Fallout 3: Or How I Learned To Stop Worrying & Love RPGs

[JediMB]

It never really forced you onto the path, though. My first character arrived in New Vegas at level 7, having gone north directly after clearing Primm. It only took a little patience and judicious use of binoculars to sneak past.

Yeah, and my most recent character made it to New Vegas at level 1. Wanted to get a few implants before hitting level 2.

Plus, the faction options you get once you make it to New Vegas, and the various ways you can resolve your personal story, really push the game far beyond Fallout 3.