- Fallout 1 was considered a real-time game, akin to Diablo.
- The decision was eventually scrapped.
- Lead Tim Cain hypothetically revealed how a real-time Fallout 1 could’ve been.
The Fallout franchise underwent significant changes before evolving into a third-person open-world RPG. Initially created by Tim Cain and developed by a small team at Interplay, the IP eventually found its way to Bethesda.
The first Fallout game was a turn-based RPG and a successor to the 1988 game Wasteland. Released in the same time frame as the original Diablo, its success inclined the studio to make Fallout 1 a real-time game, but eventually, it failed to do so.
Why it matters: Arguably one of the staple franchises in video game history, Fallout would’ve had a vastly different identity had it been a real-time game.
In his latest YouTube video, Tim Cain was asked what Fallout would’ve been like if it were a real-time title. The creator mentioned that developer Interplay approached him in 1996 and wanted Fallout to be a real-time game, similar to Diablo.
While Interplay was persistent in making Fallout 1 a real-time game, Cain was able to change their mind after revealing how much time and resources the project would require to pursue that path.
Tim Cain has expressed that he doesn’t believe Fallout would have worked well as a real-time game, even as a modern remake. However, he did hypothetically explore some ideas for such a version.
He said the potential game would have resembled Arcanum: Of Steamworks and Magick Obscura, which features real-time elements. However, diving deep into the actual gameplay, the entire system would have undergone a complete overhaul.
Cain would have dismantled action points completely, and attacks and agility points would have determined attack speed. Healing would occur over time, rather than instantly. Moreover, the bullet system would be a VATS-style system, and the entire perk system would have been redone.
On the flip side, Diablo was initially considered to be a turn-based game before eventually sticking to its identity as a real-time title. Fallout thrives as a turn-based game, and it’s great that Tim Cain stuck with his vision.
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[Staff Writer]
Shaheer is currently pursuing a Business degree while also working as a part-time Content Writer. With his deep passion for both writing and video games, he has seamlessly transitioned into a role as a Journalist. Over the past two years, Shaheer has contributed as a freelancer to various websites and landed positions on acclaimed platforms like Gamerant. Currently, his role at Tech4gamers is as a Features Writer, but he also covers News occasionally. Shaheer’s favorite gaming franchises are Assassin’s Creed and the God of War series.
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