Overview
Fallout 76 is an online role-playing game set in the post-apocalyptic world of the popular Fallout franchise, which has gotten a new wave of attention thanks to the hit Prime Video series. Players start as survivors leaving an underground vault 25 years after a nuclear war. They then explore what’s left of West Virginia, now a wasteland full of mutated creatures, raiders, and other dangers. Players scavenge for supplies, build their own base, complete quests, and fight to survive, either solo or with other players online.
The game had a famously rough launch in 2018, but years of free updates have turned it into one of the franchise’s most-played titles. So should your child play it? Between the graphic violence and the online features, there’s a lot here parents should know.
Harmful Content ❗️
The biggest concern beyond the game’s content is that Fallout 76 is played online with strangers. Every other person in the game world is a real player, and voice chat lets kids hear and talk to people they don’t know. Players can also attack each other in some situations, which can lead to griefing or harassment.
The game also pushes in-game spending. Players can buy Atoms (a digital currency) to spend in the Atomic Shop on outfits, base decorations, and other extras. There’s also a paid monthly membership called Fallout 1st that gives players perks like extra storage and private servers. Be sure parental controls are set up to block unapproved purchases.
The game includes frequent references to drugs, called “Chems,” which players can find, craft, and use to boost their character’s abilities. Alcohol shows up too, including quests where players gather ingredients to make drinks.
Language
The game’s characters use strong language, including “f**k” and “sh*t.” Voice chat with other players is likely to include profanity and other inappropriate language as well.
Sex
There’s no nudity or sexual content in the game. However, some dialogue includes suggestive jokes and innuendo.
Violence
Violence is central to the game, and it’s much more graphic than games like Fortnite or Apex Legends. Players use guns, explosives, and melee weapons like machetes to fight mutants, monsters, and human enemies. Some weapons blow enemies apart, leaving behind limbs and chunks of flesh. Enemies can even be killed with headshots that result in decapitation. Some creatures and locations also lean into horror, which may be frightening for younger players.
Positive Value 💫
Fallout 76 rewards teamwork, planning, and creativity. Players have to manage resources, craft gear, and work together to take on tough events, which builds problem-solving and cooperation skills. Building a home base (called a C.A.M.P.) also gives players a creative outlet, similar to games like Minecraft.
The game’s world is also a satirical take on 1950s American culture and Cold War nuclear fears. For older teens, this can open up interesting conversations about history and the real-world consequences of war. However, given the level of mature content, it’s likely best to find these positives in another, more age-appropriate game.
So, should my kid play it?
For most kids, no. The graphic violence, drug references, and online interaction with strangers make Fallout 76 best for players 17 and up, in line with its ESRB rating.
