The numbered entries of the Fallout series all display a power soldier dressed in the latest power armor. This modern armor is standard among the higher ranks of the Brotherhood of Steel, one of post-war America’s most well-known factions. When first starting the game, this mysterious militaristic group is enough to take your breath away. Their shiny armor and advanced weaponry were enough to make you jealous and wish you were part of their team.
Don’t be fooled by the Brotherhood of Steel’s impressive exteriors. Of the entire Fallout series, they’re a group filled with internal fighting and stubbornness to retain their pre-war days. Though they may wield shiny toys, their refusal to accept outsiders, human or mutant, makes them more old-fashioned than you’d expect.
New fans of the series, thanks to the developer and publisher Bethesda, believe the Brotherhood of Steel, led by Elder Lyons, is a humanitarian group that only wants to help people. When they read up about the group, fans become confused about the East versus West Coast versions. With a series decades old, it can be confusing to decipher what each Faction’s roles are in Fallout.
Our list explores some surprising facts about one of Fallout’s oldest factions. There are also spoilers scattered about from the beginning of the series until the current entry, Fallout 4. If you’re interested in learning more about this militaristic group, keep reading.
21 They Hoard Goods For Themselves
The West Coast faction of the Brotherhood of Steel has managed to survive for centuries. By hoarding pre-war military technology, they have managed to become a powerful force that can take down any threat. The Brotherhood even has a team of Scientists at their disposal. Dr. Madison Li in Fallout 4 mentions that the Institute doesn’t give her the opportunities the Brotherhood did, which is why she was happy to return to them. With so much intelligent people working behind the scenes, you would assume that the Brotherhood would be willing to help. Unfortunately, they are only looking out for the interests of the people within their faction. By boarding technology and weapons, the Brotherhood is preparing for their survival and no one else. Anyone else seeking help will be turned away.
20 No Longer Brothers
Before Bethesda obtained Fallout, the Brotherhood of Steel has always shared common traits: hoard technology and protect their interests. In Fallout 3, a splinter group has a starring role. After an argument with the West Coast Brotherhood, Elder Lyons decided to take a small group and head to the East, eventually settling in the Capital Wasteland. This group intended to help people instead of hiding from them. Though he recruited a small team to assist, some members who decided that they didn’t want to be the good guys. Either cast out on their own or of their own free will, the Brotherhood of Steel Outcasts are not allowed with Elder Lyon’s group. Honestly, these Outcasts would rather wander the Wasteland than return to Lyons.
19 The Brotherhood Of Invincibility
The Brotherhood of Steel has hoarded technology for decades. Through extensive research and thanks to a team of brilliant Scientists, they’ve continuously upgraded their defenses and offenses. Their first version, the T-45 model, quickly ran through power cells but were effective enough to push back hostile Chinese forces.
Additional versions included the T-51b power armor, which was lighter and could take even more hits. The power armor has become so powerful that in Fallout: New Vegas, you’ll learn that the T-series of Power Armor is bulletproof. A waste recycling system has also been perfected since users are expected to remain in the suits for an extended amount of time. The Brotherhood is prepared to take down any human or mutated threat. The latest edition is the T-60f model, but it trades defense for poor power cell management.
18 Back Off, Wastelander
The Fallout series is primarily about surviving post-apocalyptic America. Few people in the land are open to speaking to you. Even then, they’re only willing to listen because the protagonist is a well-known Vault Dweller or Chosen One. Can you blame the people for Fallout for being cautious? When starting Fallout 1, when the Vault Dweller first meets the Brotherhood of Steel, you have to complete several side missions before they let you in the door. You’re lucky to run into the group in Fallout 3 and 4 while they’re getting destroyed by Super Mutants and Ghouls. Only because you’re willing to die for them are they accepting of you. Any other time, the group is ready to kill you if you get too close.
17 Decades Of Loyalty Mean Nothing
The Sole Survivor meets Paladin Danse in Fallout 4. He acts like a typical soldier who is more than willing to put his life on the line. Danse has spent years of his life fighting for the Brotherhood of Steel and rose to become one of the best officers under Elder Maxson’s command.
If you decide to explore his backstory, you’ll discover the truth: Danse is a Synth. These Institute creatures and the Brotherhood don’t have the best relationship, as both will immediately engage in a firefight. When Elder Maxson discovers the news, he’s angry and believes Danse is an Institute spy. Danse becomes suicidal at the revelation. Synths who have their minds wiped have no idea they’re Synths unless told. If you decide to help him, he’ll be grateful, though he won’t fight you if you follow Maxson’s orders.
16 No Time To Talk To Your Type, Local
The Brotherhood of Steel doesn’t look kindly upon outsiders, not even their group of exiled Brothers. Their core group is composed of only the most exceptional minds. These power armor wearing warriors believe they’re the best. Both West and East Coast versions think the settlers are too stupid to understand their advanced technology. Miniguns and power armor are too complicated for someone who hasn’t joined the group, which explains why Fallout 3’s Lone Wanderer must have “Power Armor Training” before entering a suit. If you haven’t yet gained their trust, the soldiers will insult you with memorable quotes like “Hey local, shouldn’t you be banging rocks together or something?” and “Keep your distance, mutt. No knowing what is breeding on you.”
15 Will Take Your Property By Force
The Brotherhood of Steel spends countless hours searching for tech in post-war America. Their search takes them through abandoned buildings and sewers. This tech will help them gain the upper hand against human and mutated threats. What happens if you have tech they want? Don’t be surprised if you lose your head over a flux sensor. The Brotherhood is willing to do whatever it takes to horde any technology for their purposes. They are not willing to share it, especially not with any normal settler. The West Coast Brotherhood was known for killing a settler for owning a Protectron or laser Gun, as they believed that outsiders were too stupid to control them. If a settler were intelligent enough to know how to handle advanced technology, yet unwilling to sign up for their cause, they would also face death.
14 Yet Another West Coast Versus East Coast Feud
If you’ve followed the Fallout series since the first game, you may have noticed the drastic change of the Brotherhood of Steel in Fallout 3. In 2254, Elder Lyons was tasked to find the Midwestern Brotherhood chapter. Instead, he found the East Coast in terrible condition. Having a change of heart, he wanted to help people while taking out the Super Mutant Threat. The settlers of the Capital Wasteland began to look up to their new saviors. It was unexpected, but not unwelcomed. Though Lyons wanted to search for technology and discover the reason for the Super Mutant uprising, his priority soon became to protect people. The West Coast Brotherhood was split on Elder Lyons’ decisions, as some were impressed and others were horrified. The West Coast decided to allow the Brotherhood to exist on the East Coast, but would no longer provide support.
13 Only Good Deathclaw Is A Dead Deathclaw
Fallout 3’s Brotherhood of Steel chapter was much different from any other. Many are shocked to find out that the other members don’t like anyone who isn’t a member. They believe that all Super Mutants are belligerent and dumb. Every Ghoul is Feral and should be put down, even if they’re non-hostile like the settlement of Goodneighbor. Even Synths who have no idea they’re from the Institute are treated as hostiles. Don’t be fooled by their willingness to trust the protagonist. The Fallout games have always starred a human, so it’s not surprising the Brotherhood was an optional faction you could join. Bring a non-human follower with you, and they’ll be heckled by the Brotherhood. Luckily, your companions won’t be shot since you’re with them.
12 Left Behind To Be Raised By Killers
Fallout 4’s Elder Arthur Maxson is a descendant of the Brotherhood of Steel. He’s combined the teachings of Elder Lyons and those of his forefathers. The young leader made his first appearance in Fallout 3 as a child. He already knew of the heavy responsibilities to come, but remained loyal to his group. If you hack into his computer terminal, you’ll get a glimpse into what’s in the young Maxson’s head. Besides having a crush on Sarah Lyons, he liked to write stories. But Elder Lyons had pressing concerns about Arthur. He knew the boy was doing well in training but he was surrounded by killers. Instead of playing with other kids his age, he was trapped in a bunker with people teaching him effective killing techniques. Though Arthur ended up being a respected figure, his rage for non-humans almost overwhelmed him.
11 In Need Of Prime Power
The Lone Wanderer is busy searching for their father in the Capital Wasteland in Fallout 3. After he sacrifices himself for his research, you take on the burden of bringing Project Purity to life. Along the way, the Brotherhood of Steel will reach out and ask for your help. They need the Lone Wanderer to help them gain control of Liberty Prine, With this giant robot, they can take down the Enclave. But what if the Lone Wanderer said no or wasn’t available to help? It’s likely that the East Coast Brotherhood of Steel wouldn’t survive on their own. Decades of hiding away without gaining the trust of outsiders would have impacted their rate of survival. The Enclave had already proved a great threat on the West Coast and there would have been little hope for Elder Lyon’s Chapter.
10 Just Leave Us Alone
The Brotherhood of Steel is anything but friendly. When initially meeting them, they don’t want to talk to you. The West Coast Chapter and Outcasts believe that any outsider is equivalent to a caveman. Of course, you may take a more significant interest in their exclusive club. You’ll quickly learn that they’re isolating themselves by choice. They’re not afraid of what lies behind their bunkers and have the firepower to take down any threat. Their biggest concern is if it’s worth it to leave the safety of their headquarters.
Choosing to hideaway has its perks. They’re safe and only have to worry about day-to-day issues. Staying inside has more consequences, as it means fewer recruits, distrust among settlers, and stalling research advances.
9 Protecting His Right To Air “Butcher Pete”
Galaxy News Radio aired news and music across the Capital Wasteland. Once the Lone Wanderer extends the radio station, the music reaches more listeners. The music provided an alternative to the Enclave Radio, which aired long-winded speeches from President Eden. The Brotherhood of Steel wanted to protect DJ Three Dog as he spread the good word. The reason why Elder Lyons wants to protect the DJ so badly is unclear. Three Dog is more important to the Lone Wanderer because he has information about the whereabouts of your father. Other than that, the Brotherhood doesn’t need to invest so much time and resources into protecting Three Dog. Time spent protecting the DJ would be better spent fighting off the Enclave or Super Mutants.
8 High Investment With Little Return
The Enclave were direct descendants of pre-war American military officials, but the Brotherhood of Steel also operates similarly. The Brotherhood is slightly more accepting of outsiders but retains a similar values system. If you’re recruited, you’re forced to live a lifestyle like the military. Any recruit must face long hours in the wastelands, trying to find new pieces of technology to make their leaders proud. It’s no surprise that the Brotherhood began to die off slowly. Potential recruits didn’t want to throw their entire lives away for a flux sensor. To make things worse, the Brotherhood has no loyalty towards their people. They expect everything from you and give little in return. It’s up to you if you want to join their cause or go your separate way to freedom.
7 A Leader With Something To Prove
Fallout 3’s main story contained many moments of sacrifice. James sacrificed himself for Project Purity. The Lone Wanderer and Sarah Lyons are both exposed to high amounts of radiation to push the button to start the purification machine. Though they were injured, they lived another day and worked together to take out what was left of the Enclave. The Brotherhood struggled to survive with no other apparent successors to take control.
In Fallout 4, Elder Lyons and his daughter are dead with Elder Maxson at the wheel of the Prydwen. Though many respect him, not everyone is excited to have such stern leader, but orders are orders. Some believe that since he was appointed at 16 years of age, he thought he had something to prove. Depending on the ending you choose, his decisions would become his downfall.
6 Everything Changed When Bethesda Took Charge
Significant changes were made when Bethesda bought the rights to Fallout. The game was changed from an isometric experience to 3D. The lore was tremendously changed from what Black Isle Studios previously established.
One of the most significant changes Bethesda made to the Fallout series was to the Brotherhood of Steel. Instead of being a group of isolationists who hoarded technology, they were now a benevolent fighting force. Newcomers to the series loved the Brotherhood. Elder Lyons’ Chapter was a drastic change from how the faction worked. Fallout 3’s Brotherhood is an exception and not the norm. Bethesda tried to explain the East Coast Chapter was just an exception. Fallout 4’s Brotherhood combined both traditional West Coast values and those of the late Elder Lyons.
5 Trading Recruits For Protection
The Fallout series has spawned several spin-off games, from Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel and Fallout: Tactics. Bethesda’s stance on if the games are canon is unclear, but they still provide entertainment outside of the numbered entries. Fallout: Tactics showed how cruel the Brotherhood of Steel was to recruit new members. While the recruitment posters weren’t working well enough to get people to sign up, they were forced to take desperate measures. Multiple villages that need help from outside threats. The Brotherhood decides to help, but only if the villagers promise them recruits. In exchange, the Brotherhood would protect the villages. These settlements would have to decide if they wanted their homes to be safe from the threats of the Wasteland or sacrifice the people they loved.
4 Death Over Outsiders
The Brotherhood of Steel has recruitment posters up on both the West and East Coast. They hope to recruit the best minds in America. However, the Brotherhood wouldn’t just accept anyone.Recruitment was a tough process and eventually, the faction gave up on outsiders. They considered most settlers too stupid and weak. Many of their soldiers were trained at a young age, so they didn’t believe any settler at their door could do a good job. By becoming unaccepting of outsiders, the Brotherhood became weak. With slim numbers, their group didn’t have the strength to fight off threats from Super Mutants or Feral Ghoul hordes. In one of Fallout 1’s endings, the Brotherhood eventually learns that by earning the trust of outsiders, they could begin to thrive instead of die out.
3 Would Rather Be Wiped Out Than Seek Help
The Brotherhood of Steel doesn’t like to ask for help. After the events of Fallout 1, the Elders discussed letting in new recruits. In Fallout 2, the group became much more secretive, refusing to interact with anyone outside their doors. They were confident they could survive with the knowledge they’ve hoarded over the years. The Enclave made an appearance and became stronger than the Brotherhood. Instead of recruiting more help, they decided to hide from the new faction. Instead of taking them on, they hide away in bunkers and decide to watch the Enclave’s next move. If it weren’t for the Chosen One who helped steal a set of Vertibird schematics, the Brotherhood would have been wiped out. Instead, they were all able to temporarily weaken the Enclave.
2 Indoctrinated The Most Innocent Survivors
If you decide to help Paladin Danse in Fallout 4, he will be so thankful that he offers you a position in the Brotherhood of Steel. After completing a few quests, you’ll immediately be brought aboard their home base in the Commonwealth; a giant airship called the Prydwen. You’ll be instructed to become familiar with that on-board. Among the medical staff and soldiers are a group of children. The Brotherhood of Steel is raising child soldiers. The children must devote their lives to the group, and their only other choice is becoming Outcasts, which is just another part of the group. The Brotherhood makes no apologies about who they’re training, as long as they have warm bodies willing to sacrifice themselves for the team.
