Bethesda Softworks

Fallout 4

From cult favourite to cultural powerhouse.

A dog stands near a weathered gas station and red chair, looking at a distant person walking on a rural road lined with power poles, under a blue sky with scattered clouds.

Insight

After a seven-year absence – an eternity for a gaming franchise – Fallout 4 was one of the most anticipated games of all time amongst its fans.

In order to transform it from cult favourite to cultural powerhouse, Fallout needed to bring its unique flavour to the masses.

Close-up of a metallic, battle-worn power armor helmet from the video game Fallout 4, with the games logo centered in white text across the image.

Idea

The message to Fallout fans across the globe was ‘Welcome home’.

With the game’s content held a tight secret, Fallout built a campaign of experiences that brought its world to life to its fans, alongside a new brand tone, key art and logo.

A first of its kind app, Fallout C.H.A.T. created a custom keyboard and emoji drawn from the game‘s iconic characters, allowing users to text fellow Fallout fans in their contacts using emojis and GIFs from Wasteland.

Vault Boy himself starred in “What Makes You S.P.E.C.I.A.L.?”, seven original videos that gave fans a preview of new features alongside the game’s unique blend of humour and violence.

Black-and-white vintage TV test pattern with geometric shapes and lines, and the words “PLEASE STAND BY” in bold white letters across the center.

Impact

Fallout 4 became the internet’s most talked-about topic for 24 hours before and after launch.

It won Best in Show at E3 and became one of the best-selling games of the year, shipping over 12 million units at launch, representing over $750m in sales.

Gold

Outstanding Overall Advertising Campaign of the Year

Gold

Most Innovative Product Announcement

Gold

Best Product Logo Design