VATS

The Vault-Tec Assisted Targeting System, or V.A.T.S. is the real time with pause combat system in Fallout 3, inspired partly by the ability to target specific body parts in the turn-based combat system of Fallout and Fallout 2. While using V.A.T.S., the otherwise real-time combat is paused. Various actions cost action points, and both the player and enemies can target specific body areas for attacks, inflicting specific injuries.

Unlike previous Fallout games, it is not possible to target the eyes or groin nor target any individual body parts in melee and unarmed combat.