How to Find Vault 81 in Fallout 4 – Vault 81 is one of the most unique and interesting vaults in Fallout 4, providing players with opportunities for rare loot, quests, and an unusual community of vault dwellers. However, finding Vault 81’s location can be tricky if you’re unfamiliar with the Commonwealth wasteland. In this guide, we’ll explore where to find Vault 81, what to expect inside, and why it’s worth your time to explore it thoroughly.

1. What is Vault 81 in Fallout 4?

Fallout 4 is filled with various vaults that hold unique backstories and offer their own gameplay experiences. Vault 81, unlike many other vaults, is still functional and inhabited by survivors who have managed to keep it operational since the bombs dropped. Unlike the ruins and horrors of other vaults, Vault 81 has developed a self-sustaining community. The residents are wary of outsiders but are still open to interactions with those they deem trustworthy.

Vault 81 also houses some intriguing secrets and quests, making it a fan favorite among players. From its engaging quests to rare items, exploring Vault 81 offers a refreshing change from the usual apocalyptic wasteland.

2. Where is Vault 81 Located?

Vault 81 is located in the Commonwealth area, west of Diamond City and just south of the Charles River. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to find it:

1. Start from Diamond City: If you’re familiar with Diamond City’s location, start there and head west. Vault 81 is about a quick walk from the city.
2. Look for the Charles River: Travel south along the river’s edge until you notice a large hill. Vault 81 is nestled on this hill, with a modest entrance that could be easy to miss if you aren’t looking closely.
3. Check the Map Coordinates: On your Pip-Boy map, Vault 81 is located near the coordinates approximately at X: -11.6, Y: 13.6. Once you’re nearby, look for a small shack that marks the vault’s entrance.

3. Entering Vault 81 – The Cost and Requirements

While most vaults in Fallout 4 are either abandoned or have become hostile, Vault 81 is a functioning community. However, gaining access requires a bit of effort and resources. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Be Ready to Pay: Upon reaching Vault 81, you’ll encounter a guard at the door who requires an “entrance fee.” To enter, you’ll need to provide 3 Fusion Cores as a payment. Fusion Cores are valuable in the game, powering Power Armor and providing crucial boosts, so decide carefully if it’s worth the entry.
2. Alternative Access: If you don’t have Fusion Cores, you might still gain entry if you complete certain quests around the Commonwealth and build a good reputation. Sometimes, characters like Piper and Nick Valentine can provide helpful dialogue options that will let you bypass this fee.
3. Gain Entry to the Community: Once you hand over the Fusion Cores (or meet the requirements for an alternative entry), the vault’s security will let you in, where you can begin exploring the halls and meeting its residents.

4. What to Expect Inside Vault 81

Vault 81 is home to a mix of friendly NPCs and unique quests, giving it a warm, community vibe. Here’s what you can expect inside:

1. Friendly NPCs and Quest Opportunities: The residents of Vault 81 are somewhat cautious, but they’re not hostile. You’ll meet characters like Dr. Forsythe, Austin Engill, and Curie, an intriguing robotic character with an intriguing backstory. Talking with these characters unlocks several quests.
2. Quests to Unlock: One of the most notable quests you can start here is “Hole in the Wall,” which involves exploring a hidden part of the vault where a dark secret is hidden. This quest not only offers excellent loot but also reveals the true purpose of Vault 81 as part of Vault-Tec’s experiments.
3. Companion Opportunity – Curie: Curie is a friendly and highly intelligent robot located in Vault 81, and after certain quests, she can even become a potential companion. Curie has an interesting story arc that includes some surprising developments and unique dialogue, making her a favorite among fans.
4. Medical Bay: The vault has a medical bay where players can receive health services, which can be handy in survival mode. The doctor inside, Dr. Forsythe, offers a variety of medical treatments, and helping him with his tasks could yield rewards.

5. Vault 81 Secrets and Easter Eggs

Vault 81 is packed with hidden secrets that make exploring every corner worthwhile:

1. Secret Research Wing: As you progress through the “Hole in the Wall” quest, you’ll discover a hidden research wing where Vault-Tec conducted unauthorized experiments. This area contains some rare loot, including medical supplies and unique items that aren’t available elsewhere in the game.
2. Rare Weapon: The Syringer: One of the unique weapons you can acquire in Vault 81 is The Syringer. This weapon allows players to craft and shoot custom syringes with different effects on enemies, making it a valuable and fun addition to your arsenal.
3. Mole Rat Disease: During your exploration, you may encounter mole rats carrying a disease. Be cautious, as contracting the disease will give your character a permanent 10-point health reduction. However, if you complete the “Hole in the Wall” quest without taking any hits from infected mole rats, you can avoid this debuff.

6. Tips for Making the Most of Vault 81

Vault 81 offers players a wealth of experiences and items, so here are a few tips to maximize your visit:

1. Bring Extra Fusion Cores: Since the entry fee requires Fusion Cores, make sure to bring extra if you can, especially if you rely on Power Armor. You don’t want to sacrifice your last few cores just to get in.
2. Prepare for Combat: Although the vault itself isn’t hostile, the “Hole in the Wall” quest involves fighting some mole rats and other threats. Ensure you have enough ammo, healing items, and gear to handle these encounters.
3. Take the Curie Companion Quest: Curie offers a unique perspective on the Commonwealth, and her personal quest leads to fascinating storyline developments. Her presence also adds healing abilities, which can be a lifesaver.
4. Consider the Mole Rat Disease Risk: If you’re playing on higher difficulty levels, avoid contact with the mole rats to prevent contracting the disease. This requires quick reflexes and caution, but it’s well worth the effort.

7. Final Thoughts on Vault 81

Vault 81 is one of Fallout 4’s best-hidden treasures, offering a mix of humanity and mystery that captures the game’s storytelling style. The residents are a rare example of a functioning community in the wasteland, providing a glimpse of what life could have been like without total chaos. The unique quests, rare loot, and memorable characters like Curie make this vault a must-visit.

By following the steps and tips in this guide, you’ll have no trouble finding and exploring Vault 81. Take your time, enjoy the storyline, and remember that sometimes the Commonwealth holds pleasant surprises in its depths. Happy exploring, and may your journey through Vault 81 add an exciting chapter to your Fallout 4 experience!