Fallout 3 Perks

In Fallout 3, you will gain perks every level, as opposed to every three levels like in previous games. Also, unlike previous games, traits that gave you both bonuses and penalties at the same time are no longer in the game. Instead, some of them (like Bloody Mess) were changed into perks.

In Fallout 3 a Perk's S.P.E.C.I.A.L. requirements will not be met by equipping items, or using drugs.

Regular perks
(Note: These perks are gained by leveling, some quest give you perks as well.) Important Note: Codes can be used by opening the console in the PC version and using the following commands: player.removeperk [perk code] player.addperk [perk code] Replace [perk code] with the code listed for the desired perk. For ranked perks, repeat the process until the desired rank is reached. codes in parenthesis "" are for girls, if the character already has the perk, adding the code will show nothing on the console.

Quest perks
You can get these perks as a reward for quests.

Important note about quest perk codes: Trying to add them before doing the quest required may cause game to crash or corrupt.

DLC perks
These perks will be added through downloadable content packs. it is not yet known whether they will be gained on level-up or through quests.

Notes and Tips

 * Consider what kind of character you want to build and develop. Think ahead.
 * Some perks work great when combined, others have requisites that need to be met before they can become available for selection.
 * In the context of Fallout 3's game design, maximum proficiency in any Skill is 100% and maximum score in SPECIAL is a 10 in any one attribute; it is strongly advised to be mindful of that limit often.
 * You do NOT get additional bonuses above 100% in any of your Skills and a level 10 in any of your SPECIAL scores; perks won't add anything beyond that, either!

For a subjective view on some perks, see the Discussion Page.