Bethesda Softworks went into more detail when it comes toFallout 76’s S.P.E.C.I.A.L. system as well as how perks will work in this online multiplayer. While those who have played previous Fallout games will be familiar with the system, there are some new features and the way they work. The developers shared gameplay and explanations of how they would work in multiplayer and as a solo player.
Fallout 76 S.P.E.C.I.A.L. System and Perks
While the S.P.E.C.I.A.L. system is not a new idea to theFalloutuniverse, Bethesda share the card system that will represent different perks within each category. The panel also shared gameplay footage of creating character ID badges in photo mode when players go through character creation.
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. System
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. stands for Strength, Perception, Endurance, Charisma, Intelligence, Agility and Luck, these are the different categories players will choose from in order to spend their skill points. Perks will become available depending on which categories you spend points into, and are represented by cards that you collect from leveling. The S.P.E.C.I.A.L. system has a level cap of 15 points per category allowing for better balance of perks. Cards will range from 1-5 points in terms of power, the more you level up the more cards that become available.
Perk Packs
Perk packs are available every two levels from levels 1-10 and then every five levels onward. Each pack will contain random perks that can come from any category, this way players can have access to cards they would not usually because of their build. The developers want to add a sense of flexibility to the game, allowing you to experiment with different builds. With hundreds of cards available, there are many ways to play. They also come with a joke and stick of gum that will help deter hunger temporarily.
Playing Solo and in a Team
The developers share the example that with a solo build, they may equip a certain perk such as Lone Wanderer as it will help with experience and damage. But when in a team, will swap it out for a perk that is more beneficial for the group such as being able to carry extra ammo.
The developers touch upon how Charisma will work in an online game, where in the past this category has been mostly for NPCs in previous Fallout games, it has it’s own role to play in Fallout 76. Charisma cards can be collected by one team mate, but also can be shared amongst the group. You can still collect cards as a solo player but will be more beneficial for someone who concentrates on the Charisma category.
Progression
Bethesda share that the progression will be similar to that of the usual RPG games in terms of leveling. However, as you progress you may find yourself swapping out perks here and there because of discovery due to the pack system.
The multiplayer online plays a role in the overall progression of the game as once you reach level 50, you will no longer be able to assign points but will still be able to choose cards. While in other Bethesda games such as Skyrim or Fallout 4 where you character continues to grow more powerful as they level, Fallout 76 will cap their power level curve. You will still have the option to try different perks from then on as the choices are numerous.
Bethesda showed a short trailer featuring mutation, this feature is triggered when a player is exposed to too much radiation. The developers explain that these mutations can give players interesting abilities, but they come with stats hindrances depending on the type of mutation.
You can check out the full panel below:
Fallout 76will release for PS4, Xbox One, and PC on November 14th, 2018 while B.E.T.A will launch in October 2018. Pre-orders are already available via Amazon, those whopre-order will have access to the B.E.T.A..
If you enjoyed reading aboutFallout 76be sure to read more in about the QuakeCon 2018 reveals inFallout 76 Reveals More Details About PvP, Death Penalty, Private Servers And More. You also might be interested to check out our article about theThe Pitfalls Of PvP Balancing In Fallout 76.
