Is it worth playing Fallout: New Vegas before diving into Season 2 of Fallout?

With the buzz surrounding Fallout season 2, you might find yourself glancing at your copy of Obsidian’s classic RPG, Fallout: New Vegas, and pondering whether it’s worth diving back into the Strip before you embark on another journey through the wasteland on Prime Video.

If you haven’t yet explored Fallout: New Vegas, you might be wondering if skipping the 2010 title means missing out on crucial context for the new season.

To help you decide, we’ve crafted a quick guide on whether you should play Fallout: New Vegas before watching Fallout season 2. We’ve included insights from key figures involved in the series, but don’t worry—we’re steering clear of spoilers. Just a heads-up: there may be some details you’d prefer to discover on your own. While you wait, you can check out our review of Fallout season 2 and a preview of its release schedule.

In short, you don’t need to play New Vegas. Although it serves as a backdrop for the new season, the events unfold over 15 years after the game’s conclusion. Consequently, many factions, locations, and significant events won’t have a direct connection to the series.

Co-showrunner Geneva Robertson-Dworet emphasized this point, clarifying that no specific ending from Fallout: New Vegas will be considered canon in Fallout season 2.

“Instead, 15 years have gone by, and Vegas is not exactly as you remember it. In the wasteland, things are always changing—warring factions are constantly vying for control. So, over 15 years, some things will feel familiar, but others will have transformed,” Robertson-Dworet explained.

Todd Howard, on the other hand, expressed a more player-centric view, suggesting that while the journey of players is honored, the series will also “start fresh.”

Veterans of Fallout: New Vegas will likely find their experience enhances the second season. Mr. House, portrayed by Justin Theroux, was a significant character in the game and makes a return in the new season. This familiarity with the area’s history and its political landscape could give seasoned players an edge as they navigate the complex dynamics of New Vegas.

However, it’s worth noting that Fallout season 1 is far more critical than Fallout: New Vegas. If you’re looking to invest your time over the holidays, rewatching the first season might be the way to go. Fortunately, the problematic AI-generated recap of Fallout season 1 has been taken down, so you won’t be tempted to skip any essential details.

If you can carve out a few hundred hours, we wholeheartedly recommend diving into Fallout: New Vegas. It’s celebrated as one of the best entries in the series for a reason, offering an exceptional, choice-driven experience that blends Fallout’s chaotic gameplay with Obsidian’s knack for quirky characters and unforgettable moments.

For more insights, be sure to explore the complete Fallout season 2 timeline.