
In terms of gameplay, Obsidian has admittedly done little. The humor never becomes too overbearing, but when it appears, it never fails to raise at least a small smirk. From the varied and unforgettable antics of the schizophrenic Nightkin to the inspired Repconn Headquarters museum, Obsidian has used comedy with a skill that not even the original games managed.

It’s also rather hilarious at times, injecting a sense of humor and fun that was sorely lacking in Fallout 3. While newcomers will find plenty to love, this is most certainly a game developed with lifelong fans in mind. Familiar faces such as the New California Republic and the Followers of the Apocalypse make influential appearances, and the game is stuffed with nods to the original Fallout and its sequel. With Obsidian behind the steering wheel, no opportunity has been missed to infuse the Fallout 3 gameplay model with a flavor that is distinctly old school. New Vegas is better written, better paced and (most importantly) far more amusing than Fallout 3.

Somehow surviving, it’s The Courier’s job to track down Benny, get revenge, and embark on a quest that will see them judge the fate of New Vegas forever. The game opens with you, The Courier, at the mercy of a gangster called Benny (voiced with surprising subtlety by Matthew Perry) who has intercepted a delivery and shot you in the head. Fallout: New Vegas doesn’t waste time in throwing its players into the thick of things.
