Fallout 5's Potential Combat System Could Outshine Starfield's

Even though Starfield has recently hit the gaming scene, Bethesda fans are already anticipating the studio's next moves. While The Elder Scrolls 6 has been officially announced as the next project, it's safe to assume that Fallout 5 is on the horizon. While nothing concrete has been unveiled yet, fans are eager to theorize and compile wish lists for this upcoming installment. And though the release date is likely far off, Fallout 5 may have already surpassed Starfield in a crucial aspect.

It's far too early to determine if Starfield or Fallout 5 is the superior game since the latter hasn't even been officially announced. However, it's probable that Fallout 5 will follow the tradition of its predecessors by offering a distinctive combat system. While it's expected to include the first-person combat characteristic of modern Bethesda titles, it will also reintroduce the beloved VATS (Vault-Tec Assisted Targeting System) mechanic. This iconic feature has been a hallmark of the Fallout series, making its return a logical choice and potentially elevating the overall combat experience.

Fallout's combat fundamentally revolves around gunplay, a contrast to The Elder Scrolls series. Both Fallout and Starfield immerse players in a world where they acquire an array of firearms to dispatch their adversaries. While melee weapons may exist, firearms dominate the gameplay. As players progress, the gunplay becomes increasingly dynamic and satisfying, forming a compelling combat loop that keeps them hooked.

While Starfield's combat system may be among Bethesda's finest, it appears to lack a key element. Not only does its combat feel more realistic and subdued compared to Fallout's, but it also lacks the ability to employ the VATS system. VATS injects vitality into Fallout's combat, setting it apart from other RPGs. This is an element Starfield lacks, which may hinder its appeal.

Given that Starfield doesn't emphasize melee combat, confrontations with swarms of enemies can become frantic and overwhelming. VATS offers a respite from the chaos, allowing players to selectively target foes. While Starfield's first-person shooter combat may surpass that of Fallout 4, the absence of VATS can make it feel more challenging and occasionally less fluid, especially in confined spaces like hallways and tight corridors where players confront hordes of foes without the aid of a slow-motion feature.

Fallout 5 is likely to build on the foundation laid by Starfield to create an even more captivating combat system. The addition of VATS could elevate it to unparalleled heights. With years to refine it, Bethesda has the opportunity to craft one of the most exceptional RPG combat systems to date. While Starfield may offer a fantastic gaming experience, Fallout 5 has the potential to take the concept to a whole new level.

Although no official details have been disclosed, it's reasonable to assume that Fallout 5 will retain VATS, as it's an integral part of the franchise. Omitting it would be unusual, as every previous installment, including Fallout 76, has featured VATS. Its inclusion is poised to bolster an already robust combat system, potentially filling the void left by Starfield and offering an exciting prospect for fans.