How to Start Fallout 76: A Beginner’s Guide
Fallout 76, the latest installment in the Fallout series, offers a unique blend of post-apocalyptic exploration, survival, and role-playing elements. Unlike its predecessors, Fallout 76 is an online multiplayer game, which means you’ll be sharing the world with other players. However, the game still retains the core elements that make the Fallout series so beloved. If you’re new to the series or just looking to dive into Fallout 76, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to get started.
1. Character Creation: Building Your Vault Dweller
When you first start Fallout 76, you’ll be taken through the character creation process. Here, you’ll customize your character’s appearance and allocate points to their S.P.E.C.I.A.L. stats. S.P.E.C.I.A.L. stands for Strength, Perception, Endurance, Charisma, Intelligence, Agility, and Luck. These stats will determine your character’s abilities and playstyle. For new players, it’s recommended to focus on Strength and Endurance, as these will help you carry more items and survive longer in the harsh environment.
2. Understanding the Basics: Gameplay Mechanics
Once you’ve created your character, you’ll find yourself in Vault 76, a underground bunker that serves as your starting point. The game will guide you through a brief tutorial that covers the basics of movement, combat, and inventory management. V.A.T.S. (Vault-Tec Assisted Targeting System) is a key feature in Fallout games, allowing you to target specific body parts of enemies in real-time combat. In Fallout 76, V.A.T.S. is slightly different, as it’s more of a targeting aid rather than a full pause-and-target system.
3. Exploring the World: Appalachia Awaits
After leaving Vault 76, you’ll be introduced to the vast open world of Appalachia, a post-apocalyptic West Virginia. The world is filled with quests, locations, and enemies to discover. The Main Quest will guide you through the story, but don’t be afraid to veer off the beaten path. Exploring is a huge part of the fun in Fallout 76, and you’ll often stumble upon hidden treasures and side quests.
4. Managing Resources: Survival is Key
In Fallout 76, managing your resources is crucial to survival. Food, water, and medical supplies are essential, as your character will need them to stay healthy. You can find these items by looting containers, defeating enemies, or crafting them at workbenches. CAMP (Construction and Assembly Mobile Platform) is a portable workbench that allows you to build and customize your own base. This is a great way to store your gear, craft items, and fast travel across the map.
5. Joining or Creating a Team: Multiplayer Fun
One of the unique aspects of Fallout 76 is its multiplayer component. You can join or create a team with up to three other players. Teaming up can make the game easier, as you can share resources, revive each other, and tackle tougher enemies together. However, if you prefer to play solo, that’s perfectly fine too. The game is designed to be enjoyable whether you’re playing alone or with friends.
6. Leveling Up and Progression: Becoming Stronger
As you complete quests, defeat enemies, and explore the world, you’ll earn experience points (XP) that will allow your character to level up. Each level gives you a point to allocate to your S.P.E.C.I.A.L. stats, as well as Perk Cards that provide additional abilities. Perk Cards can be equipped to give you bonuses in areas like combat, crafting, and survival. Be sure to experiment with different perk combinations to find a playstyle that suits you.
7. Engaging in Events: Dynamic World Activities
Fallout 76 features various public events that occur throughout the world. These events are open to all players in the same server and often involve completing specific objectives, such as defending a location or defeating a powerful enemy. Participating in these events can reward you with unique items, experience points, and caps (the game’s currency).
8. Trading and Economy: Bartering with Other Players
As you progress through the game, you’ll accumulate a variety of items that you may no longer need. Trading with other players is a great way to get rid of unwanted items and acquire gear that you need. Caps are the primary currency in Fallout 76, but you can also barter using other items. Just be sure to agree on a fair trade before finalizing any deals.
9. Staying Updated: Bethesda’s Ongoing Support