The Lost Code of Fallout: A Post-Apocalyptic Tragedy
The Fallout series, a cult classic in the video game world, has gifted fans a unique post-apocalyptic universe. However, the original source code and design materials for the first game in the series are, sadly, no longer available. Fallout creator Tim Cain recently shared a new YouTube video detailing how the archive was lost and the significant loss this represents for game preservation efforts.
# Why Fallout’s Code Vanished
According to Cain, he had created his own archive while working on Fallout. However, an instruction from Interplay required him to destroy all early design notes, code, and prototypes. “When I left Fallout, I was told, ‘You have to destroy everything,’ and I did,” Cain explained. “All drafts, code for different versions, writings for the GURPS system—it’s all gone.”
Cain further explained that Interplay planned to create its own archive, but this also failed. Years later, the studio contacted him, saying, “We lost the archive.” Cain admitted he initially suspected a trap, but learned that the loss was indeed real. Currently, only the code for the retail version of the game has been recovered, but early development materials and original artwork are completely lost.
# A Lesson in Game Preservation
This unfortunate event highlights the critical importance of proper archiving and preservation practices in the gaming industry. Efforts like Ubisoft’s work to make older games playable offline or PlayStation’s initiative to protect its historical archive with data tapes in mines are examples of steps being taken to prevent such losses.
The lost code of the first Fallout game demonstrates the irreversible loss of not just a game, but a vital piece of video game history. This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the need to carefully preserve both new and old productions in the future.