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.

When using V.A.T.S. against a humanoid enemy, there is generally seven different points you can target; the head, torso, left arm, right arm, currently held weapon, left leg and right leg. However, there may be other points available when facing off non-humanoid creatures.

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.