This Machine: A Retrospective on Fallout: New Vegas’ Iconic Battle Rifle

Introduction

Few weapons in Fallout: New Vegas resonate with players quite like “This Machine.” The first time you hear that distinctive ping echoing across the Mojave Wasteland after ejecting an empty clip, you know you’ve stumbled upon something special. More than just another firearm, “This Machine” is a symbol. It’s a reminder of a bygone era, a testament to American ingenuity, and a potent tool for survival in a world gone mad. This isn’t just a gun; it’s a statement.

This unique battle rifle stands out from the crowded arsenal of Fallout: New Vegas due to its distinct design, powerful performance, and unmistakable sound. Its sleek, wood-furnished frame and satisfying report immediately set it apart. But beyond its aesthetic appeal and gameplay prowess, “This Machine” possesses a deeper significance, woven into the fabric of the game’s world and hinting at stories both familiar and tragically lost. It is, in essence, a microcosm of Fallout itself.

This Machine is more than just a powerful weapon; its unique attributes, historical allusions, and in-game lore make it a standout and iconic piece of Fallout: New Vegas. We’ll delve into the history and performance of this remarkable weapon and why it remains an unforgettable part of the New Vegas experience.

Acquiring This Machine: A Mojave Quest

Securing This Machine is a task in itself. Unlike many high-tier weapons found randomly in the wasteland, This Machine has a specific location and a quest tied to its acquisition. Players must venture to Camp McCarran, a bustling NCR base, and interact with Contreras, a morally ambiguous arms dealer.

The acquisition of this battle rifle is tied to a questline involving smuggling and shady dealings. It requires some degree of moral flexibility, as you will have to complete tasks for Contreras that might be considered ethically questionable. However, the payoff is undoubtedly worth it for those seeking a reliable and powerful weapon. Completing the required tasks will provide players access to purchase this remarkable rifle from Contreras. The cost may vary depending on the player’s barter skill.

The quest to obtain this battle rifle adds another layer to its significance. It’s not just a weapon handed out freely; it’s earned, making it all the more rewarding when finally acquired. The struggle to gain This Machine is a microcosm of the struggles within New Vegas itself, where survival is a constant quest.

Detailed Stats and Optimal Use of This Machine

Let’s examine the cold, hard numbers behind This Machine. This battle rifle utilizes .308 ammunition, a readily available and potent round found throughout the Mojave Wasteland. Its damage output is impressive, making it effective against a wide range of enemies, from lowly Geckos to heavily armored Deathclaws.

This weapon’s high critical hit chance is another strength, especially when combined with perks like “Better Criticals”. This combination can decimate even the toughest foes in a single, well-placed shot. The action points required for VATS usage are comparatively low making it ideal for players who like to use this system. The spread is very tight allowing players to engage targets effectively at longer ranges. Weighing in at a manageable weight, carrying is not much of an issue either. The magazine size is appropriate for a battle rifle and with practice, players can maximize the uptime of this magnificent rifle.

Of course, This Machine is not without its drawbacks. Like any firearm in the harsh environment of Fallout: New Vegas, it’s subject to wear and tear, requiring regular maintenance to keep it in optimal condition. The .308 ammunition is relatively heavy, so managing inventory space is important. However, the benefits outweigh the disadvantages, making This Machine a top-tier choice for many players.

Comparing it to other rifles like the Service Rifle, Hunting Rifle, or the Marksman Carbine, it consistently outperforms many others in terms of raw damage and critical hit potential. While the Gobi Campaign Scout Rifle offers unique advantages for stealth builds, the overall versatility of This Machine makes it a superior choice for general combat situations.

Modifying This Machine: Tailoring Your Weapon

The weapon modification system in Fallout: New Vegas allows players to customize This Machine to better suit their playstyle. There are modifications to improve the reliability and accuracy of this rifle.

The weapon mods add to the game by further improving the capability of This Machine. Players can personalize it to their liking.

Historical Echoes: The M1 Garand’s Legacy

The design and functionality of This Machine are directly inspired by the M1 Garand, a legendary battle rifle used by the United States military during World War II and the Korean War. The M1 Garand was renowned for its reliability, accuracy, and stopping power, becoming a symbol of American military might.

The most iconic feature of the M1 Garand, and faithfully replicated in This Machine, is the distinctive “ping” sound produced when the en bloc clip is ejected after the last round is fired. This sound became instantly recognizable to soldiers and civilians alike, marking both the end of a firefight and the need to reload. It’s a sound that evokes a powerful sense of history and nostalgia.

The inclusion of this iconic weapon in Fallout: New Vegas is more than just a nod to military history. It’s a way to connect the game’s world to our own, reminding us of the sacrifices made in the past and the enduring legacy of those who fought for freedom. This Machine is a reminder that even in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, echoes of the past can still be heard.

The Meaning Behind the Name: This Machine

The name “This Machine” is deliberately ambiguous, open to multiple interpretations. On one hand, it could be a simple, straightforward reference to the weapon itself, highlighting its functionality as a tool of war. It could also be interpreted as a more cynical commentary on the nature of conflict, portraying the rifle as just another cog in the vast, impersonal war machine.

Another interpretation is that “This Machine” is a celebration of American ingenuity and engineering. It represents the ability of humans to create powerful tools to overcome challenges, even in the face of destruction. The name can be seen as a tribute to the workers and engineers who designed and manufactured the M1 Garand, as well as a testament to the enduring power of human innovation.

Ultimately, the meaning of “This Machine” is left to the interpretation of the player. Its ambiguity is part of its appeal, allowing players to project their own values and beliefs onto the weapon.

Contreras and the Murky Morality of the Mojave

The fact that This Machine is sold by Contreras, a known black market dealer, adds another layer of complexity to its story. Contreras is not a hero; he’s a pragmatist, willing to bend the rules and exploit the chaos of the Mojave Wasteland for his own gain.

His willingness to sell such a powerful weapon raises questions about the NCR’s supply lines and the prevalence of the black market. It suggests that even in a relatively stable society like the NCR, corruption and illegal activities are rampant. This also highlights the grey morality of the game itself, where there are no easy or clean choices. Players must navigate a complex web of allegiances and moral compromises to survive and thrive.

Community Embrace: This Machine’s Enduring Appeal

The popularity of This Machine among Fallout: New Vegas players is undeniable. Forum discussions, fan wikis, and gameplay videos are filled with praise for its performance, aesthetic, and historical significance. It has become a fan favorite, often cited as one of the best weapons in the game.

One of the reasons for its popularity is its versatility. It’s effective in a wide range of combat situations, making it suitable for various playstyles. Its distinct sound and appearance also contribute to its appeal, making it a weapon that players are proud to wield.

The active modding community has further enhanced the legacy of This Machine, with numerous mods created to improve its performance, appearance, and functionality. Retexture mods give it a fresh new look, while stat tweaks balance its strengths and weaknesses. Some mods even add new animations or sound effects, further immersing players in the world of Fallout: New Vegas.

The amount of mods being created for This Machine shows the community involvement. The fact that players continue to create and share these mods is a testament to the enduring appeal of this iconic weapon.

A Timeless Classic in a Wasteland World

“This Machine” is far more than just a collection of stats and polygons; it is a symbol of a bygone era, a testament to ingenuity, and a potent tool for survival in the unforgiving world of Fallout: New Vegas. Its integration of historical elements, compelling lore, and memorable gameplay make it one of the most iconic weapons in the game.

From the moment you first hear that distinct ping, you understand that “This Machine” is something special. It’s a weapon that transcends its in-game attributes, becoming a symbol of hope and resilience in a world ravaged by war. The echoes of its history resonate throughout the Mojave Wasteland, reminding us of the past while providing us with the tools to shape the future. Will “This Machine” continue to be a favorite among players for years to come? Undoubtedly. Its legend is etched into the very fabric of Fallout: New Vegas.