After six years of exploring the wasteland in Fallout 76, players will soon have the opportunity to become ghouls, according to the MMO's creative director, Jon Rush. The option to embrace radiation and transform into a ghoul will be unlocked at level 50 through a new quest that will commence the "mysterious process". This highly anticipated update is planned for early 2025.

Ghouls are individuals who have survived extended exposure to radiation after leaving the safety of Fallout's vaults. While they gain unique abilities such as enhanced resistance to radiation and an extended lifespan, ghouls also experience side effects including infertility and severe dermatological problems. This marks the first time in the Fallout series that ghouls will be playable characters, opening up new possibilities and gameplay mechanics for players to explore.

Rush explained that players who choose to become ghouls will not only have distinct appearances but also gain innate abilities. Additionally, they will have access to dozens of ghoul-specific perk cards alongside the base game perk cards, providing a range of unique benefits. However, this decision may lead to conflicts with certain factions within the game.

During a recent press event in London, Rush posed the question of what in-game experiences would incentivize players to become ghouls. He hinted at the introduction of more formidable endgame opponents, offering new challenges for ghouls to tackle. Further details on these experiences are expected to be revealed later this year.

When asked about the impact of ghoul-exclusive perks on gameplay, Rush highlighted that ghouls' immunity to radiation means they will no longer rely on power armor and its associated perks. This shift opens up new playstyles, allowing players to allocate perk points differently and explore alternative strategies.

The introduction of playable ghouls is likely to reshape the Fallout 76 meta, as players traditionally rely heavily on power armor for its weight management benefits and damage resistance. However, ghouls will have the ability to harness radiation, potentially altering established gameplay behaviors. Rush emphasized that this change will encourage players to think differently and adapt their playstyles accordingly.

While ghouls can tap into the radiation they possess, it remains uncertain whether they can unleash it or use it to enhance their abilities. This is where the new ghoul-specific perk cards come into play, offering players exciting possibilities and advantages in later-game scenarios.

Despite the allure of becoming a ghoul, players should be aware that faction interactions will be affected by the ghoul's changed appearance. Rush acknowledged that there are significant advantages to remaining human, ensuring a balance between the two options.

Gamers eagerly await the 2025 update, anticipating the transformation of their characters and the consequent changes to their gameplay dynamics. In the meantime, players can familiarize themselves with the new Fallout 76 Skyline Valley map, adding to the anticipation of what lies ahead in this evolving post-apocalyptic world.