Mutations

A mutation is an alteration in the nucleotide sequence of the genome of an organism, virus, or chromosomes. Mutations can result from natural errors during DNA or viral replication or repair, or exposure to external agents such as radiation or toxic waste. Mutations may also result from insertion or deletion of segments of DNA due to mobile genetic elements.

The amount of radiation and biochemical agents released during, before, and after the Great War led to major changes in the biosphere. New species of both flora and fauna being created almost overnight, the impact of these spices combined with the latent contaminants impacting where and when life could grown and heal.

The Great War


The amount of radiation and biochemical agents released during, before, and after the Great War has led to major changes in the biosphere, on top of the devastating climate changes that followed in the wake of civilization's march to nuclear devastation. Its presence has induced widespread mutations in flora and fauna, leading to the emergence of giant versions of regular species. The radiation-induced mutation is behind many of the staples of post-War United States, such as radscorpions, geckos, spore plants, and brahmin.

Absorption, decay, and diversification
The presence of such mutations induced widespread developments in flora and fauna, leading to amongst other divergencies, the emergence of giant versions of regular species, such as radscorpions, geckos, and brahmin. Another example would be the mirelurks of New England, originating from the Commonwealth these crustaceans are a result of the region's widespread environmental pollution and devastation. Humans were not universally immune to such developments.



Some humans may also become mutated by radioactive exposure. Although most will die after exposure, a combination of factors can cause them to become ghouls, humans who resemble walking corpses and have extended lifespans. Humans can also be born with inherent radiation resistance, if not immunity. They are immune to the negative effects of radiation. A majority of ghouls are little more than shambling corpses, while a minority retain their faculties. Ghouls have a chance to become a glowing one or a glowing feral due to the accumulation of radioactive poisoning, subsequently emitting radiation and lacking body heat. Most mutated lifeforms are similarly immune to radiation but may become "glowing" by accumulating exposure, with a distinct green glow accompanying them, together with a radioactive "cloak" that poisons their surroundings.

Another albeit not as widespread diversification was the genetic altering of creatures. Some, like the spore plants were created for unknown purposes, while others were being developed as a means of food production.

Non-game sources
