The journey through Fallout: New Vegas DLCs finally reaches its end with Lonesome Road. While we’re not saying goodbye to the Fallout series just yet, this is likely the last trip to the Mojave wasteland for now. Let’s dive into whether this final DLC lives up to expectations.
The earlier DLCs for New Vegas had their ups and downs. Dead Money lacked room for exploration, while Honest Hearts offered a vast area with not much to do.
Old World Blues, on the other hand, struck gold, offering humor, challenges, and plenty to discover. So, where does Lonesome Road fall? Well, it’s a mix of both good and bad.
A Linear Path: A Blessing or a Curse?
The most significant drawback is evident in the name—Lonesome Road. As the title suggests, this DLC is more linear than most players might prefer. It’s more of a straight path with a clear beginning and end, leaving little room for free exploration.
While there are hidden areas and secrets to uncover, the design leans closer to a classic FPS than the open-world experience Fallout fans love.
Adding to the isolation, there are few characters to interact with. Trading is done through automated machines, and most locals are hostile. Your only companions are ED-E, a charming robot who communicates with beeps, and Ulysses, the mysterious ex-Courier who has lured you to this desolate place.
The Divide: A Dangerous Landscape
Ulysses has drawn you to the Divide, a land ravaged by nuclear destruction. The terrain is twisted and hostile, yet fascinating to explore. Despite its linearity, the DLC presents significant challenges. You’ll face two new enemy types: the Marked Men, burned survivors of the Legion and NCR, and the Tunnellers, ferocious, lizard-like creatures that pack a deadly punch.
The challenge is what makes Lonesome Road shine. The battles are intense and rewarding, often pushing you to strategize and stay alert. It might be more combat-heavy than most Fallout fans expect, but the adrenaline-filled encounters make it hard to put down.
A Story Worth Discovering
Beyond combat, Lonesome Road has a lot of backstory to uncover. The Divide is littered with logs, diaries, and hidden areas that shed light on its tragic past. If you’re thorough, you’ll find plenty to keep you intrigued, though some secrets may still elude even the most careful explorers.
Ulysses, as the primary antagonist, adds depth to the narrative. His voice acting is phenomenal, and his motivations bring a personal edge to the story. The final confrontation with him is a highlight, offering players the choice to fight or negotiate, staying true to Fallout’s RPG roots.
What Works and What Doesn’t?
The finale is spectacular, delivering an emotional and satisfying conclusion. However, the DLC’s short length—about five hours—might disappoint players expecting something more substantial. Additionally, the heavy reliance on linear FPS gameplay may alienate fans seeking the expansive, choice-driven Fallout experience.
Some clichéd gaming moments, like the slow-moving lift ambush sequence, feel unnecessary and out of place. And unlike Fallout 3’s Broken Steel, this DLC doesn’t extend the game’s ending, leaving the Battle of Hoover Dam as the ultimate conclusion.
Should You Buy It?
If you enjoy a challenge and don’t mind a more focused, combat-driven experience, Lonesome Road is worth it. It’s not the traditional Fallout formula, but it offers plenty of fun moments, a gripping story, and a memorable ending. Players who prefer large open worlds, extensive dialogue, and non-linear gameplay might find it lacking.
Despite its flaws, Lonesome Road delivers an enjoyable farewell to New Vegas. The Divide’s haunting beauty, ED-E’s charm, and Ulysses’ compelling character make it a worthwhile journey. Now, let’s gear up for Skyrim!
