For 200 years, Vault 101 has faithfully served the remaining inhabitants of Washington DC, now known as the Capital Wasteland. The global nuclear war of 2077 left the United States almost dead, but the residents of Vault 101 enjoy a life free from the dangers of the outside world.

Giant insects, raiders, slavers, and even mutated humans stand no chance against Vault-Tec's technology. But one day you wake up to discover that your father has left Vault 101 for unknown reasons. Leaving behind the only place you have ever known, you decide to follow your father and uncover the truth behind his disappearance. Enjoy the ultimate freedom that Fallout 3 offers by exploring every corner of the Capital Wasteland. See the remnants of the United States monuments in their post-war form and make decisions that define you, changing the world as you see fit. Design your character exactly as you imagine by customizing them through the SPECIAL Character System.