Fallout, the latest video game adaptation to hit Amazon Prime Video, has exploded in popularity, securing a record-breaking debut since its launch on 10 April. In just the first three weeks, it became the second-most watched show globally on the platform, amassing 65 million viewers, and it now holds the title for the biggest opening in Amazon’s history within the United States.
Nielsen’s streaming ratings reveal that Fallout accumulated an impressive 2.9 billion minutes of viewing time over its first five days. This figure significantly surpasses the previous record set by Reacher in 2022, which garnered 1.84 billion minutes in the same timeframe, and more than doubles the views of the children’s show Bluey, which had 1.39 billion minutes leading up to its special, The Sign, released on 14 April.
Unlike The Last of Us, which closely followed its original game’s storyline, Fallout introduces a new narrative within the game’s universe. Set in the year 2296 — about a decade after Fallout 4 —the series expands the franchise’s timeline further than ever before. The plot centres around Lucy MacLean (played by Ella Purnell), a resident of Vault 33, who embarks on a perilous journey through the wasteland after raiders kidnap her father (Kyle MacLachlan).
Lucy, unacquainted with the harsh realities outside her vault, quickly discovers the dark conspiracies permeating the Fallout universe. Along her journey, she encounters complex characters such as The Ghoul (Walton Goggins) and allies like Maximus (Aaron Moten) from The Brotherhood of Steel, each enriching her understanding of the wasteland’s brutal existence.
The show’s success has not only captivated viewers but has also introduced many to the Fallout games for the first time, leading to a spike in player counts for Fallout 4, Fallout: New Vegas, and Fallout 76 across various platforms.
With its blend of grim reality and distinct humour, Fallout has resonated well with audiences, securing its renewal for a second season. Fans of the series can enjoy the complete first season on Amazon Prime Video.