Is it necessary to have played Fallout 1 and 2 to understand Fallout 3?

I have been wanting to play Fallout 3 for a long time now but I don't like playing sequels to games which I haven't played. I just want to know if you have to... Or if you'll get more out of Fallout 3 if you have played 1 and 2.Is it necessary to have played Fallout 1 and 2 to understand Fallout 3?
Not really, no. You'll miss some inside jokes and references to the previous games, but the storyline is great and you should be able to follow it just fine. It is a most excellent game :)
Their are a few references from previous fallout games. Like the story of how the Brother Hood of Steel went to the East Coast. Plus the ending of Fallout and The ending of "Returning to Homefront".



Other then that it's not really based on the previous 2 Fallout games. I can prove it. They are based on the Western US and Fallout 3 is set on the Eastern US.Is it necessary to have played Fallout 1 and 2 to understand Fallout 3?
Not really

I borrowed fallout 3 from my brother, and I never played the other ones. I fell in love with the game, and I follow the storyline just find. Of course Ive never played the others, so I dont know what they are like, but I dont feel like im missing out on anything. There doesnt seem like theres important info thats being left out. It feels like a brand new game to me. All the characters explain enverything well.

cant wait for new vegas!! :)
Nope, I never played fallout 1 or 2 so I just randomly bought Fallout 3. I understood everything including the jokes and stuff. If you need help in the game, go to borders and buy a Fallout 3 guide.Is it necessary to have played Fallout 1 and 2 to understand Fallout 3?
it's not neccesary but they give you more info from game to game