Fallout 5 Needs to Elevate a Top Faction from New Vegas

With the release of Fallout 5 seemingly far in the future, fans have plenty of time to let their imaginations run wild about which factions might make a return from earlier installments like Fallout: New Vegas. Across the series, factions have been central to building the rich lore of this post-apocalyptic world. Groups like the technology-obsessed Brotherhood of Steel have become iconic, and in Fallout: New Vegas, the entire plot pivots on which faction the player’s character—the Courier—chooses to support.

Not all factions get the limelight like the Brotherhood of Steel. The wasteland has been home to numerous smaller groups, showcasing the myriad ways in which humanity has coped in catastrophic times. Some factions have resorted to brutal violence; others have turned to peaceful education. Then there’s that one memorable mob that stumbled upon an impressive stockpile of explosive goodies.

Speaking of unforgettable factions, it’s hard to discuss New Vegas without mentioning the Boomers. This minor faction sure left an impression due to their fascination with pre-war arsenal. Emerging from Vault 34 with an enviable collection of weapons, they set up shop at Nellis Air Force Base. Firm believers that their surroundings were hostile, they fortified their new home, welcoming any strangers with an enthusiastic artillery barrage.

Anyone venturing into Boomer territory quickly recognizes the danger. As players approach Nellis, shells come crashing down in a relentless storm. Getting through unscathed becomes a test of player reflexes and maybe a bit of luck. Surviving this barrage allows players to meet the Boomers, who, despite their explosive greeting, turn out to be oddly friendly and open to dialogue. Others aren’t so fortunate, with their remains serving as a caution for future adventurers.

This isolationist stance makes the Boomers stand out in New Vegas’ lineup of factions. Fallout often presents life and death as straightforward choices, and raiders usually prefer action over talking. Yet, this isn’t the case with the Boomers.

Looking ahead to Fallout 5, taking inspiration from a group like the Boomers could be intriguing. Imagine a faction that only allows entry to those who can dash through danger—it’s a concept full of possibilities. While the same scenario shouldn’t be recycled, introducing fresh challenges that test players’ skills in new ways would be a great addition.

Possibly, gaining access could rely on unique attributes or abilities. If a player fails to navigate an obstacle quickly, they might lose the chance to join certain groups permanently. Picture a scenario where a tunnel collapses if players aren’t fast enough, blocking entry forever. This sort of decision-making encourages players to carefully consider their skill investments, creating memorable outcomes.

The thrill of racing against time captivates because it’s not easily sidestepped. Combat can be influenced by gear and difficulty settings, while patience can solve lockpicking challenges. But an obstacle course? That requires raw skill and timing. Bethesda games don’t usually emphasize movement mechanics, making this a fresh challenge unless, of course, you’re a skooma-powered Khajiit dashing through Skyrim, which, let’s be honest, isn’t a likely feature in Fallout’s universe.