Robot

A robot is a machine that is capable of autonomously completing tasks. Depending upon the robot, these tasks may be simple or complex and may require little human intervention or complete oversight.

In the Fallout universe, robots had been constructed for many purposes, and many examples survived long enough to be a factor post-War.

Robots had been constructed by pre-War society to fill all niches and occupations. From general-purpose utility droids to full-fledged military battle machines, robots could be found in almost any environment and function. Some of the robots in the Fallout universe will attack immediately but some will aid in battle or remain ambivalent.

Background
At the time of the Great War, robots were just making their appearance in the average suburban household, but the military still had the largest number of active robots. The robots that are still running are found in isolated former military bases or ones that have been restored by settlements with the sophisticated technology needed to keep them running.

Characteristics
Typically, robots are equipped with a basic programming structure that dictates behavior and priorities. In most cases, these rules are predetermined, and there's little the player character can do to influence them. Some robots also have distinct personalities. Many robobrains, when fighting will say things like "They could have programmed me to love, to forgive; but noooooo," or "Please believe me when I say I'm not enjoying this." Robots can even exhibit finicky personalities. One such Mister Gutsy Sergeant RL-3 will dislike anyone without neutral Karma.

Interactions with the player character
While some robots in the Fallout universe are peaceful, most are following centuries-old programming—or newer programming—that classifies the player character as a threat. To that end, effective anti-robot combat strategies are a must.

Most robots are highly resistant to damage from conventional weapons. Bullets do not generally affect robots as severely as they do their organic masters, and militarized robots can generally shrug off grenade shrapnel. However, like all electronics, robots are vulnerable to the effects of an EMP, making pulse weapons the ideal choice for disabling a robotic enemy.

Pulse grenades, pulse mines, and 12 gauge EMP shells are ideal for disabling a robot quickly, and though these munitions are typically expensive, they are much more efficient in a cost-for-effect frame of mind. Explosive weapons like missile launchers or miniature nuclear weapons are effective, but more costly to use against robots.

Player characters with sufficient Repair skills, or certain perks can disable inattentive robots, while those with sufficient Science skills can often find control terminals that can shut down or reconfigure patrolling mechanical guards.