Revamping Fallout 5's Music: Taking Cues from The Third Rail

Fallout 4's innovative approach to building upon the franchise's legacy is evident in its use of diegetic music, which adds depth to the game's immersive setting and characters. The inclusion of Diamond City Radio and its selection of iconic tunes from the early to mid-1900s serves as a pivotal element in players' exploration of the post-apocalyptic wasteland. However, the game's unique incorporation of a single female vocalist deviates from the norm and presents an intriguing opportunity for the developers of Fallout 5 to expand upon the series' musical conventions.

Fallout 5 Could Use a Similar Music Model as The Third Rail

The music in Fallout 4, particularly on Diamond City Radio, added an enjoyable element to the game's post-apocalyptic setting. The licensed songs, ranging from the 1930s to the 60s, featured iconic artists like Nat King Cole and The Ink Spots. Along with the ambient soundtrack by Inon Zur, the music made encounters with mutated creatures and raiders more exciting. However, the game's musical approach went further with The Third Rail, a swanky bar in the Goodneighbor settlement. The bar featured beer, Nuka Cola machines, and a talented singer named Magnolia, voiced by Lynda Carter. Magnolia's performances added a dynamic element to the game, as players explored and chatted with the bar's patrons. Her character's experiences were reflected in her lyrics, including references to Fallout 4's cap currency and Diamond City.

Carter's performance in Magnolia's songs adds an interesting layer to Fallout 4's music, showcasing the resilience of the wasteland's inhabitants despite their dire circumstances. The fact that Magnolia is a synth only adds to the irony of the situation. These songs, along with the rest of the game's music, contribute to the immersive atmosphere of the game's world, bringing to life the era and setting that inspired it. For Fallout 5, the game could expand on this approach by incorporating a wider range of music depending on the time period it emphasizes. The game's location could also play a role in informing the music, with lyrics that reference the surrounding areas and characters, similar to the approach taken in Magnolia's original tracks.

Fallout 4 is available now for the PC, PS4, and Xbox One.