Every Fallout fan knows what a Garden Of Eden Creation Kit (G.E.C.K.) is: a case filled with seeds, fertilizer, a cold fusion power generator, and a basic replicator designed to let you begin anew and rebuild civilization after exiting one of the Vault-Tec atomic vaults.

Bethesda Software has a different G.E.C.K. in mind, as it’s the name it has given to the Fallout 3 game editor, one which the mod community knew as the Elder Scrolls Construction Set back in previous Gamebryo engine games, and one which they dearly expected, although Bethesda didn’t even know if they would release. Bethesda, due to time constraints had the editor on low priority, but in a wise move decided to release to the massive modding community that the company has attracted. Such enthusiasts will finally get to sculpt their own little slice of reality within the bleak, muddy Capital Wasteland.

The G.E.C.K. editor is not all. Aside from the free editor, Bethesda’s set to release three paid packs of downloadable content for the Xbox 360 and PC (through Games for Windows Live) versions of the game. They are as follows, according to the press release:

Operation: Anchorage. Enter a military simulation and fight in one of the greatest battles of the Fallout universe – the liberation of Anchorage, Alaska from its Chinese Communist invaders. An action-packed battle scheduled for release in January.

The Pitt. Journey to the industrial raider town called The Pitt, located in the remains of Pittsburgh. Choose your side. Scheduled for release in February.

Broken Steel. Join the ranks of the Brotherhood of Steel and rid the Capital Wasteland of the Enclave remnants once and for all. Continues the adventure past the main quest. Scheduled for release in March.

PlayStation 3 owners: Don't worry too much, I suspect there's light at the end of the (slightly longer) tunnel for you, too, per this from the press release:

"...and more downloadable content coming in February and March."

That February and March may well mean the release of the PS3 version of this DLC, as it has been left behind for now. No pricing details are available on either version for the content so far.

The news is certainly welcome for gamers who like this wonderful game, which despite its sporadic flaws is beautifully constructed and has a lot of potential; potential which is now unlocked through the G.E.C.K. and showcased through the new DLC.