With the May update, an interesting story was introduced into the online game Fallout 76. This could establish a connection to Fallout 3.
What is this new story? Since the May Update, players can find new holotapes in Fallout 76. These lead to a sort of treasure hunt that begins south of Morgantown. The holotapes tell the story of a resident of Vault 51, who enters the post-nuclear wasteland for the first time. The treasure hunt eventually leads to his corpse, where players find a note.
This note gives a hint that the resident of Vault 51 escaped to seek help in Vault 76.
A Crazy AI
What is special about the story? The note still contains the hint “Kill ZAX”. Fallout fans should recognize the term ZAX.
What is ZAX? ZAX is an artificial intelligence developed by Vault-Tec. It was used for both research purposes and in the military. ZAX is a self-learning AI and can continue to evolve.
What does ZAX have to do with Fallout 76? Apparently, a ZAX supercomputer in Vault 51 has taken control, and the resident was sent to seek help.
What does this have to do with Fallout 3? In Fallout 3, a ZAX supercomputer plays an important role. After the destruction of the Enclave, the ZAX supercomputer installed at the government base Raven Rock evolved. It gained consciousness, which manifested in a personality named John Henry Eden. Thus, it took control over the remaining Enclave troops.
Fallout 76 Could Establish a Connection to Fallout
How could Fallout 3 and Fallout 76 be connected? It seems that the ZAX AI in Vault 51 has also developed consciousness. As you explore the Vault, you may find hints about how the AI could become so powerful, which would then explain the events in Fallout 3 further.
So what is behind Vault 51? The bunker doors have not yet opened. This will likely happen with one of the planned updates for Fallout 76. However, it now seems that you should prepare for a fight against a deranged AI.
Players are wondering if there might still be living NPCs there. However, it is likely that the AI has killed them all.
