Random encounter

A random encounter is a universal RPG situation. It most often occurs when the Player is traversing a distance across the world map or a dungeon, resulting in a conflict with a randomly chosen opponent. In Fallout however, random encounters are only encountered on the world map and can be as simple as a trader wishing to show you their wares, to finding a tin man who needs to be oiled...

Not every encounter is hostile. Not every dangerous encounter involves aggressively minded NPCs (such as Stampede or Dehydration encounters in Fallout). Not every encounter even has an NPC on its map (Old battle encounter). Some random encounters are unique, and happen only once during the course of the game (or not at all) - these are commonly known as Special encounters.

The kind of encounter depends on many factors. The main one is player's location on the World Map. Others may be the player character's Outdoorsman Skill, Karma level or Reputation, as well as their previous actions during the game.