Japanese Version of Fallout 3 Changes Up the Cannibal Perk

A Fallout 3 player recently noted that in the Japanese version of the game, the Cannibal perk is renamed “Mystic Power” and features a distinct description. This discovery has sparked discussions within the Fallout 3 community, resulting in various explanations being put forward.

Fallout 3 is a post-apocalyptic action role-playing game developed by Bethesda Game Studios. Set in a retro-futuristic world devastated by nuclear war, the game follows the player character as they navigate the harsh wasteland of Washington, D.C. Players can explore the vast open world, complete quests, interact with various factions and characters, and engage in combat with Fallout 3’s mutated creatures and hostile factions. The game is known for its deep storytelling, moral choices that impact the game world, and its immersive atmosphere filled with dark humor and retro 1950s aesthetics.

A Reddit user called Titanor discovered that in the Japanese release of Fallout 3, the Cannibal perk was renamed to “Mystic Power”. In this version, the perk allows players to restore their health by examining corpses while sneaking, using mystical abilities. Additionally, if someone witnesses it, it is considered a suspicious act. The Japanese description reads, “Heal your wounds with a mysterious power! When you inspect a human corpse, your health will be restored.” This change is notably unusual and deviates slightly from the original aesthetics that define the Fallout franchise.

This alteration has sparked various reflections within the Fallout 3 community. Some users pointed out the sensitivity around cannibalism in Japanese culture, drawing comparisons to other historical and cultural sensitivities. Others noted additional changes and censorship in the Japanese version, such as the inability to detonate Megaton’s bomb or the absence of certain Fallout 3 characters like Mister Burke from specific quests. Some players have also noted changes in other Japanese entries, such as Fallout 76, where the name of the “Nuka Launcher” had to be changed to “Nuka Victory Launcher.”

How Does Cannibalism Work in Fallout 3 Originally?

In its original form, the Cannibal perk in Fallout 3 is a special ability that allows the player character to eat the corpses of certain humanoid enemies. This action provides the player with a small amount of health regeneration, effectively turning fallen enemies into a potential source of sustenance. However, using this perk can have consequences, such as negative Karma, which reflects the character’s moral standing in the game world. Additionally, some factions or characters may react negatively if they witness the player character engaging in cannibalism.

The discussion surrounding the “Mystic Power” perk in the Japanese version of Fallout 3 highlights the cultural nuances and adaptations made in game localization, shaping player experiences based on regional sensitivities and preferences. Despite nearly 16 years having passed since the game’s release, Fallout 3 remains a valued title within the franchise’s community.

Fallout 3

Fallout 3 is the third installment of the mainline series and has players stepping into the Capital Wasteland. There, they will find a wide array of NPCs, side quests, and an engrossing unfolding story.

Released

October 28, 2008