Computer game review
Xbox 360
Release date Out now

Born in a bunker following a nuclear cataclysm, you must make your way to the surface, but has anything survived outside?

A landmark title and the best game to be released for the Xbox 360 since BioShock, Fallout 3 is cinematic and epic in equal measure, helped by A-list voice talent: Liam Neeson, Malcolm McDowell and Ron Perlman.

Starting off as a baby, the player is sent on an engrossing journey through a well-realised, highly detailed and beautiful world. The sense of progression as you grow older and gain experience before heading out to the wasteland is well structured.

Once you are outside, there is much to explore with the game allowing free movement to fully engage with the intriguing characters and sub-plots.

The control system, often the bane of action adventure games, is effective and instinctive, while the micromanagement of weapons, gear and health pick-ups is slick and intuitive. Particularly cool is the weapons system that sees guns wear out with use, forcing strategic play rather than carefree blasting.

Much of Fallout 3 relies on surprise and shock. Like a movie, the plot is built on twists and turns, which are beautifully integrated into the game. Its only real flaw is that it’s so immersive and all encompassing that other games, and possibly real life, will be secondary considerations! Jonathan Wilkins

VERDICT: 10/10
A stunning, groundbreaking game that drives the genre forwards.