Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel (Interplay, PC, MA15)

By PETER ELEY

(Herald rating: * * * * * )

Fallout and its quickly released sequel, Fallout 2, were two of the hot titles of 1997 — rich, immersive games for die-hard gamers.

The two titles created a setting where players could take on the role of individuals struggling to survive in a Mad Max-style post apocalyptic world have gained a lot of followers and Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel has been eagerly awaited.

Although it takes place in the Fallout universe, it is a squad-based tactical game rather than a straight role-player, using one of the Fallout factions, the Brotherhood of Steel, as its core.

Another departure is the mix of real-time and turn-based options, which can take some working out.

Fallout Tactics is subtitled, in the manner of Kubrick's Dr Strangelove, "How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb."

"You are the wretched refuse. You may be born from dirt, but we will forge you into steel.

"In these dark times, the Brotherhood is all that stands between the rekindled flame of civilisation and the howling, irradiated wasteland."

Whew, that's a heavy burden. And Fallout Tactics is a heavy game, ranging across more than a dozen post-apocalyptic environments, including mutant villages, industrial ruins and Brotherhood of Steel fortresses in 20 complex missions.

The game fills three CDs, and comprises about 50 controllable characters and enemies. Add in the 150-plus weapons, abilities, and attributes and you have a game with a steep learning curve.

Some of the special abilities on offer are simply outrageous.

How about Brown Noser — you get especially quick promotions — or Bonsai, where a small tree bearing life-giving fruit grows out of your head. Get afflicted by Bloody Mess and anyone who dies near you does so as unpleasantly as possible.

The graphics are good, especially the 3D cut-aways which let you see the action inside buildings.

Fallout Tactics is a well-designed and playable single player game, but Interplay says it is much more challenging in multiplayer mode where your squad members will be other players.

peter_eley@nzherald.co.nz