Fable is a series of quirky fantasy RPGs where players can choose a “good” or “evil” path, known for its dark humor.
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Story & Themes
The Fable series takes place in a medieval (with elements of the Enlightenment and Industrial eras) fantasy setting called Albion. Some have likened the atmosphere to Terry Pratchet's novels. Bright, a bit cartoonish, and riddled with tongue-and-cheek humor, the Fable world is unusually comical for an RPG of its nature.
Fable III follows the series' basic formula of controlling a "Hero" who rises to power while navigating various moral choices, though players may choose the Hero's gender. Players may also buy the deeds to houses and shops in order to make money, take odd jobs, and start a family.
Save Points
The games save automatically at certain points (particularly after traveling).
Heads Up!
Violence As a kid, you can bully younger kids (you also have the option of rescuing them from other bullies), but adults will get upset at you. The guards will track you down and apprehend you. This theme continues as you grow up; choosing the evil path will make people angry.
While the violence in the series isn't particularly graphic, players may choose to hurt children and animals if they are embarking on the evil path.
Sex & Nudity It is possible to marry and have sex with a partner, though the “sex scene” is simply a fade-to-black with bedroom noises—grunting and moaning, springs creaking—in the background. Nothing explicit is depicted. However, in Fable II and III characters can contract STDs if they do not use protection, and may also have children.
Prostitution is present in all three games. Players, if taking the evil path, may buy a brothel and use it as a source of income, or in Fable III turn a local orphanage into a brothel. If taking the good path, players can choose to free the workers, and in Fable III, turn the orphanage into a boarding school.
One character, Reever, is implied to be sexually deviant (there are chains and handcuffs in his bedchambers, and defaced posters around the city say as much as well).
In summary, although sex is present in the Fable games, it is non-explicit, extramarital sex will generally be considered an “evil” trait, and there are consequences to failing to use protection.
Strong Language Strong language is present, including some gendered slurs. There is also a fair amount of crude, tongue-in-cheek humor.
Substance Use Characters do consume alcohol.
Online Community
Players can choose to play online with another Hero, but it is considered an extra, and not integral to the main gameplay.
Conversation Starters
- Were you ever uncomfortable with some of the evil actions your character could take? If not, why?
- Do you think Fable’s depictions of relationships is in any way realistic? All you have to do to make people fall in love with you is give them presents and make them laugh—might this be a problematic concept?
- Real life isn’t as black and white as the “good” and “evil” paths in Fable. Is there a way that the games might have been more realistic, or do you prefer knowing whether you’re doing the right thing?
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