Review: Fallout Season 2, Episode 7 – A Thrilling Continuation

Fallout Season 2, Episode 7, titled “The Handoff,” continues to weave its intricate narrative, available for streaming on Prime Video. In this episode, the character Diane Welch, portrayed by Martha Kelly, emerges as a pivotal figure in the series. Her connection to Cooper and the revelations regarding her role significantly impact the storyline.
Diane Welch’s Role and Revelations
Diane’s unexpected involvement as Cooper’s access to the President of the United States is a noteworthy twist. This episode also reveals her severed head functioning as part of Hank’s brainwashing technology, raising numerous questions about her backstory and purpose.
- Diane Welch as Cooper’s link to the President.
- Her severed head is a key component in brainwashing tech.
- Conversations around her anti-corporation stance deepen the intrigue.
The Past Meets the Present
The episode highlights Fallout’s continued reliance on characters from the past. In this season, several characters, including Diane and Vault 32’s Overseer, Steph, have ties to pre-apocalyptic history. Such narrative choices, while engaging, may begin to dilute the uniqueness of existing characters, like The Ghoul.
Steph’s backstory is particularly compelling. As a Canadian citizen, her perspective during the U.S. annexation in Fallout’s alternate timeline enhances the narrative’s depth. This historical context enriches her character, juxtaposing her past with the current chaos in the wasteland.
Key Character Dynamics and Plot Developments
Steph’s interactions and her coercion of another character, Betty, signal important plot developments aligning with existing storylines. Their connection could lead to significant changes in the vault dynamics, particularly regarding the water supply, which hints at future conflicts.
- Steph’s connection to other pivotal characters enhances the complexity of the story.
- The narrative foreshadows potential consequences tied to the water supply storyline.
Factionalism and Ethical Dilemmas
The episode explores themes of factionalism through dialogues between Hank and Lucy. Their discussions highlight the moral complexities of decisions regarding different factions, an echo of core themes within the Fallout franchise.
Lucy’s struggle with her ethical stance regarding the use of brainwashing techniques raises questions about the nature of violence and peace. This moral conflict adds layers to her character, illustrating the broader thematic concerns of the series.
Critical Moments in the Wasteland
Above ground, the team consisting of Maximus, Thaddeus, and The Ghoul embarks on a pivotal mission in New Vegas. Maximus’s acquisition of NCR power armor symbolizes his character development and resolve to choose the right path.
Although the anticipated battle with deathclaws may not meet fan expectations, the episode compensates with a climactic moment involving Mr. House’s terminal. This revelation could set the stage for internet discussions about the canon of Fallout lore and how the show aligns with the game’s history.
Looking Ahead to the Season Finale
As Fallout Season 2 nears its conclusion, audience expectations are high. The interconnectedness of the characters and the looming conflicts promise an engaging finale. Viewers look forward to the unfolding mysteries and rich storytelling that have become hallmarks of the series.




