Bethesda Explains First Fallout 3 DLC

The first of three downloadable episodes for the Xbox 360 and PC versions of Fallout 3, Operation: Anchorage, is set for release in January. Bethesda has just outlined what to expect from the episode and sadly, even though it takes place in Alaska, it doesn't star an irradiated Sarah Palin.

Anchorage has players entering into a military simulation of the liberation of the capital of Alaska from Chinese occupation forces - an event which takes place sometime before the world is devastated by nuclear warfare. Fallout 3 lead producer stated in an interview with IGN that the episode is mostly "combat/stealth" and will introduce new weapons, armor, and gadgets. Anchorage will also feature "interactive strike teams" for you to command. Let's just hope they're smarter than the normal NPC companions. Additionally, the DLC will have a few new Achievements and a perk called "Covert Ops."

Anchorage (which costs 800 MS Points, or $10) can be accessed at any level once you leave Vault 101. As it's a computer stimulation, you won't have access to your normal equipment - which is how they balance things across different player levels, I guess. Contrary to expectations, Anchorage won't raise the level cap from 20. For that, you'll have to wait until March when the third DLC episode, Broken Steel, is released.