That Gun: A Deep Dive into Fallout: New Vegas’ Iconic Pistol

Introduction

Fallout: New Vegas, the post-apocalyptic RPG from Obsidian Entertainment, holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. Its sprawling desert landscapes, compelling narrative, and intricate factions have cemented its legacy as a true classic. Amidst the vast arsenal of weapons available to the Courier, one stands out for its distinctive design and early-game usefulness: That Gun. This unassuming pistol, found nestled within the confines of Novac, has captivated players for over a decade. This article aims to delve deep into the history, stats, significance, and enduring appeal of That Gun, exploring why it remains an iconic symbol of the Mojave Wasteland. Its unique design and satisfying “ping” has made it a fan favorite and a must have for many starting their journey.

A Weapon in Novac’s Shadow

The story of That Gun begins, appropriately, in Novac, a town built around a giant dinosaur statue. Cliff Briscoe, the proprietor of the Dinky the Dinosaur gift shop, is the key to acquiring That Gun. You’ll find him behind the counter, usually trying to make a buck off tourists or sharing tales about the wasteland. That Gun is on display, a silent testament to a previous era.

The Courier has two primary methods to obtain That Gun. The simplest is to purchase it from Cliff Briscoe, provided they have enough caps. Alternatively, players with sufficient skill can attempt to pick the lock on the display case. However, failure can have consequences, angering Cliff and potentially leading to combat. Choosing whether to buy or steal it becomes one of the first moral decisions you will need to make in the Mojave wasteland.

Drawing Inspiration from the Real World

That Gun‘s origins lie in the real world, drawing inspiration from the Colt Detective Special. This snub-nosed revolver was a popular choice for law enforcement officers and private detectives seeking a concealable weapon. The developers at Obsidian Entertainment clearly drew inspiration from its compact design when crafting That Gun‘s distinctive look.

The Colt Detective Special gained popularity during the mid-20th century. Its ease of concealment and reliable firepower made it a trusted tool for those operating in the shadows. By incorporating elements of the Colt Detective Special into That Gun, the game designers created a weapon that resonates with a sense of history and intrigue. That Gun therefore feels like an old friend even if you have never used it before.

Analyzing its Performance

That Gun is a formidable weapon, especially in the early hours of Fallout: New Vegas. It deals a respectable amount of damage with each shot, making it effective against many of the creatures and enemies encountered in the starting areas. The accuracy of That Gun is particularly noteworthy, allowing players to land shots with greater consistency than other early-game options. Its critical hit chance further enhances its damage output, making it possible to quickly dispatch foes with well-placed shots.

Each shot of That Gun consumes Action Points (AP), which are essential for performing VATS attacks. While That Gun‘s AP cost is moderate, it’s important to manage AP effectively to maximize combat efficiency. Its condition degrades with use, requiring regular maintenance to prevent malfunctions and maintain its effectiveness. The weight of That Gun is relatively low, allowing players to carry it without significantly impacting their encumbrance.

Compared to other early-game pistols, such as the 9mm Pistol or the .357 Magnum Revolver, That Gun offers a compelling blend of power, accuracy, and critical hit potential. Its strengths make it a valuable asset for players who prefer a ranged combat style. The use of .357 rounds are also easily obtainable, allowing you to stock up on ammunition.

Limited Options for Customization

Fallout: New Vegas is known for its in-depth weapon modification system, allowing players to customize their firearms to suit their specific needs. Unfortunately, That Gun offers limited opportunities for modification. There are no attachments available to enhance its damage, accuracy, or other attributes. That Gun is perfect as it is, in its own way.

However, weapon maintenance remains crucial for preserving That Gun‘s performance. Regularly repairing the weapon with weapon repair kits or by visiting a vendor is essential for preventing malfunctions and maximizing its effectiveness in combat. The ability to keep the gun in tip top shape should not be underestimated.

The Stories Behind the Weapon

The origins and backstory of That Gun are shrouded in mystery, fueling speculation and intrigue among Fallout: New Vegas fans. Where did it come from? Who owned it before it ended up in Cliff Briscoe’s shop? These questions remain unanswered, inviting players to craft their own interpretations. The weapon is old but well maintained, a sign of a loving owner that is now long gone.

Some theories suggest that That Gun may have belonged to a pre-War law enforcement officer or a private investigator. Its Colt Detective Special inspiration lends credence to this idea. Others believe that the weapon may have been a trophy or a memento from a past conflict. It makes you wonder what conflicts it has seen.

That Gun‘s presence in Novac adds to the town’s already intriguing atmosphere. Novac is a place steeped in history and secrets, and That Gun fits perfectly into its narrative. It serves as a reminder of the world that was lost and the struggles of those trying to survive in the post-apocalyptic wasteland. It is a story in and of itself.

That Gun can also influence the player’s role-playing experience in Fallout: New Vegas. Some players may choose to embrace its deadly potential, using it to dominate their enemies. Others may opt for a more nuanced approach, utilizing That Gun only when necessary. This is the weapon that makes you feel like a true courier.

Why We Remember It

The enduring popularity of That Gun stems from a combination of factors. Its distinctive design, early-game usefulness, and mysterious backstory have all contributed to its iconic status. It feels just right in your hands.

Players often share their experiences with That Gun on forums and social media, recounting tales of daring escapades and narrow escapes. These stories help to perpetuate the weapon’s legend and solidify its place in Fallout: New Vegas lore. Its simple beauty has to be seen to be believed.

That Gun is often one of the first powerful weapons that players acquire in Fallout: New Vegas. This early access to a reliable firearm can significantly impact the player’s confidence and ability to tackle the challenges of the Mojave Wasteland. It gives you the feeling that anything is possible from level 1.

That Gun has become deeply ingrained in the culture of Fallout: New Vegas fandom. It’s a symbol of the game’s unique blend of action, adventure, and role-playing. The name alone is something to remember.

The early game utility of That Gun cannot be overstated. Its accuracy and damage output make it an ideal weapon for dispatching early-game threats like Geckos, Mantises, and even the occasional Powder Ganger. It allows players to progress through the main questline and explore the world with greater confidence.

A Lasting Legacy

That Gun is more than just a weapon in Fallout: New Vegas. It’s a symbol of the game’s rich lore, engaging gameplay, and enduring appeal. Its unique design, early-game usefulness, and mysterious backstory have made it an iconic part of the Mojave Wasteland. Even if you are not a pistol build, it is a weapon you must try before moving onto something else.

So, the next time you find yourself in Novac, be sure to pay a visit to Cliff Briscoe and take a look at That Gun. You might just find yourself captivated by its charm and drawn into its story. What is your experience with That Gun? Let us know below! If you like This Gun then you may like similar revolvers or those with high critical hit chances.