Fallout 3 was an important release for the franchise because it was the first installment in the series that was not turn-based. However, it implemented an iconic mechanic in gameplay that almost never existed.
What mechanic are we talking about? Fallout 3 by Bethesda was a milestone for the franchise in 2008. It transformed from the turn-based predecessors into a role-playing game that relied on active shooter or melee mechanics.
However, the turn-based origin is not completely gone. With the V.A.T.S. system, you could press a button to open a green interface that paused the combat. In the meantime, you could comfortably choose one of your opponent’s body parts and fire a shot that had a different likelihood of hitting depending on the distance and weapon.
The VATS system became an iconic mechanic that was also (with adjustments) implemented in the sequels. The lead artist of Fallout 3, Istvan Pely, revealed in an interview that the system was added just in time because they were unsure.
Fallout 76 also has a VATS system, but in the online title, it only works as aim assist:
Will anyone even use this?
What does Istvan Pely say about VATS? In an interview with Edge magazine (via GamesRadar), Pely spoke about the implementation of the system and the thoughts behind it. He explains that with Fallout 3, they had to prove that they could develop something other than fantasy RPGs. They previously released The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion.
An important point in development was how to translate character skills and stats into the ability to shoot. They questioned whether it would be frustrating if you missed when shooting. They developed the VATS system, but there were several issues, as Pely explained: For a long time, we asked ourselves: “Is this even fun? Is it worth doing this? Will anyone even use this?”
A major problem, according to Pely, was the camera positioning during the slow-motion effect. According to GamesRadar, Bethesda even developed its own algorithm for this. Pely explains that they took so long to finalize the VATS system that they only managed to implement it just before the end of production.
What do you think of the VATS system? Do you use it in the various Fallout games, or do you prefer to actively rely on your weapons and aiming accuracy? Currently, season 2 of Fallout is running on Amazon Prime. MeinMMO author Christoph Waldboth revealed how good the first 6 episodes are: I was able to watch 6 episodes of Fallout Season 2 and I have good news and bad news for you
