February 2026 "Viva Las Vegas: The Historical References in Fallout: New Vegas" By Leslie Rivera

Intro

   When you think of Las Vegas, it’s impossible not to think of casinos and shows. So, it makes sense that its reputation makes its way into videogames like Fallout: New Vegas. Though New Vegas draws on an older version of Las Vegas. For context, Fallout: New Vegas is a game that takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where bombs were dropped sometime in 2077. The game holds a vintage feel, drawing from styles from the 1940s and 50s; it uses music, clothing, and lingo from this era of American culture.

Historical Background

     The Las Vegas we know today was born from the ambitions of Bugsy Siegel, who built the lively casino The Flamingo. Bugsy Siegel was a member of the Mob and had borrowed money to fund The Flamingo’s construction, and had thought it was wise to skim from the top. When his colleagues found out, they offered him a chance to make the money back, though still having Bugsy killed. Las Vegas of the 1940s was full of crime and mob activity; the nightlife of Las Vegas made it easy for gangsters to make money and launder money.

Comparisons

    The World of New Vegas draws a lot of inspiration from Las Vegas history and culture, and it is especially evident in the characters that inhabit the game. One such character is Benny, who is the typical slimy and charismatic gangster you would see in a mob film. His attributes and style very closely resemble those of Bugsy Siegel down to the checkered suit.

    The game also has many factions vying for power in the Nevada area. One group that the player can interact with is the Kings, whose members all bear a resemblance to Elvis Presley. They even reference parts of Presley’s songs. The Kings' appearance is a reference to Elvis impersonators who are popular in Las Vegas. (Fun Fact: You can get your wedding officiated in Vegas by an Elvis impersonator).