In a recent interview, Todd Howard, the visionary behind the Fallout franchise, shared his favorite moment from the critically acclaimed Fallout television series currently captivating audiences on Amazon Prime Video. Howard, a renowned figure in the gaming industry, expressed his enduring fondness for the iconic transition from the confines of the Vault to the uncharted territories of the post-apocalyptic wasteland.
Describing this transition as an “earned moment,” Howard emphasized its significance in the Fallout experience. The act of rolling back the massive vault door and stepping into the unknown has become an emblematic element of the franchise, dating back to the inaugural game’s release. It’s a moment that encapsulates the essence of Fallout, akin to the enduring legacy of Ron Perlman’s iconic narration, “War, war never changes” (though Walton Goggins had the honor of uttering it in the television adaptation).
However, for Howard, this storytelling element transcends the Fallout series. He views it as a “step out” moment, a staple of Bethesda’s role-playing games. In 2021, while discussing the then-unreleased Starfield, Howard elaborated on this concept: “We always have that ‘step out’ moment into the world, so to say.” He further explained that technological advancements and the evolving expectations of gamers have influenced this aspect of their game design. “Us being able to do that and have it feel new every generation, every game, is something that is really special about what we do.”
Among Bethesda’s “step out” moments, Howard holds a particular fondness for exiting the sewers in Oblivion. The atmospheric combination of darkness and tranquility during his initial escape left an unforgettable impression, reinforcing the sense of breaking free and embarking into the unknown. Fallout 3 also holds a special place in his heart, as it marked his first encounter with the Fallout world from this perspective. The gradual adjustment of his eyes to the blinding light, revealing the devastated landscape, created an impactful and immersive experience.
Howard’s enthusiasm for the Amazon series stems from its authenticity and adherence to the established lore of Fallout. He believes it represents a “new entry” in the franchise, providing an opportunity for both long-time fans and newcomers to engage with the captivating world of Fallout. The successful translation of the game’s essence into a television format has solidified its place among the top-rated shows on Prime Video, with a second season already in the works.
In Howard’s view, the Fallout universe stands apart from other post-apocalyptic entertainment due to its unique blend of drama, suspense, fear, action, comedy, and violence. He commends the show’s creators for skillfully weaving these elements together, resulting in an exceptional adaptation that remains faithful to the spirit of Fallout.
