Fallout 1997 drops to $2.50 on Steam — the CRPG classic that started it all
The legendary role-playing game Fallout: A Post Nuclear Role Playing Game, released in 1997, is now available on Steam for just $2.50. It's one of the lowest prices in the project's history, and a perfect reason to explore the origin of a series that shaped the CRPG genre for decades.
The action takes place in California in 2161, decades after a nuclear war. The player begins in an underground Vault — one of the bunkers built to preserve the remnants of civilization. The story kicks off with a classic series catastrophe: the water chip breaks down, and the inhabitants face death from thirst. The replacement chip, of course, can only be found on the surface, teeming with mutants and raiders.
Even the first installment established the core mechanics familiar to modern fans. The S.P.E.C.I.A.L. system lets players distribute points across attributes — Strength, Perception, Intelligence, Charisma, and others — which define the playstyle. Fighting your way through isn't mandatory: dialogue, stealth, theft, and other skills open alternative paths to resolving conflicts.
The combat system is radically different from later entries in the series. When trouble starts, the game switches to turn-based mode, where movement and attacks consume action points. Players can target specific body parts — a direct precursor to the V.A.T.S. system known from modern Fallout games. Outside combat, the hero explores Vaults, ruined cities, settlements, and military facilities connected by a world map.
Nearly three decades later, the first Fallout still captivates with its dark humor, atmosphere, and freedom of choice. However, its age shows: players in reviews complain about a newcomer-unfriendly opening, dated interface, and problematic companion AI. Technical quirks and high difficulty harshly punish poorly planned character builds, and the lack of autosaves can send you hours back after an unfortunate death.
Despite the outdated technology, 94% of over 25,000 Steam reviews are positive. Metacritic lists a Metascore of 89 and a User Score of 8.7. For those who want to understand where the legend began, this is the perfect moment — the price is less than a cup of coffee.
