Bethesda Game Studios has launched dozens of updates for Fallout 76 over the past six years. However, all updates have been limited to the old open world, which was starting to become monotonous. The latest update; Skyline Valley, is a pleasant break from the norm, as it expands the open world and introduces several exciting new features.
Fallout 76: Skyline Valley is still new. Many players haven’t tried it yet, and many of those who have played it are still trying to make sense of the new changes. Here is a comprehensive review of everything we know about the game to get you up to date.
What is Fallout 76: Skyline Valley?
Fallout 76: Skyline Valley is the latest major update for the Fallout 76 game, originally released in 2018. This update brings significant changes to the original game and introduces several new features. The most notable addition is the expansion of the open world with a new region called Skyline Valley, located in the heart of Shenandoah. Another key feature is the introduction of a new type of ghoul known as ‘The Lost.'
Story
Fallout 76: Skyline Valley is based on an intriguing plot that expands the concept and weaves into the main story. Shenandoah Valley is engulfed in a strange storm, and its epicenter is directly above Vault 63. Interestingly, a strange new race of ghouls called The Lost Engineers, or simply The Lost, take shelter in Vault 63. They include brilliant scientific minds working on developing and testing new technologies and weapons.
The ghouls’ leader, called Hugo, seems welcoming and cooperative. However, most of the other ghouls aren’t happy to see you. This contrast makes you suspicious, as Hugo seems to be putting on an act to get something from you. As such, you must decide whether to befriend or betray him, depending on how the story unfolds.
Hugo is hard to read, and you must progress through the levels to uncover his secrets. You will try to find out where The Lost comes from, what they are working on, their end plans, and why they are so mad. Notably, the ghouls’ scientific projects could be behind the looming ecological storm causing the formation of strange clouds.
Gameplay
Fallout 76: Skyline Valley follows the original's gameplay. You explore an unusual post-apocalyptic landscape, create outposts, embark on quests, and follow the main story while fighting ghouls and other frightening monsters. This new game adds an interesting feature: online co-op to combat robots in an arena.
Action is the biggest aspect of Fallout 76: Skyline Valley’s gameplay style. Notably, the ghouls in this new game are smarter and wield deadly weapons, including guns and electric batons, making them more formidable. Moreover, you can also come under attack from robots, dangerous wildlife, and hostile inhabitants when exploring a new region. Fortunately, you are well-equipped to handle any threat you encounter.
A big part of Fallout 76: Skyline Valley's gameplay style includes exploration. There are many interesting sights to view in the new area, including survival supplies and hints to help you piece together the plot. Notwithstanding the foreboding mood and the wartime ruins, the exquisitely designed settings provide an aesthetically breathtaking experience.
The story unfolds brilliantly in the immersive main campaign. 12 quests and 20 new sights are available. The tasks are difficult but rewarded with loot and useful items. Interesting, you may start at level 20 to get to the good stuff. You must be level 25 to start the Vault 63 questline with the new ghouls. Before level 25, you can explore Skyline Valley, but the quest is sealed.
Along with fighting and solving the mystery, you can establish outposts in the new zone to retake the outside. Interestingly, the creators will issue an Autumn update to reward quest accomplishment with caravan stations.
It is worth noting that besides the expansion of the open world, the developers have another major change planned for 2025. Players will be able to play as ghouls and experience their advantages and disadvantages.
Development
Fallout 76: Skyline Valley is developed by Bethesda Game Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks. This major update marks a significant evolution of the game, originally released in 2018. The developers first teased the new update in December 2023, sparking excitement among fans. Notably, director Jonathan Rush visited Skyline Drive to gather inspiration and learn more about the region, ensuring an authentic and immersive experience.
Skyline Valley introduces a new region located in the heart of Shenandoah, expanding the game's open world and providing fresh environments to explore. Additionally, this update features a new type of ghoul known as ‘The Lost,' adding more depth and challenge to the gameplay.
Bethesda Game Studios is known for its dedication to continuous improvement, and more updates for Fallout 76 are expected in the future. This commitment to ongoing development ensures that players will have new content and experiences to look forward to, keeping the game engaging and dynamic.
Trailer
Fallout 76 - Skyline Valley Launch Trailer | PS5 & PS4 Games
The official trailer for Fallout 76: Skyline Valley is quite creative and not just scenes farmed out of the game. It plays out like some sort of marketing presentation urging people to move to Vault 76. However, the marketing presentation is more of a brief narration of the game’s story, as the presenter tries to describe what life is like in the region. Interestingly, the narrator’s tone and choice of words are sarcastic, considering the threat looming over Skyline Valley.
At one point, the presenter talks to someone from Skyline Valley, leading to a cutaway scene of the new region. The region appears ominous, with a foggy atmosphere, lightning strikes, and strange dark clouds hovering above. The presenter also introduces Vault 63, located a short distance from Vault 76, and showcases the new race of ghouls living there. These new ghouls appear more sophisticated and wield impressive weapons. Other notable scenes in the trailer cover the game’s environments and wildlife.
Release Date, Platforms & Editions
Fallout 76: Skyline Valley launched on 12th June 2024. Interestingly, it is one of many other updates to the original Fallout 76 game, and it won’t be the last. It is available on three platforms, including PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.
So, what’s your take on our preview of Fallout 76: Skyline Valley? Let us know over our socials here or down in the comments below.
