Fallout Developer Discusses Potential for Playable Ghouls in FO5

The prospect of playable Ghouls in the next major installment of the Fallout series has been discussed, as hinted by a developer from Fallout 76. The popularity of Ghouls has surged in 2024, fueled by the debut of the Amazon TV series and recent updates to Fallout 76. This increased interest may prompt Bethesda to consider featuring them more prominently in future games.

The Fallout TV show, which premiered earlier this year, had a significant impact on the franchise’s popularity. According to Microsoft, the show not only boosted playtime across all Fallout titles but also helped revitalize the franchise’s image. One standout character from the series, portrayed by Walton Goggins, was a Ghoul gunslinger who captivated fans and further elevated the Ghoul’s status within the Fallout community.

In an interview with The Gamer at Gamescom 2024, Fallout 76 Creative Director Jon Rush speculated about the possibility of Ghouls becoming playable characters in Fallout 5. Rush pointed out that while Fallout 76 recently introduced Ghouls as playable characters—a first for the franchise—this feature’s success could influence future titles. “We design our games for player enjoyment. If Ghouls contribute to that experience, we would definitely consider them,” Rush stated. This suggests that if Ghouls continue to be popular and meet player demand, they could potentially be included in Fallout 5.

Potential for Playable Ghouls in Fallout 5

It’s important to approach Rush’s comments with some caution, given that he is not confirmed to be directly involved in the development of Fallout 5. While the next Fallout game might release sooner than expected, it is likely still years away, and the future popularity of Ghouls remains uncertain. Fans will need to wait for an official announcement from Bethesda for more concrete details about the game.

In the meantime, fans eager to play as a Ghoul don’t have to wait for Fallout 5. Ghouls are currently available as playable characters in Fallout 76, and a recent mod for Fallout 4 allows players to create and customize a Ghoul character, inspired by Walton Goggins' popular portrayal. Additionally, other mods offer further customization options for creating a personalized Ghoul experience in Fallout 4.