Atomfallis often referred to as being a British version ofFallout, and understandably so. It definitely feels like there’s some influence taken fromFallout, but the world and gameplay have a fair number of differences when you look at both games. However, I find myself being reminded of a different game when I try to find a way out of the regions inAtomfallto reach one of its multiple endings.
While the start ofAtomfallfeels like thebeginning of aFalloutgame, much of the actual exploration feels more similar toSTALKER. A significant factor is how lush the areas are inAtomfallas opposed to the more barren landscapes ofFallout.The best part is thatAtomfallis a relatively short game, meaningyou can play through it quite quickly, then compare it to similar games yourself to see if you find it more similar to one or the other, or perhaps see it as a unique blend that makes it stick out.
Atomfall Explores An Alternative Version Of History
The Concept Isn’t Uncommon
Exploring an alternative version of history isn’t uncommon in gaming, and it can be fun to see what could’ve happened brought to life in a way that you can experience in a virtual world. Set in the 1960s, you’re put in the role of an amnesiac who wakes up in anarea that’s been quarantined as the result of a nuclear disastercalled the Windscale incident. From there, your goal sounds simple enough. You want to find a way out.
Atomfall May Not Be As Similar To Fallout As You Think, And That’s A Good Thing
Atomfall and Fallout share many similarities, but they’re very different games once you look past the superficial. Fortunately, that’s a good thing.
Of course, that’s easier said than done. You’ll encounter NPCs around the quarantined areas, but not all of them are willing to help you. Instead, many of them will try to kill you. This element makesAtomfallresembleFalloutandSTALKER, as you don’t always know who’s your friend and who’s your enemy at a glance. However, you’ll also meetNPCs who can help you escapefrom this zone, opening up multiple endings that you have the chance to get.
It Resembles Some Fallout Elements
But Includes Multiple Differences
While some parts ofAtomfallfeel similar toFallout, I don’t think it’s fair to the game to just describe it as BritishFallout.Atomfallfeels like its own game, showingdifferences from what you expect inFalloutgames.
The RPG elements are quite different, andAtomfallleans more toward survival crafting than a straight RPG
The RPG elements are quite different, andAtomfallleans more toward survival crafting than a straight RPG. Instead, the biggest similarities seem to be that both games took place after a nuclear disaster. The government built bunkers without explaining their purpose, but the groups inFalloutmade the existence of those bunkers known.
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Additionally, the enemy types can be seen as somewhat similar. For human characters, you have some standard NPCs to trade with or get quests from, then you have outlaws who tend to be immediately hostile towards you. Then, you have inhuman enemies, the most threatening of which are the Ferals, somewhat similar to the Ghouls ofFallout. However, unlike the Ghouls, Ferals aren’t necessarily the byproduct of exposure to nuclear radiation. Instead,they have more plant-based origins, and you often find them entangled in glowing plants, like vines and mushrooms.
Atomfall Feels More Like STALKER
Learning The Secrets Of A Disaster
As I playedAtomfall, I definitely had the feeling that it resemblesSTALKERmore thanFallout, even though you’re able to beat it in far less time than both of those titles.The lush environments and overall air of mystery you feel while exploring add to that resemblance, but it’s not as difficult, especially since you can choose which difficulty you want to play on inAtomfall, allowing you to tailor the experience to your needs. However, you understand why you’re stuck in the quarantine zone more inSTALKERthan inAtomfall, since the opening has you entering the zone.
Ultimately,Atomfallis an excellent example of why it’s difficult to label one game as a clone of another game, especially when the first game is beloved by a large audience. Doing so led to quite a bit of disappointment, ifAtomfall’s Steam reviews are to be considered, because players went into it expecting aFalloutclone, and that’s not what the experience ended up being. Whether it feels more likeFallout,STALKER, or another game entirely, it’s best to let games shine independently of other games, just like withAtomfall.
Atomfall
Set in an alternate 1960s Britain,Atomfallimmerses players in a post-nuclear disaster landscape following the Windscale incident. As an amnesiac protagonist, players navigate the quarantined Lake District, confronting mutated creatures, cultists, and rogue agents.
