If you're a fan of post-apocalyptic worlds and simulation games, then you've probably already played Fallout Shelter. This mobile game has been a hit since its release in 2015, and for good reason. It's addictive, challenging, and allows you to create and manage your own Vault in the Fallout universe. But what if you've already played through the game and are craving something similar? That's where this review comes in. As a graphic designer and avid gamer, I've put together a list of games like Fallout Shelter that will scratch that same itch and keep you entertained for hours on end.
Before we dive into the games, let's talk about what makes Fallout Shelter so great. First and foremost, it's the world-building. The Fallout universe is rich with lore and interesting characters, and Fallout Shelter allows you to explore that world in a new way. Secondly, it's the gameplay. Managing your Vault and keeping your dwellers happy and healthy is no easy feat. And finally, it's the art style. The retro-futuristic design is visually appealing and adds to the overall charm of the game. With that in mind, let's take a look at some games that share those same qualities.
1. Sheltered
Sheltered is a post-apocalyptic survival game that puts you in charge of a family of four as they try to survive in an underground bunker. Like Fallout Shelter, you'll need to manage resources, explore the wasteland, and make tough decisions that will affect your family's survival. The game has a similar retro art style and the gameplay is just as challenging. One of the unique aspects of Sheltered is the ability to send your family members out into the wasteland to scavenge for supplies. However, this comes with the risk of encountering dangerous enemies or contracting illnesses.
Pros:
- Challenging gameplay
- Unique scavenging mechanic
- Similar retro art style
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming for new players
- Can become repetitive over time
2. This War of Mine
This War of Mine is a survival game with a unique twist. Rather than playing as a soldier or hero, you play as a group of civilians trying to survive in a war-torn city. You'll need to scavenge for food and supplies, make tough decisions about who to help and who to turn away, and try to keep your group alive as long as possible. The game has a somber art style that adds to the overall tone of the game. While it may not have the same retro-futuristic design as Fallout Shelter, it shares the same level of world-building and immersive gameplay.
Pros:
- Unique perspective on war
- Immersive gameplay
- Somber art style
Cons:
- Can be emotionally draining
- May not appeal to all players
3. RimWorld
RimWorld is a sci-fi colony management game that shares some similarities with Fallout Shelter. In RimWorld, you'll need to manage a group of colonists as they try to survive on a distant planet. You'll need to gather resources, build structures, and defend your colony from raiders and other threats. The game has a similar retro art style and the gameplay is just as challenging as Fallout Shelter. One of the unique aspects of RimWorld is the ability to customize your colonists and their personalities, which can lead to interesting interactions and storylines.
Pros:
- Customizable colonists
- Challenging gameplay
- Similar retro art style
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming for new players
- Can become repetitive over time
4. Oxygen Not Included
Oxygen Not Included is a space colony simulation game that shares some similarities with Fallout Shelter. In Oxygen Not Included, you'll need to manage a colony of duplicants as they try to survive in a harsh and unforgiving environment. You'll need to manage resources, build structures, and research new technologies to keep your duplicants alive. The game has a similar retro art style and the gameplay is just as challenging as Fallout Shelter. One of the unique aspects of Oxygen Not Included is the focus on managing your colony's air supply, which adds an extra layer of challenge to the game.
Pros:
- Unique air management mechanic
- Challenging gameplay
- Similar retro art style
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming for new players
- Can become repetitive over time
In conclusion, if you're a fan of Fallout Shelter and are looking for similar games to play, there are plenty of options out there. Whether you're looking for a post-apocalyptic survival game or a sci-fi colony management game, there's something for everyone. These games all share the same level of world-building, immersive gameplay, and unique art styles that make Fallout Shelter so great. Give them a try and see which one becomes your new favorite.
| Game | Similarities to Fallout Shelter | Differences from Fallout Shelter |
| Sheltered | Post-apocalyptic setting, resource management, retro art style | Scavenging mechanic, smaller scale |
| This War of Mine | Survival gameplay, immersive world-building, somber art style | Non-fictional setting, emotionally draining |
| RimWorld | Colony management, retro art style, challenging gameplay | Customizable colonists, sci-fi setting |
| Oxygen Not Included | Colony management, retro art style, challenging gameplay | Air management mechanic, sci-fi setting |