According to the folks at Joystiq, Bethesda will be releasing the special edition (for 360, PS3, and PC) for $70.00, which beside the game, includes:
Vault Boy Bobblehead (uhoh, where have I seen him before? hmm)
“The Art of Fallout 3” 100-page hardcover book with concept art/comments from the team
“Making of Fallout 3” DVD
and all packaged in a custom metal…lunchbox?!
There is also a release date of October 7, 2008 listed on Gamestop and Amazon (unconfirmed by Bethesda)
I’ve never played either of the first two, so is 3 something folks new to the franchise can jump right into, or should I find some copies on eBay?
Vault Boy Bobblehead (uhoh, where have I seen him before? hmm)
“The Art of Fallout 3” 100-page hardcover book with concept art/comments from the team
“Making of Fallout 3” DVD
and all packaged in a custom metal…lunchbox?!
There is also a release date of October 7, 2008 listed on Gamestop and Amazon (unconfirmed by Bethesda)
I’ve never played either of the first two, so is 3 something folks new to the franchise can jump right into, or should I find some copies on eBay?
Part 3 is a radical departure from the series, going from 3rd person isometric turn-based combat to a real time Oblivion style with Baldur's Gate-esque pausing for tactical decision making. If you want to understand a bit more of the backstory with the Brotherhood of Steel and the super-mutants, etc. then I would recommend playing at least part 2. Part 1 is excellent as well, but the graphics are a tiny bit worse, although it does have a character voiced by Richard Dean Anderson!
So, yes, definitely play Fallout 2 if at all possible, especially if you are really into old-school RPGs.
They must develop it for as long as it requires it to be. I won't have any ham fisted pushed out of the gate too early just to please to fans bullshit!