Bethesda has officially rolled out the “Ghoul Within” update for Fallout 76, marking a major milestone for the game. This update brings Season 20: Glow of the Ghoul, allowing players to transform into ghouls for the first time in Fallout history. Alongside this long-awaited feature, Bethesda has introduced new abilities, perks, balance adjustments, and quality-of-life improvements.
Become a Ghoul in Fallout 76
The biggest addition in update 1.7.18.22 is the ability to undergo Ghoulification. Players can unlock this transformation by completing the “Leap of Faith” questline, which takes them into a newly accessible area in the Savage Divide. Once transformed, ghouls gain unique perks, but the choice isn’t without consequences—some factions will become hostile, limiting access to certain content. To bypass this, players can craft disguises with the help of Jaye, a new NPC introduced in the update.
For those who change their minds, returning to a human form is possible. However, re-Ghoulifying later will cost 1,000 Atoms (approximately $10).
New Ghoul Abilities: Feral and Glow
Becoming a ghoul introduces two major mechanics that replace the standard survival system:
- Feral Meter – Instead of worrying about hunger and thirst, ghouls must manage their Feral Meter, which drains over time. Players can refill it using chems, with different stat boosts and penalties depending on its level. At high feral levels, ghouls gain increased Strength, Endurance, and HP, while a low Feral Meter drastically weakens them but boosts melee damage.
- Glow Mechanic – Ghouls no longer suffer from radiation in the same way as humans. Instead, radiation increases their maximum health and provides healing over time. The more radiation a ghoul absorbs, the stronger they become, making previously dangerous areas a source of power.
30+ New Ghoul-Exclusive Perks
Players who embrace the ghoul lifestyle gain access to over 30 new perk cards, including two Legendary Perks. These perks enhance combat effectiveness, increase radiation-based abilities, and provide additional buffs depending on Feral and Glow levels.
Season 20: Glow of the Ghoul and New Rewards
Alongside the update, Fallout 76 launches Season 20, offering ghoul-themed rewards such as:
✔ Mini Nuke Stein
✔ Goo-tub C.A.M.P. Item
✔ Ghoul Power Armor Skins
✔ New Outfits and Weapon Skins
The season runs until June, featuring special events like The Big Bloom on April 29, where players will help protect a meadow from an overgrowth invasion.
Level 50 Character Boost and Gameplay Adjustments
For new and returning players, Bethesda has introduced a Level 50 Character Boost for 1,500 Atoms (around $15). This feature allows instant access to weapons, perks, and key map markers, helping players dive straight into endgame content.
The update also includes major weapon balancing changes, improving pistols and adjusting perk mechanics. Additionally, the patch fixes various bugs, including UI, accessibility, and armor issues.
Is It Worth Turning Into a Ghoul?
While the ghoul transformation brings exciting new gameplay elements, it’s not without drawbacks. Some factions treat ghouls as enemies, locking players out of specific quests unless they use disguises. Additionally, the one-time free transformation means that players who switch back to human form must pay 1,000 Atoms to go ghoul again.
For those who enjoy experimenting with new playstyles, the update offers a fresh way to experience Fallout 76. Whether you embrace your inner ghoul or remain a smooth-skin, Season 20: Glow of the Ghoul is sure to shake up the wasteland.
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