SPECIAL

SPECIAL is a character attribute system used in the Fallout series of video games. Developed by Interplay Entertainment for the original Fallout released in 1997, the SPECIAL system allows for a flexible role-playing experience by governing the player character's abilities and skills. The acronym SPECIAL stands for Strength, Perception, Endurance, Charisma, Intelligence, Agility, and Luck, which are the seven basic attributes that define the capabilities and traits of every character in the game world.

Overview

The SPECIAL system is integral to the gameplay mechanics of the Fallout series, influencing everything from combat effectiveness to social interactions. Each of the seven attributes plays a critical role in the development of the player's character, affecting various derived statistics, skills, and the ability to use certain equipment or perform specific actions within the game.

• Strength determines the physical power of the character, affecting the ability to carry items, melee damage, and the use of heavy weapons.
• Perception influences accuracy in combat, especially with ranged weapons, and the ability to detect hidden items or enemies.
• Endurance impacts the character's health, resistance to damage, and stamina.
• Charisma affects interactions with non-player characters (NPCs), including persuasion and bartering abilities.
• Intelligence governs the number of skill points received when leveling up and the effectiveness of hacking and repairing.
• Agility controls the number of action points available for use in combat and the ability to dodge attacks.
• Luck influences many aspects of the game in subtle ways, including critical hits in combat and the likelihood of favorable outcomes in various situations.

Character Creation and Development

During character creation, players allocate points to their SPECIAL attributes, which can be further modified by choosing Perks, traits, and wearing certain items or using drugs within the game. As characters gain experience and level up, they can continue to enhance their skills and select additional Perks, allowing for a highly customized gameplay experience.

Impact on Gameplay

The SPECIAL system directly affects the player's options and effectiveness in both combat and non-combat situations. For example, a character with high Intelligence might excel at hacking computers and crafting items, while a character with high Strength may specialize in melee combat and heavy weaponry. The system encourages players to experiment with different attribute combinations to suit their playstyle.

Legacy

Since its introduction, the SPECIAL system has been a defining feature of the Fallout series, praised for its depth and flexibility. It has influenced the design of other role-playing games and has been adapted and refined in subsequent Fallout titles, including massively multiplayer online games like Fallout 76.