interactions more tactile and engaging. Players appreciate the intense gunplay, hands-on settlement building, and the visceral sense of presence that VR brings to the post-apocalyptic world. However, the game suffers from technical limitations inherited from the original, including bugs, performance issues, and clunky controls that can hinder immersion. The user interface and locomotion options feel awkward or uncomfortable for some, and the lack of official DLC integration requires reliance on mods for a complete experience. Additionally, the demanding hardware requirements and steep learning curve limit accessibility. Despite these flaws, Fallout 4 VR remains a rewarding experience for fans willing to invest time in modding and adapting to VR gameplay.

Ultimately, while not flawless, it successfully captures the spirit of the original game and offers a unique, immersive journey into a beloved RPG world, especially for dedicated Fallout or VR enthusiasts.

Highlights

Players praise Fallout 4 VR for its highly immersive gameplay, particularly the enhanced gunplay and tactile combat mechanics that feel more intense in VR. The vast, detailed Commonwealth environment is appreciated for exploration, with the VR perspective adding depth and realism. Crafting and settlement building translate well into VR, allowing for physical manipulation of objects. The rich storyline and expansive quest content from the original game remain engaging, providing motivation to explore and interact with the world. Modding support is highlighted as a key factor in improving the overall experience and adding missing content, such as DLC.

The game’s ability to make players feel truly present in the post-apocalyptic setting is a standout feature, creating a fresh way to experience a familiar RPG.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the game's technical shortcomings, including frequent bugs, performance drops, and long load times that disrupt immersion. The VR port lacks official DLC content, forcing players to rely heavily on mods, which can be difficult to install and manage. Controls and locomotion options are often described as clunky or unintuitive, leading to frustration and occasional motion sickness. The user interface feels awkward in VR, making menu navigation cumbersome. Additionally, the high hardware requirements and steep learning curve make the game less accessible to newcomers. Some players also note that the game feels like a rushed port, with insufficient polish and optimization, detracting from the overall experience.

Pros

  • Immersive VR gunplay and combat mechanics enhance player engagement and tension.
  • Expansive, detailed Commonwealth environment offers rewarding exploration opportunities.
  • Crafting and settlement building feel tactile and creative in virtual reality.
  • Rich storyline and quest content retain the depth of the original RPG.
  • Mod support significantly improves gameplay and adds missing DLC content.
  • Physical interaction with the world increases immersion and player agency.
  • The VR perspective adds a fresh, visceral dimension to a beloved game.

Cons

  • Technical issues such as bugs and performance drops disrupt immersion frequently.
  • Lack of official DLC integration forces reliance on complex mod installations.
  • Clunky and unintuitive controls create frustration and hinder gameplay flow.
  • Locomotion options cause discomfort or motion sickness for some players.
  • User interface is awkward and cumbersome in the VR environment.
  • High hardware requirements limit accessibility to players with powerful PCs.
  • Steep learning curve makes it difficult for VR newcomers to adapt.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Fallout 4, the legendary post-apocalyptic adventure from Bethesda Game Studios and winner of more than 200 ‘Best Of’ awards, including the DICE and BAFTA Game of the Year, comes in its entirety to VR.

Release Date Dec 11th 2017
Publisher Bethesda Softworks
Developer Bethesda Game Studios
Required Age 17+
Platforms

User Reviews

Mixed (4,335)
61% Positive 39% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
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