Fallout 2 combat actions, aimed shots and companion positioning
Manage AP, inventory, ammunition and allies in the original turn-based combat system.
Edition covered
The original 1998 Fallout 2 PC campaign with standard official-patch rules. Restoration Project and other mods add or change quests and are outside the guide. Publisher pictures show the original game.
Count the actions before moving
Movement and attacks spend AP. Check whether the remaining total allows the intended shot, reload or recovery action before walking closer to the enemy.
| Action | Constraint | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Movement | Spends AP | Reach a useful position without losing the attack |
| Normal shot | Weapon AP cost and hit chance | Reliable damage |
| Aimed shot | Different cost and accuracy | Choose a useful body target |
| Reload | Spends AP | Prepare before the magazine empties |
| Inventory use | Can cost AP | Arrange supplies ahead of time |
Prefer useful accuracy over dramatic aiming
Targeted attacks trade accuracy and cost for a specific result. A weak chance at a critical body part can be worse than a reliable normal shot.
| Check | Reason | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Weapon compatibility | Allies have different strengths | Equip a suitable weapon |
| Ammunition | A firearm needs the correct rounds | Supply matching ammo |
| Burst lane | Friendly fire is possible | Avoid lining allies up |
| Combat settings | Behavior affects positioning | Review follower controls |
| Health | A weak ally can die quickly | Heal before advancing |
Manage the party's firing lanes
Companions act independently according to their settings. Burst fire can endanger nearby allies. Spread the party and avoid standing between a gunner and its target.
Reequip outside immediate danger
Inventory actions can consume AP during combat. Load weapons, choose equipment and review companion behavior before entering a likely fight.
Inventory actions can consume AP during combat. Load weapons, choose equipment and review companion behavior before entering a likely fight.
References
| Reference | Website |
|---|---|
| Fallout 2 publisher listing | store.steampowered.com |
| Interplay Fallout 2 manual | store.steampowered.com |
| Original-game walkthrough | strategywiki.org |