Out of all the Vaults we’ve seen in the TV adaptation of Fallout, Vault 4 is one of the weirdest. It’s a community full of mutants and those who survived the destruction of Shady Sands. So what’s going on with Vault 4?
What was Vault 4 created for?
Vault 4 was designed to merge human DNA with the DNA of certain animal species. Staffed by around 80 researchers, the goal was to create a race of humans that could survive the radiation on the surface world.
To carry out this research, Vault 4 lured in people on the surface under false pretenses, then used them as test subjects.
How the experiments created mutants
Genetic splicing combined human DNA with radiation-resistant animals, producing a range of outcomes. Some subjects developed partial mutations, while others were altered beyond recognition.
The most extreme results of Vault 4’s research were the creation of entirely new species like gulpers. These creatures were born from human mothers but resembled mutated axolotls.
Eventually, the population of Vault 4 eventually reached a breaking point. The hybrids and surviving test subjects killed the original staff and took control of the facility. Once the scientists were gone, the survivors turned the vault into a real community.
How Shady Sands survivors change Vault 4
After the destruction of Shady Sands and much of the New California Republic, refugees scatter across the wasteland looking for safety. Vault 4 became a destination because it was intact and already open to surface dwellers.
This time, the newcomers are not used as test subjects. They’re reluctantly accepted as residents. They receive food, shelter, and protection. That distinction marks how far Vault 4 has moved from its original purpose.
The Shady Sands and NCR survivors blend in with the descendants of the original mutants. One big difference is the NCR survivors will partake in rituals celebrating Lee Moldaver, one of the leaders of what’s left of the NCR
Vault 4 has a cult-like admiration for Moldaver, who they refer to as Flame Mother. They believe in her attempt to recreate civilization, though for now they’re not an active player in her plans. We haven’t seen Vault 4 since season 1 ended. Though it’s made its mark on fans for being one of the creepiest Vaults shown in the series so far.
