9 Fallout: New Vegas Challenge Runs That Make the Game Feel Brand New

Every Fallout: New Vegas run begins the same way: a mysterious man named Benny drags you to a cemetery outside Goodsprings and shoots you in the head. The rest of the game is your decision. This open-world RPG allows you to choose your Courier's appearance, skills, and the way they navigate the wasteland. You can be a cowboy, a vampire, a pacifist, or a pickpocket with explosives — the choice is yours. You can also set your own house rules, such as limiting yourself to certain weapons or playing with specific factions.

When you start a new game, you can decide to play in Hardcore mode, which adds weight to every piece of ammo and forces you to eat, drink, and sleep for survival. You heal more gradually, and fast travel costs you resources. Companions are not invulnerable in Hardcore mode, either.

The Mojave is home to four major factions: Mr. House's New Vegas, Yes Man's Independent New Vegas, Caesar's Legion, and the New California Republic. Choosing a faction comes with its own perks, such as disguises and smoother interactions. However, this also means that other factions will view you as an enemy. A faction-run can lead to failed quests, hostile encounters, and even the loss of companions who don't appreciate your actions.

For a cowboy run, focus on building your character's strength and shooting skills. Aim for the Cowboy perk, which boosts damage with revolvers, knives, dynamite, and hatchets. Alternatively, play as a vampire and travel only at night while sneaking around. You can also choose to be a low-intelligence character, which unlocks humorous dialogue and some unique items, but your character will be weaker in certain skills.

A pacifist run is an extreme challenge, as you cannot kill anyone or use companions. You'll need to be exceptionally sneaky and rely on stealth to progress through the game. To attempt a pacifist run, focus on building your Sneak and Speech skills and activate the Silent Running perk to avoid detection.

Finally, you can attempt an outlaw run, where you do not align yourself with any faction. Everyone becomes your enemy, and you'll need to rely on stealing and sneaking to survive. This is a risky and challenging way to play New Vegas, but it offers a unique and rewarding experience.