Fallout's gunplay 'terrible,' says ex-call of duty dev – and he wants in
The post-apocalyptic landscapes of Fallout have captivated players for years, but a veteran game developer is leveling a blunt critique: the shooting mechanics are, to put it mildly, lacking. Greg Reisdorf, a former multiplayer director for several Call of Duty titles, didn’t mince words in a recent interview, calling Fallout’s gunplay “terrible” and outlining a host of technical issues that plague the experience, particularly in first-person view.
A veteran's perspective on bethesda's combat
Reisdorf’s assessment, shared with Hellcase, isn’t simply a matter of preference; it’s rooted in a deep understanding of shooter mechanics. He points to stiff animations, a rudimentary engine, and what he describes as a lack of dynamism in the aiming-down-sights (ADS) system. “God. It’s terrible right now,” he stated. “There’s a whole bunch of issues with the animations. Their engine is really rough, especially in first person.” The observation that the same models are reportedly used for both first and third-person perspectives adds another layer of complexity to the criticism.
While Fallout isn't strictly a shooter in the vein of Call of Duty—it’s a sprawling RPG where weaponry serves as a means of exploration, scavenging, and survival—Reisdorf argues that even a baseline level of competency in gunplay should be expected. The improvements between Fallout 3 and Fallout 4 are notable, but according to Reisdorf, there's still a significant gap to close.
An unsolicited – and immediate – offer to todd howard
What makes Reisdorf’s critique particularly compelling is the offer that followed. The developer, seemingly serious, extended an immediate invitation to Bethesda’s Todd Howard to enlist his expertise. “I’ll be there tomorrow, Todd,” he declared, a statement that speaks volumes about his conviction and eagerness to improve the Fallout experience. Bethesda is currently focused on The Elder Scrolls VI, pushing any potential Fallout 5 release well into the 2030s, but the offer remains a fascinating glimpse into industry perspectives on game development.
Interestingly, Reisdorf also suggests that a remaster of Fallout 3 could benefit greatly from a combat overhaul, further highlighting the enduring legacy of issues within the franchise's gunplay systems. It’s a reminder that even the most beloved RPGs can benefit from a critical eye and a dedication to refining core mechanics, especially when those mechanics impact the player's engagement with the world.
Ultimately, Reisdorf’s candid assessment and bold offer serve as a potent reminder: even in the sprawling, lore-rich universe of Fallout, the fundamentals of enjoyable gunplay remain paramount.