Unearth the Undying: Why Fallout 5 Needs a Ghoul Protagonist

Highlights

Fallout 5 could set itself apart by featuring a ghoul protagonist, a first for the series, allowing players to experience the Fallout universe from a unique perspective.

Ghouls, previously human but mutated by radiation, possess unique characteristics including their distinctive looks and hoarse voices, making them a captivating option for a protagonist.

Assuming the role of a ghoul would offer innovative gameplay elements, involving clashes with the Brotherhood of Steel and exploiting immunity to radiation as a strategic advantage. As a result, Fallout 5 would present a revitalizing and unforgettable contribution to the series.

Fallout 5 could break new ground by featuring a ghoul as the protagonist, exploring territories untouched by previous games. While players have encountered ghouls in previous installments, the opportunity to actually play as one has never been presented. Ghouls, despite their similarities in abilities to humans, possess distinct characteristics that could lead to an unprecedented Fallout experience. Each Fallout game requires a unique standout feature, and Fallout 5 has the potential to make history by introducing the first playable ghoul.

In the Fallout universe, ghouls exhibit significant deviations from humans, despite their shared origins. These individuals have been exposed to excessive radiation, resulting in a disfigured, zombie-like appearance reminiscent of their former selves. While some ghouls have succumbed to feral instincts, transforming into animalistic monsters attacking everything in sight, many retain their original personalities. Alongside their altered physicality, ghouls often possess rough, raspy voices as a consequence of their radiation exposure. Unfortunately, even non-feral ghouls face suspicion and skepticism from certain factions, notably the Brotherhood of Steel, enduring an atmosphere of mistrust.

Fallout 5 May Be the Time For a Ghoul to Take Center Stage

Bethesda demonstrates its familiarity with heroic ghouls through notable companions like John Hancock from Fallout 4, Charon from Fallout 3, and Raul Tejada from New Vegas. In Fallout 3, an update allowed Charon to assume the role of savior for the Capital Wasteland by activating the water purifier. It would only make sense for the next evolution to feature a ghoul as the main character. The primary challenge may lie in character creation, as ghouls may offer fewer customization options compared to humans. Nonetheless, developers can devise innovative methods to ensure players can create a ghoul character to their satisfaction.

To replicate the compelling main story of Fallout 4, a narrative featuring a ghoul protagonist could delve into the past. Many ghouls have lived through the pre-apocalyptic era when the wastelands of Fallout were created. Consequently, their strong connections to the old world offer potential for an engaging storyline. The choices made during character creation by players could determine the protagonist's ties to the past, acting as a driving force for their adventure. They may embark on a quest to locate their former home, seek surviving family or friends, or even search for a precious relic long believed to be lost. Fallout 5 has the opportunity to vividly portray the stark contrast between the desolate wasteland and the protagonist's erstwhile familiar world.

Playing as a ghoul in Fallout 5 could introduce new gameplay elements. While the portrayal of the Brotherhood of Steel has varied throughout the series, players have generally been able to interact with them in a somewhat civil manner. However, the Brotherhood has always been hostile towards ghouls. If the protagonist of Fallout 5 were a ghoul, the Brotherhood could function similar to raiders, becoming enemies to be fought or avoided. Another interesting aspect could be the ghoul's immunity to radiation, allowing them to use highly irradiated areas as hiding places or sources of valuable items. Additionally, in Fallout 5, it could be possible for a ghoul to utilize heavy radiation to enhance their healing abilities.

Having a ghoul as the main character in Fallout 5 would be a significant departure from the previous games, but it could bring about positive changes. The Fallout series has always been known for its innovations, and having a ghoul protagonist could be the unique twist that sets this game apart. Throughout the years, the series has explored various types of stories, some more similar to each other than others. Approaching a Fallout game from the perspective of a ghoul is an uncharted territory that would add excitement and make the game's narrative truly unforgettable.