Imagine a world that looks like it’s stuck in the 1950s, where everything runs on nuclear power, and people hide in underground Vaults to survive a nuclear war. That’s the world of Fallout — a popular video game series filled with mystery, danger, and rich stories.
To truly enjoy the games and understand the world, it helps to know the full Fallout timeline. This timeline tells the story of how the world was built, what led to the bombs dropping, and what happens after the dust settles.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, this article will walk you through the entire Fallout timeline in a fun, simple, and easy-to-follow way. We’ll explore major events, important dates, and key characters across the games and universe of Fallout — from the early days of technology to rebuilding life in the wasteland.
Let’s jump right into the dark, fascinating timeline of humanity’s rise, fall, and struggle for survival.
What Is the Fallout Timeline?
The Fallout timeline is the history of the Fallout universe. It combines real-world events with a fictional future. It’s not the same as our real future, though. This timeline is shaped by things turning out very differently starting in the 1940s and 50s.
In Fallout, the world becomes highly focused on nuclear energy. Politics change, wars break out, and technology evolves faster than in real life. But with all the progress, fear and greed still rule — and eventually, it all leads to global nuclear destruction.
From pre-war history to post-war survival, the Fallout timeline tells the story of humanity’s mistakes and second chances. It brings life to the world the games are set in.
The Early Years (Pre-World War II)
The Fallout universe shares much of our real history until around the 1940s. After World War II, things begin to change. In this world, nuclear technology becomes a major everyday part of life. Even cars and robots run on atomic energy.
Here’s what stands out:
- The United States focuses heavily on science and the military.
- Culture doesn’t change, staying like the 1950s well into the future.
- Television, clothing, music, and even slang stay the same.
- Robots and laser weapons start to appear much earlier.
This is the start of the alternate path that separates the Fallout universe from our own world. It’s a mix of future tech and old-school charm — creating a very special style.
The Resource Wars (2052–2077)
One of the most important eras in the Fallout timeline happens during the Resource Wars. With fossil fuels like oil running out, countries begin to fight for what’s left.
Here’s what happens:
- In 2052, the United Nations breaks apart due to growing tension.
- Countries like China and the U.S. begin to prepare for war.
- Europe invades the Middle East over oil supplies.
- Nuclear weapons become more common and feared.
By 2066, global conflict breaks out. China invades Alaska to try and steal resources. The U.S. fights back. This battle becomes known as the Sino-American War, and it lasts over a decade.
Everything continues to boil over with threats and violence until one final disaster changes everything forever.
The Great War (October 23, 2077)
The most important date in the Fallout timeline is October 23, 2077. This is when The Great War happens.
In just two hours, the world is almost completely destroyed by nuclear bombs. Nobody knows who fired first, and every major city is targeted. The sky turns orange, buildings crumble, and life on the surface comes to a burning end.
Millions die instantly. The rest face radiation, mutations, and the complete collapse of society. It’s one of the darkest days in human history — and the beginning of Fallout’s post-apocalyptic world.
Those lucky enough to hide in Vault-Tec Vaults survive underground. Years later, they (or their descendants) will step outside to explore the ruined land.
Life After the Bombs (2077–2100s)
Once the bombs fall, the Fallout timeline enters a dark and deadly period. Life above ground becomes harsh. Radiation mutates living things, creating dangerous creatures like Radscorpions and Deathclaws. Most technology stops working.
Key points from this time:
- Ghouls are created — humans changed by radiation but still alive.
- Raiders and gangs take over abandoned towns.
- Vaults are sealed, some designed for secret experiments.
- Survivors start growing food and trying to rebuild.
This is the true start of the Wasteland era. People adapt as best they can, scavenging old tech and trying to stay alive in a world full of danger, ruins, and mystery.
Fallout Timeline – Fallout 76 (2102)
The first Fallout game (by timeline order) is Fallout 76, which takes place in 2102. That’s just 25 years after the bombs dropped.
You play as a resident of Vault 76, one of the few Vaults not used for experiments. It’s your job to go back outside and help rebuild America.
Set in West Virginia, Fallout 76 shows:
- A land just beginning to recover from nuclear war.
- Early signs of new societies and governments.
- Factions fighting for control.
- Strange new monsters caused by nuclear fallout.
Fallout 76 gives us a clear look at the shaky first steps toward rebuilding the world — where every choice you make matters in shaping the future.
Fallout Timeline – Fallout 1 (2161)
The original Fallout game was released in 1997 but takes place in the year 2161.
You play as the Vault Dweller from Vault 13, who must leave their Vault to find a water purification chip. The game is set in Southern California, and the Wasteland is about 84 years old at this point.
Major developments:
- Towns like Shady Sands are growing.
- Raiders and mutants roam freely.
- The Master, a mutated being, tries to create a new super race.
This game started it all — with deep choices, smart writing, and a gritty world. It became the basis for all future Fallout stories.
Fallout Timeline – Fallout 2 (2241)
Fallout 2 is the direct sequel to the first game. It takes place 80 years after Fallout and over 160 years after the bombs.
This story follows the Chosen One, a descendant of the original Vault Dweller. This time, your mission is to save your village and find a powerful device called the GECK to restore the land.
Notable new elements:
- Politics between factions grow more important.
- Slavery and corruption rise in the Wasteland.
- The Enclave, a secret U.S. government group, seeks to control everything.
This game expanded the Fallout universe a lot — showing new cities, technologies, and stories while keeping the same dark humor and deep choices fans love.
Fallout Timeline – Fallout 3 (2277)
Moving forward in time, Fallout 3 is set on the East Coast, in and around Washington, D.C. This marks a big shift and a new start for many fans.
You begin as the Lone Wanderer, born in Vault 101, and search for your missing father.
Exciting highlights:
- Introduction of the Brotherhood of Steel vs. Enclave war.
- A quest for clean water called Project Purity.
- The spread of super mutants and new threats.
This game helped Fallout reach a whole new audience and brought the series into full 3D — all while continuing the Fallout timeline of rebuilding and rebirth.
Fallout Timeline – Fallout: New Vegas (2281)
Fallout: New Vegas takes place in 2281, just four years after Fallout 3. This time, you’re in the Mojave Desert, around what used to be Las Vegas.
You play as The Courier, shot in the head and left for dead… only to rise up and shape the future of the Mojave.
Key features:
- Three major factions fight for control: NCR, Caesar’s Legion, and Mr. House.
- You choose who wins the battle for power.
- Vegas is still full of life, lights, and danger.
New Vegas is known for its deep role-playing elements and meaningful decisions. It gave players huge control over the story and is considered a fan favorite.
Fallout Timeline – Fallout 4 (2287)
Set six years after New Vegas, Fallout 4 is based in the Boston area, also called the Commonwealth.
You play as the Sole Survivor from Vault 111, frozen in time and waking up to find your world completely changed.
Big events include:
- The rise of the Institute, a group that creates advanced Synths (robot people).
- Multiple endings based on your faction choices.
- Improved crafting, settlements, and gun mods.
Fallout 4 shows a more advanced world but still filled with danger, secrets, and hard decisions. It’s one of the most open-ended games in the Fallout timeline.
Fallout Timeline – What’s Next?
The last known events in the Fallout timeline end in 2287, but there is still so much more that could happen. Fans are asking:
- Will the next Fallout game go past 2300?
- Could we see the West Coast and East Coast come together?
- How will society grow or fall again?
Bethesda has confirmed Fallout 5 will happen… eventually. Until then, roleplayers, modders, and storytellers continue to imagine what’s next for the Wasteland.
FAQs
1. Is the Fallout timeline based on real history?
Only slightly. Fallout begins with real-world history but changes dramatically after the 1940s, becoming an alternate future.
2. When did the bombs fall in Fallout?
October 23, 2077 — a day known as The Great War, when nuclear bombs destroyed most of the Earth.
3. What’s the first game in the Fallout timeline?
Fallout 76 is the earliest game, taking place in 2102, just 25 years after the bombs dropped.
4. Is Fallout 5 confirmed?
Yes, Fallout 5 is officially confirmed by Bethesda, but it may take years to release.
5. What is the GECK in Fallout?
The GECK (Garden of Eden Creation Kit) is a powerful tool to rebuild the land after nuclear war.
6. Who is the main enemy in the Fallout timeline?
It changes by game, but big enemies include The Master, Enclave, Super Mutants, and the Brotherhood of Steel (sometimes
Final Thoughts
The Fallout timeline isn’t just a list of events. It’s what makes the Fallout universe so rich and alive.
Understanding this timeline helps players enjoy the story even more. It shows how every Vault, city, monster, and decision fits into a bigger picture. When you explore a dusty town or uncover a forgotten lab, you’re stepping into a world with real history.
Whether you’re replaying the games or starting for the first time, now you have the roadmap to follow.
So load up your Pip-Boy, grab your Power Armor, and get ready to explore the Wasteland — because the story of Fallout is far from over.
