Exploring the Horrors and Secrets of Vault 22: A Guide to the Fungal Wasteland

Setting the Scene: Location and Initial Impressions

The Mojave Wasteland, a harsh landscape scarred by nuclear fire, offers a tapestry of dangers and wonders. Within this desolate realm, the remnants of a bygone era hold secrets both horrifying and fascinating. Among the most intriguing and perilous locations in *Fallout: New Vegas* is Vault 22, a place where experimentation went catastrophically wrong, leaving behind a legacy of overgrown terrors and unsettling mysteries.

Vaults, those underground shelters crafted by Vault-Tec Corporation, are a cornerstone of the *Fallout* universe. Constructed under the guise of protecting the populace from nuclear war, these vaults served as the setting for often twisted social and scientific experiments. Many inhabitants were kept unaware of the true intentions behind their confinement. Vault 22, in particular, stands out as a chilling example of how even the best-laid plans can go terribly astray.

The promise of refuge from the nuclear fallout and the supposed benefits of Vault-Tec are immediately broken upon entering Vault 22. The air hangs thick with an eerie green hue, a suffocating testament to the bio-engineered experiment that devoured the inhabitants. The very structure of the Vault, once a haven, has been transformed into a suffocating labyrinth of decaying metal and rampant plant life.

The task ahead for any wanderer who enters Vault 22 is nothing short of survival. You are not just exploring an abandoned vault; you are navigating a biological war zone. The dangers within are multifaceted.

Vault 22 is located in the southeastern region of the Mojave Wasteland, just west of the NCR Correctional Facility. Finding it presents a challenge in itself, hidden among a relatively barren and unremarkable terrain. Yet, the sight of the Vault’s dilapidated entrance is immediately imposing. Overgrown with vegetation, the metal door itself is twisted and cracked, offering an early glimpse into the chaos that lies within. The air around the entrance hums with an unnatural stillness, heavy with the scent of spores and decay.

Upon stepping inside, the contrast between the outside world and the interior of Vault 22 is startling. The familiar harshness of the desert gives way to a chilling humidity. Sunlight struggles to penetrate the dense canopy of mutated plant life that has choked the Vault’s corridors and chambers. The once-organized hallways are now pathways through a twisted and claustrophobic jungle. The visual impact is immediate, establishing the scene as a place not of safety, but of constant threat. The sense of foreboding is palpable. The air itself seems to hold its breath, waiting to unleash its horrors.

The Flora and Fauna of Vault 22: A Fungal Nightmare

Vault 22’s unique ecosystem is defined by its aggressive and mutated flora. These plants are not mere decorations; they are the dominant species. The most visible threats are the spore carriers, grotesque humanoid creatures covered in fungal growths that release clouds of toxic spores. Their presence alone forces players to constantly evaluate their air quality, and a prolonged exposure to the spores can lead to severe poisoning.

The vault’s flora boasts various other forms. Some resemble deadly vines that entangle and poison, while others emit hallucinogenic vapors to confuse any intruders. The environment dictates every step you take, as a misstep can lead you into a deadly ambush. Dealing with them requires a combination of caution and combat skill.

Beyond the plants, Vault 22 hosts several forms of mutated fauna. Giant mantises, their exoskeletons hardened by radiation, lurk in the shadows, ready to strike at any moment. They hunt along the winding hallways, making the pursuit of supplies and exploration much more dangerous.

Survival requires a deep understanding of this new world and a proper arsenal. Gas masks become essential, and powerful weapons are necessary. Effective tactics include using cover, employing explosives to clear areas, and carefully scanning the environment for hidden threats. Each encounter is a test of resilience and foresight.

The History and Experimentation of Vault 22

Vault 22’s original purpose was agricultural research. The Vault-Tec Corporation intended it as a place to develop advanced methods of food production. The idea was noble, and the early days saw scientists and volunteers diligently working to cultivate various plant species within the controlled environment. Their goal was to find methods to feed the wasteland.

However, this initial vision was quickly overshadowed by unforeseen consequences. The scientists began to experiment with radical genetic modifications, pushing the boundaries of plant engineering. They created new strains of crops, enhancing growth rates and resistance to disease. Yet, they also unleashed a far more dangerous force. These experiments ultimately gave rise to the catastrophic fungal growths.

The Vault’s downfall was a slow and agonizing process. The enhanced plants began to spread out of control, consuming the Vault’s infrastructure. The scientists, increasingly isolated, became obsessed with their work, ignoring the obvious dangers. The mutated plants, driven by a primal need to consume, then turned on the people.

Key figures like Dr. Elizabeth Keely, a scientist deeply involved in the plant experiments, left behind records documenting their tragic experiments and the horrors that unfolded. Discovering these journals provides crucial insight into the Vault’s downfall. Through the fragmented entries, you slowly piece together the grim truth. The plants did not merely take over; they became the embodiment of an experiment gone wrong, turning the very environment into a weapon.

The history of Vault 22 serves as a stark warning. The dangers of unchecked scientific ambition, the importance of ethical considerations, and the often-unforeseen consequences of playing God are all central to the narrative.

Characters and Quests within Vault 22

Within the overgrown labyrinth of Vault 22, you might encounter survivors, some who may hold important information or offer quests. Perhaps the most prominent is Dr. Elizabeth Keely, whose fate is intertwined with the plants. You may find her journal entries scattered throughout the vaults, or she might have survived in the deepest parts of the Vault. The player’s choice will determine the survival and outcome.

The quests related to Vault 22 often involve exploring the deeper chambers, discovering the secrets behind the experiments, and ultimately deciding how to handle the remaining threats. These missions serve as critical steps through Vault 22’s narrative, granting the player choices that decide the fate of the last living inhabitants.

Loot and Valuable Items

Vault 22 offers a wealth of resources. Exploring the Vault to its deepest parts provides many benefits for the player’s survival. It offers unique weapons, valuable crafting components, and a vast array of supplies.

The most valuable loot in Vault 22 includes:

• Unique weapons, such as the “Incinerator” a powerful flamethrower that can be found within the Vault.
• Research Data: Collecting research data from the scientists and from Keely’s terminal is useful for understanding the vault’s history.
• Rare plant components: useful for creating medical items and other consumables.
• Rare armor pieces: The hostile environment can put players at risk, but finding protective gear is always a boon.

Careful exploration is essential. The Vault’s layout can be disorienting, and many treasures are guarded. Players must also be mindful of the numerous traps and ambushes laid by the hostile plant life.

Gameplay Tips and Strategies

Vault 22 demands careful planning. The environment, the creatures, and the history all impact the player’s survival within the vault.

• **Preparation is key:** Acquire a gas mask to protect against spore inhalation. Bring anti-radiation medicine.
• **Character build:** Having high skills in science and medicine can offer advantages.
• **Use Cover:** Utilizing the Vault’s structural elements to hide from spore carriers and mantises, and avoid close quarters combat.
• **Scout Ahead:** Carefully scan the environment for traps, hidden enemies, and resources.
• **Manage Resources:** Conserving ammunition and medicine is crucial.

The Lore and Deeper Themes

Vault 22 is a chilling commentary on the dangers of scientific hubris and unchecked experimentation. It reflects the fragility of life and the potential consequences of manipulating nature without a full understanding of the potential repercussions.

The Vault’s story also speaks to the themes of environmental disaster. The uncontrolled spread of the plant life is a direct result of human intervention, illustrating the devastating power of unchecked consequences.

Vault 22’s place in the broader *Fallout* universe deepens our understanding of the Vault experiment. It highlights the underlying themes of social control and the moral ambiguities surrounding the pre-war era.

Conclusion

Vault 22 stands as a haunting testament to the darker side of scientific progress, a chilling reminder of the dangers of hubris and the devastating consequences of tampering with nature. Its unique blend of environmental storytelling, challenging combat, and a rich and engaging narrative makes it a compelling and memorable location.

Optional Reading

• The Fallout Wiki (Fandom): Provides detailed information on the Vault 22 and the world of Fallout.

Vault 22 remains an unforgettable experience. Its challenges and mysteries guarantee it as a location that stays with the player long after they have emerged from the fungal wasteland.