Following the success of Max’s The Last of Us (2023-), viewers could expect a rise in video game adaptation series, but nothing prepared us for the giant influx we’re seeing this year. Five Nights at Freddy’s (2023) received star-studded treatment with real-life puppets, Super Mario Bros Movie (2023) shocked with their high profile cast list, and even Gran Torismo (2023) made a debut on the big screen. However, Amazon throws its hat in the ring with its newest series adaptation of Fall Out.
Originating as a classic PC game, Fall Out is a fan-favorite post-apocalyptic game that has captured the hearts of most gamers. The game series is known for its cheeky Norman Rockwell aesthetic tied with outrageous body humor, so the TV series has big shoes to fill. Plus, as we all know, video game adaptations have a history of being … disappointing to fans. So with all of that in mind, we had to check out the eight-episode release of Fall Out (2024-).
The series splits off into three main plotlines: Lucy, Maximus, and the Ghoul. Just as you can switch around perspectives in the game, the series does as well. Aesthetically, the series immediately translates the style and look of the game well. The underground bunkers in the very first episode provide a nice inside look to a scarily perfect sunless life. Just as you sit into the underground world, we’re pushed out of it. Once we reach the surface, all bets are off. Over time, the series becomes more and more crazily and amazingly horrendous. You watch bunk-dwellers become disillusioned to the surface through unimaginable tasks, runaway radiated cowboys kill every moving thing, and steel-suited soldiers desert a technology-based cult; all while still retaining a great sense of humor.
Overall, Fall Out is a wildly hilarious adaptation of an amazing game. While not copying the games, Fall Out adds to the deep lore and nods to long-term fans in the best way possible. Fan of the original series or not, I highly recommend this series for your next campy post-apocalyptic watch! Okey Dokey!