Fallout 76 preorder guide: Power Armor Edition, bonuses, release date

Fallout 76 is an all-new direction for Bethesda's post-apocalyptic franchise, set to offer a fresh multiplayer sandbox while embracing its role-playing roots. Exploring the world of post-war West Virginia, the game brings together series staples, with the emergent nature of an ever-changing shared-world. The game could be a major hit, sitting among the most anticipated releases this fall.

Fallout 76 is now available for preorder, securing access to the game for its release in the coming months. We've broken down every announced edition to help decide which is best for you.

Fallout 76: Everything We Know

Fallout 76 release date

Fallout 76 is currently slated to release on November 14, 2018, for Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and Windows PCs. An opportunity to experience a slice of its world will also arise with a pre-release B.E.T.A. (Break It Early Test Application) test, although Bethesda is yet to announce launch details. Xbox One owners are also being promised early access to the test.

Fallout 76 preorder bonuses

While game publishers often spread preorder bonuses between retailers, Fallout 76 preorders guarantee access to the beta across all major stores. Common among big upcoming titles, these tests are an ideal opportunity to squash issues before release. And being the first online Fallout title, a large pool of players is ideal for scaling its networking technologies. Expect it to feature a small pool of content, providing a first taste of the West Virginian wasteland. Make sure to check out our Fallout 76 beta guide for further details on its contents, ways to gain access, and its expected release date.

How to play the Fallout 76 beta

If you're looking to preorder Fallout 76 ahead of release, there are also multiple variants of the game available to purchase. While the standard version is recommended for average gamers, diehard franchise fans can pick up premium editions. Below we've wrapped up every edition of the game, its contents, and how much it'll set you back.

Fallout 76 Standard Edition (Game Disc)

The main way to play Fallout 76 is the standard edition, which provides access to the base game on Xbox One, PlayStation 4 or Windows PC.

By purchasing this version, you'll be getting nearly all content available at launch with guaranteed free updates going forward. Although high-tier premium editions are also available, this variant should be suitable for most players. All video game retailers are expected to stock this copy worldwide.

The Fallout 76 Standard Edition game disc currently retails for $59.99 across all platforms.

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Fallout 76 Standard Edition (Digital Game Code)

A digital variant of Fallout 76 is also available, which provides a license to download Fallout 76 online.

Purchases made directly through the Xbox One Microsoft Store, PlayStation Store, and Bethesda PC eShop tie the game to your account for release. Alternatively, third-party retailers are distributing pre-paid codes for redemption on these platforms. This will provide the opportunity to pre-download the game and play instantaneously upon release.

The Fallout 76 Standard Edition for digital platforms currently retails for $59.99 across all platforms.

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Fallout 76 Tricentennial Edition (Game Disc)

If you're looking for the premium Fallout 76 experience, the game's Tricentennial Edition could be for you.

Based on the tricentennial celebrations seen in Vault 76, stand out in the wasteland with exclusive cosmetics. Among its contents is Tricentennial Power Armor customization for the T-51, T-45, T-60, and X-01 Power Armors, and matching skins for the 10MM Pistol, Hatchet, and Laser Rifle. Other bonuses include a Vault Boy Mascot head, an Uncle Sam outfit, an emote, workshop posters, and a photo frame. Alongside the game disc, you'll receive a redeemable code for these items.

This edition of Fallout 76 is priced at $79.99 across Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PC.

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Fallout 76 Tricentennial Edition (Digital Game Code)

Like its physical variant, the Fallout 76 Tricentennial Edition digital game provides access to the base package alongside exclusive content.

With cosmetic skins provided as bonuses, purchasing digitally doesn't affect the Tricentennial Edition's contents. Similar conditions to other digital games apply here, including an instant license or redeemable code dependent on the retailer. This version also allows for pre-downloading the game and playing instantly upon release.

The Fallout 76 Tricentennial Edition for digital platforms currently retails for $79.99 across all systems.

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Fallout 76 Power Armor Edition

Fallout 76's Power Armor Edition is already among this year's most coveted gaming collectibles, packing a crate of exclusive gear.

The centerpiece of the Power Armor Edition is its 1:1 replica of the iconic T-51 Power Armor helmet, built using game files in collaboration with Bethesda. Not only is it wearable – it has a functional voice modulator speaker, LED headlamp, and V.A.T.S. sound effect. Other contents of this edition are a glow-in-the-dark world map, 24 figurines, and all the bonuses of the Tricentennial Edition.

The Fallout 76 Power Armor edition is currently impossible to find, with its $199.99 preorders depleted worldwide. We've seen multiple retailers release new batches in the weeks following the initial preorder wave, so keep checking back on this page for updates.

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Fallout 76 and Replica Pipboy Construction Kit

This isn't technically an edition of the game, but brings together Fallout 76 and a Pip-Boy Construction Kit into a single package. After Fallout 76 Power Armor Edition allocations quickly depleted, this is an ideal alternative for collectors who missed out.

Inside this bundle you'll receive a Fallout 76 Standard Edition disc, granting access to the base game and future updates. However, the main attraction is the highly-detailed, wearable Fallout 76 Pip-Boy 2000 Mk VI replica, using over 100 parts crafted with help from Bethesda. You'll be working with a big kit, though the included step-by-step booklet should make this easy for anyone.

Priced at $204.99 exclusively at GameStop, this offers a small saving over buying the items separately.

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Matt Brown

Matt Brown was formerly a Windows Central's Senior Editor, Xbox & PC, at Future. Following over seven years of professional consumer technology and gaming coverage, he’s focused on the world of Microsoft's gaming efforts. You can follow him on Twitter @mattjbrown.