In Fallout 2, Vault 13, once home to the Vault Dweller, now harbors an unexpected population: intelligent Deathclaws led by the philosophical Gruthar. These Deathclaws, having rejected their violent Enclave programming, aspire to coexist peacefully with humanity. However, their hopes are shattered when an Enclave squadron, led by the formidable antagonist Frank Horrigan, descends upon them with the intent to eradicate the peaceful settlement.
Designed by Fallout 2 developer John Deiley, the talking Deathclaws stood as a unique addition to the game’s narrative landscape. Deiley expresses regret over the demise of these characters, highlighting their unexpected depth and complexity within the Fallout universe. Their untimely demise serves as a poignant reminder of the precarious balance between peace and conflict in the post-apocalyptic wasteland.
Humanity’s Biggest Menace, Allegedly
In a candid interview with TheGamer, Deiley recounts the moment he stumbled upon the unsettling revelation that his cherished creation, the speaking Deathclaws, faced imminent eradication from Fallout 2. Serendipitously crossing paths with Feargus Urquhart in a programmer’s office, Deiley caught sight of the disheartening scene unfolding on the screen—a scene set within Vault 13. Confounded by the abrupt decision to excise the area from the game, Deiley confronted the programmers, only to learn of their unilateral choice to eliminate the Deathclaws by the hand of the Enclave. Deiley’s dismay stemmed not only from the suddenness of the decision but also from the lack of consultation or notification, leaving him feeling marginalized and betrayed by the development team’s actions.
Meanwhile, Fallout 2 designer Chris Avellone weighed in on the contentious topic of the speaking Deathclaws, expressing his reservations about their inclusion. Avellone contends that Deathclaws, revered as formidable adversaries within the Fallout universe, should maintain their status as imposing and fearsome creatures. Introducing intelligence to the Deathclaws, Fallout 2 designer argues, diminishes their role as iconic monsters that players triumph over—a narrative shift that undermines the established dynamic between player and foe. His dissent underscores the intricate balance between storytelling innovation and preserving the core essence of established lore within the Fallout franchise.
For those who assume deathclaws are harmful as we speak, you must have seen them within the ’90s.
Deiley disagrees, saying “I imply, you’ve received Tremendous Mutants and Ghouls, why not have one thing that may stand as much as the Tremendous Mutants?”
Despite the fact that the speaking Deathclaws have been ultimately massacred, Deiley says Urquhart was initially very happy with the thought, because it was a singular twist on Vault 13.
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