# Fallout: London – An Essential Total Conversion Mod for Fallout 4
For enthusiasts of Bethesda’s *Fallout* franchise, the gap between official installments can seem like an endless post-apocalyptic stretch. Luckily, the modding community has consistently stepped in to bridge the gap with innovative and ambitious works. One such endeavor, *Fallout: London*, is a total conversion mod for *Fallout 4* that immerses players in a fresh environment complete with unique lore, factions, and ambience. Created by a collective of over 100 modders and voice actors, *Fallout: London* is a heartfelt project that spanned nearly five years to finalize. Despite initial challenges, including compatibility concerns with *Fallout 4’s* next-gen update, the mod has solidified its status as a must-experience for series aficionados.
## A Fresh Wasteland to Discover
*Fallout: London* is set 160 years following the global nuclear conflict, and 40 years prior to the *Fallout 3* timeline. Placed within a post-apocalyptic rendition of London, the mod provides a novel interpretation of the *Fallout* universe. In contrast to the well-known wastelands of the United States, London’s devastation is infused with British culture, history, and architectural flair.
The mod brings forth a plethora of new adversaries, allies, factions, and even mechanics that are not found in the original game. For example, ladders—previously absent in *Fallout 4*—make their debut, introducing a fresh aspect of vertical exploration. The UK alternative to the Pip-Boy 3000, dubbed the Atta-Boy personal computer, serves as a delightful addition for players accustomed to the wrist-mounted version in the original game. Moreover, there’s a dog companion named Churchill, a bulldog that seamlessly integrates into the British backdrop.
## An Extraordinary Narrative
In *Fallout: London*, you assume the role of a character who emerges from an underground chamber—not a Vault, but a comparable structure—and steps into a ravaged London. The city is fragmented by factions with differing ideologies about rebuilding civilization. As with any *Fallout* title, you’ll need to navigate these factions, undertake missions, and determine whom to support or oppose.
The mod’s plot may seem familiar—awakening in a post-apocalyptic landscape and selecting allegiances—but it’s the unique setting and the introduction of new factions that set it apart. The modders have successfully crafted a domain that feels both uniquely British and unmistakably *Fallout*. From canned beans to medieval armaments, the mod abounds with subtle details that enrich the authenticity of the setting.
## Acquiring *Fallout: London*
The simplest method to install *Fallout: London* is to have *Fallout 4: Game of the Year Edition* on GOG. Just install the base game, then download *Fallout: London* from GOG at no cost. However, be advised: the mod will “take over” your *Fallout 4* installation, necessitating the deactivation of cloud saves and a game reinstall should you wish to revert to the base version.
For users on Steam, the steps are slightly more complex. You’ll need to reinstall *Fallout 4*, disable any active mods, erase your saved files, and utilize a custom tool to revert the game to a compatible iteration. An optional fix for prolonged loading times is also available on Nexus Mods. Considering that *Fallout 4 GOTY Edition* frequently retails for $10–$15 on GOG, purchasing a copy there could streamline the installation process.
## A Passionate Effort
In spite of its unofficial status, *Fallout: London* possesses the feeling of a stand-alone game. The modders have designed a world with a unique aesthetic, vision, and array of narratives to convey. While signs of its mod origins may be evident upon close inspection, it’s easy to get immersed in the journey if approached with the right attitude.
The mod has undergone several updates since its launch, rectifying bugs and quality concerns that emerged during development. After all, the team behind *Fallout: London* had a significantly more limited QA team compared to Bethesda, so a few issues were bound to arise. However, the mod is now in far better condition, making it well worth the time for anyone who appreciates *Fallout 4*.
## A Novel Approach to *Fallout* Mechanics
One of the most striking features of *Fallout: London* is how seamlessly it integrates with *Fallout 4’s* systems. The interface has been redesigned to echo the UK’s 1970s “Protect and Survive” nuclear safety initiative, and the new weaponry and armor can be crafted and modified just like in the original game. Settlement construction is also part of the experience.
