*UPDATE*

Bethesda confirmed that card packs will only be obtainable through in game progress, and that all micro-transactions will be cosmetic only. While it is disappointing that this is confirmation of micro-transactions, it is a relief that they won’t be tied to character progression at least.

Original Story –

Quakecon had even more to reveal to us today as Todd Howard revealed more about character progression in Fallout 76. The team behind the game explains the new card-based perk system for S.P.E.C.I.A.L. While the character progression seems in-depth enough, the card pack system introduced today sounds like Bethesda’s spin on loot boxes.

Leveling up in the game gives players one point to add to any one of their S.P.E.C.I.A.L. abilities. Every point in each ability is part of a pool of points, and cards with assigned point values are picked in each category. Each card has its own perk, and cards can be upgraded to be more powerful with a higher point cost.

Every 6 levels players unlock a card pack containing new cards, and sometimes including a rare card. These cards are used like normal cards, but there was no mention of these being purchasable. This sounds like it will be Bethesda’s cash grab loot boxes in the game, but we will have to wait a little while longer to find out.