Fallout 4 Next-gen edition review

Rediscovering the Wasteland

When I first heard about the next-gen update for Fallout 4, I wasn't sure how much Bethesda could improve on a game I had already sunk hundreds of hours into. It had been years since I last revisited the post-apocalyptic Commonwealth, and the thought of enhanced visuals and smoother gameplay was enough to intrigue me. So, I dusted off my Pip-Boy and ventured once again into the wastelands, this time armed with the power of next-gen technology.

A Fresh Coat of Radiated Paint

The first thing that hits you upon launching Fallout 4’s next-gen edition is the visual upgrade. The Commonwealth has never looked this good. Running in 4K resolution, the details — both grand and minute — are breathtaking. Landscapes stretch out more vividly, character models are more nuanced, and textures feel even more a part of this desolate world.

Smoother Sailing

One of my main complaints about the original game was its inconsistent frame rates. However, in performance mode, Fallout 4 now hits a consistent 60 FPS target, making combat and exploration fluid and more enjoyable. The quality mode, while capped at 30 FPS, offers ultra settings that bring out the finer details if you're connected to a 120Hz display, 40 FPS is within your reach. This balance between performance and graphical fidelity ensures both new players and veterans will find a mode that suits their preferences.

New Content to Sink Your Teeth Into

The “Echoes of the Past” quest immediately captivated me. Initiated north of Saugus Ironworks, this addition to the story digs into the remnants of the Enclave — a faction that has always felt like a lurking danger within the Fallout universe. The narrative intertwines with memories and ruins from a forgotten past, adding a palpable tension as you try to prevent their resurgence.

An Arsenal of Destruction

Among the new toys at your disposal are the Enclave's iconic weapons and armors. I've always had a soft spot for power armor, and the X-02 and Hellfire suits now render in magnificent detail. The new Heavy Incinerator and Tesla Cannon are not just visually appealing but pack a significant punch, giving more heft to your wasteland exploits.

Creative Carnage

The Makeshift Weapon Pack is a delightful addition for those who enjoy unconventional weaponry. From the Nail Gun to the Baseball Launcher, each weapon comes with a distinctive style and feel. My personal favorite is the piggy bank-based weapon. It's utterly absurd in the best possible way, offering a fresh layer of creativity to your combat endeavors.

Halloween Haunts

The Halloween Workshop content is a spooky delight. Initiating the quest, "All Hallow's Eve," brings you to a beautifully eerie gala. It's more than just a visual spectacle; the array of Halloween-themed props and wearables, including the De-Capitalist helmet, provide ample customization options for your settlements should you wish to add some festive spirit to your constructions.

Technical Treats and Fixes

Bethesda hasn't just added content — they've ironed out many longstanding glitches and issues. From resolving the notorious Vault 111 door bug to fixing autosave problems during fast travel in power armor, the myriad tweaks have significantly enhanced the game's reliability and overall experience. Even minor annoyances, like misplaced quest markers and underwater movement issues, have been given due attention, showcasing a commitment to improving the player experience.

Enhanced Compatibility

Inclusivity is a pillar of this update, with improvements ensuring Japanese and Chinese users can connect seamlessly to Bethesda.net. The addition of widescreen and ultra-widescreen support, as well as Steam Deck verification, highlights a thoughtful approach to gamers’ diverse setups. Whether you're gaming on a standard monitor or a high-end ultra-widescreen, Fallout 4 now adapts fluidly to your hardware.

Epic Store Inclusion

For those who prefer varied digital storefronts, Fallout 4’s next-gen update is now available on the Epic Store. This inclusion broadens access and ensures more players can dive back into the Commonwealth through their preferred platform.

Free Creation Club Items

What sweetens the deal are the nine free Creation Club items included in this update. Highlights like the Enclave Weapon Skins and the new Halloween Workshop provide unique styles and additions without extra cost. It’s a thoughtful way to reward both new and returning players, further enriching the gameplay experience.

Settling Down with Improved Settlements

The settlement system has always been a gem in Fallout 4, allowing for significant creativity and customization. This update addresses previous bugs that caused resource miscounts or outright destroyed settlements. The newfound stability breathes fresh life into the mechanic, making settlement building more rewarding than ever.

Revamping the Early Game

One change that stood out was the improved reliability during the game’s prologue. The initial experience in Vault 111 now unfolds without a hitch. No longer having to worry about the vault door not opening or Codsworth being stuck makes for a smoother start to your wasteland adventure.

Console-Specific Enhancements

Console players will be relieved to know that unique issues have been addressed across both PlayStation and Xbox. From fixing the persistent Pip-Boy light on PlayStation to improving frame rates on Xbox when Molotov Cocktails trigger gas canisters, these tweaks make the game more enjoyable regardless of the console you’re playing on.

The Toolbox: Creation Kit Fixes

For the modding community, the updates to the Creation Kit are significant. By removing non-functional buttons and resolving crashes related to quest objectives and editor IDs, Bethesda has made the toolset more reliable and user-friendly, empowering modders to continue expanding the game’s horizons.

An Old Friend in a New Light

Coming back to Fallout 4 with this next-gen update felt like reconnecting with an old friend who’s undergone a remarkable transformation. With refined visuals, smoother gameplay, and a wealth of new content, it feels almost like a new game, wearing the familiar guise of a beloved classic.

Pros:

• Stunning 4K resolution and enhanced textures;
• Consistent 60 FPS performance mode;
• Engaging new quests like "Echoes of the Past";
• Diverse and creative new weapons;
• Ample Halloween-themed customization options;
• Numerous bug fixes improving overall stability;
• Enhanced inclusivity for Japanese and Chinese players;
• Widescreen and ultra-widescreen support;
• Free Creation Club content adds value;
• Improved settlement system reliability;
• Console-specific issue resolutions make gameplay smoother.

Cons:

• Quality mode is limited to 30 FPS without a 120Hz display;
• Some areas and characters still feel dated despite updates.

Wrapping Up

The next-gen update of Fallout 4 rekindles the magic of exploring the Commonwealth, making it more immersive than ever before. With refurbished visuals, a smoother experience, and meaningful new content, Bethesda has not only revived an aging gem but polished it to a near-perfect sheen. For anyone who has ever wanted to delve back into Fallout 4 or is discovering it for the first time, this update is the perfect excuse to do so.