Fallout 5 might be a few years off, but that hasn’t dampened the excitement for another thrilling journey through a post-apocalyptic wasteland. Bethesda has a track record of crafting captivating settings with intriguing factions, and fans expect no less from the next installment in the series.
Even though Fallout 5 is still a ways away, that hasn’t stopped speculation. There are countless regions in America that Bethesda could choose to explore, each offering its unique factions that make the wasteland come alive. Factions really add depth to these barren landscapes, and while we can’t predict which ones we’ll encounter, one can only hope Fallout 5 will include a faction of cannibals.
Speaking of cannibal factions, let’s run through a brief history. We’ve had The Family in Fallout 3, an interesting albeit small community. Then, there’s the White Glove Society from Fallout: New Vegas, a group of elitists who see cannibalism as a high-class affair. Fallout 76 introduced the Gourmands, with their own peculiar habits. Each of these factions approached cannibalism in a unique way, adding layers to the story beyond mere shock value.
Interestingly, Fallout 1 and 2 touched on cannibalism, but not to the extent of forming dedicated factions. Fallout 4’s Far Harbor brought us the Trappers, though the base game missed out on a fully-fledged cannibal group.
The theme of cannibalism in Fallout truly brings the horrors of the wasteland to the forefront. It’s a grim reality borne of desperation, and Fallout 5 is likely to expand on this eerie storytelling device, though exactly how remains a mystery. Imagine a faction that sees ghouls as a delicacy or one that only turns on its rivals. Perhaps a new group could introduce endocannibalism, where they only consume their deceased. Despite its gruesome nature, cannibalism presents fascinating narrative opportunities for Fallout 5.
Take the White Glove Society as an example. They’re caught between their origins and the desire to move beyond them. Mortimer, a member, argues for reclaiming their cannibalistic heritage, suggesting that true elitism is achieved by indulging in the most exquisite—and forbidden—meals.
As we look forward, the wait for Fallout 5 seems lengthy. With The Elder Scrolls 6 next on Bethesda’s agenda, and news about it still scarce since its 2018 announcement, Fallout enthusiasts are left to explore Fallout 76’s latest updates and tune into Amazon’s upcoming live-action Fallout series. The question of factions remains an intriguing one, promising to add depth to the evolving Fallout narrative. Will we see another cannibalistic group showcased? Only time will tell as we inch closer to Fallout 5’s eventual release.
