Why Fallout 4 Is Set in Boston

This year's post-apocalyptic role-playing game Fallout 4 is set in Boston. But why did Bethesda Game Studios choose Beantown for its setting? During a panel presentation today at E3 2015, game director Todd Howard offered an explanation, albeit a brief one.

"We debated for a while," Howard said, though he did not name any cities that were also in the running.

As for why Bethesda ultimately chose Boston, Howard pointed out that Fallout 3 contained references to the New England city, so going there with a full game was a logical next step. He also said that Boston's mix of history and technology (this robot dog was built in Boston) makes it a good fit.

"We had had some seeds in Fallout 3. And we felt that Boston has the right mix of American history and high-tech," Howard said. "It's very good for Fallout."

Fallout 4 lead designer Emil Pagliarulo, who grew up in Boston, added, "There's a richness and a flavor to the city." He went on to say that playing the game has made him feel homesick.

Fallout 4 launches in November for Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PC. We learned a lot more about the game this week at E3; check out some of the big stories below.

• Bethesda on New Fallout Mobile Game: "This Is Not About Making Money"
• Fallout 4 Director: "Graphics Matter"
• Why Fallout 4 PC Mods are Coming to Xbox One Before PS4
• In Fallout 4, You Can't Kill Your Dog
• Fallout 4 and Fallout 3 Bundle Announced as Xbox One Exclusive at E3 2015