Lecture: Cut Content in Video Games - A Case Study of Fallout: New Vegas

Introduction

• Cut Content in Modern Games:
  • Almost every modern game has some content cut before release, such as locations, levels, characters, and story arcs.
  • Often these remain harmless or unused in the game's data.
  • Occasionally, dataminers find content that contrasts with the game’s tone.

Case Study: Fallout: New Vegas

• Explorer's Journey:
  • Player drb0sch explores beyond the playable area in Fallout: New Vegas.
  • Discovers a disturbing secret outside Mojave Outpost.
• Series Overview:
  • Titled "Outside the Mojave Outpost."
  • Involves venturing into a liminal and lifeless wasteland.

Detailed Exploration Videos

Mojaveraw Videos

• Initial Findings:
  • Unused structures and empty environments.
  • Discovery of an out-of-place encampment and a bizarre quest: "MJOHNSONVER???YEDGSHCH."
• Analysis of Findings:
  • Quest names link to historical references (e.g., Richard Mentor Johnson, US Vice President).

Stuck

• Progression of the Quest:
  • Invisible barriers and deserted outposts hint at hidden quest mechanics.

Signal

• New Discoveries:
  • Strange statues and new radio signals (UVB-68).
  • References to real-world numbers stations (UVB-76).

Looting

• Exploration of a Shack:
  • Unearthed oddities such as blackbox files and holotapes.
  • Photographic evidence of reconnaissance missions.

Ground

• Bunker Discoveries:
  • Hints at a counterfeit operation related to Fallout lore.

Down

• Descent into the Pit:
  • Encounters with thematic elements from "2001: A Space Odyssey."

Themes and Motifs

Radio and Signals

• Recurring Elements:
  • Numbers stations and buried radio towers.

Seeking Deeper Truths

• Narrative Devices:
  • Biblical and literary references.

Military and Destruction

• Critique of Armed Conflict:
  • References to military history and aerospace disasters.

Hieronymus Bosch’s Influence

• Descent into Hell:
  • Surreal and hellish imagery reminiscent of Bosch's paintings.

Alternate Reality and Lore

Alternate Version of New Vegas

• Interplay and Black Isle Influence:
  • Different storyline and outcome to the New Vegas lore.

Impact of Missing Content

• Player Experience:
  • Uncovered content offers a new perspective on the game’s narrative.

Conclusion

• Overall Reflection:
  • The series serves as a meditation on unrealized game content and critiques the destruction caused by war.
  • Continues to intrigue and pose questions about the nature of cut content and alternative game realities.