View source for Nuka-Cola

{{For|the pre-War company|Nuka-Cola Corporation|about=the soft drink|a list of variants available in the games|List of Nuka-Cola variants}}
{{Infobox item lore
|name         =
|image        =Nuka-Cola Corporation.png
|type         =Soft drink
|introduced   =2044<ref name="WoR tour" />
|variants     =
* [[Nuka-Cola]]
* [[Nuka Cherry]]
* [[Nuka-Grape]]
* [[Nuka-Cola Dark]]
* [[Nuka-Cola Orange]]
* [[Nuka-Cola Quantum]]
* [[Nuka-Cola Quartz]]
* [[Nuka-Cola Victory]]
* [[Nuka-Cola Wild]]
|properties   =
|country      =[[United States of America]]
}}
{{Games|FO1|FO2|FO3|FNV|FO4|FO4NW|F76|FOT|FOS}}

'''Nuka-Cola''' is the flagship product of the [[Nuka-Cola Corporation]] and one of the symbols of [[United States of America|United States]] culture. Introduced in 2044, it rapidly dominated the soft drink market, eventually becoming the most popular soda on the market and a staple of American culture. Bottled and distributed nationwide, Nuka-Cola was available in such numbers that not even two centuries after the [[Great War]] put a stop to all bottling operations, Nuka-Cola bottles can still be found in the wastelands in quantity.<ref name="SuchManyWow">[[Fallout 4 loading screen hints|''Fallout 4'' loading screen hints]]: ''"Nuka-Cola, the most popular American soda before the war, manufactured so many bottles that the drink can still be found and enjoyed now, more than 200 years later."''</ref> In the aftermath of the Great War, Nuka-Cola [[bottle cap]]s are the de facto currency in most post-war societies.<ref>[[Fallout 4 loading screen hints|''Fallout 4'' loading screen hints]]: ''"All across the United States, in the aftermath of the Great War, the bottle caps of Nuka-Cola are the most commonly used currency."''</ref>

==History==
Nuka-Cola entered the beverage market in [[Fallout timeline#2044|2044]], with the invention of the soft drink by [[John-Caleb Bradberton]] after two years of experimentation. Though strictly unhealthy (containing 120% of the recommended daily allowance of sugar), it took the [[United States of America|United States]] market by storm and within a year it could be purchased nationwide. Its popularity rapidly increased and within several years it was the most popular beverage across the globe.<ref>[[Fallout 4 loading screen hints|''Fallout 4'' loading screen hints]]: ''"Amateur chemist John-Caleb Bradberton discovered the formula for Nuka-Cola in 2044. Within a year, Nuka-Cola could be purchased across the entire United States."''</ref><ref name="SierrasBackground">[[Sierra Petrovita]]: ''"When Nuka-Cola was invented by John-Caleb Bradberton in 2044, it quickly became the world's most popular soft drink. The wonder drink soon drew a dedicated following which prompted the Nuka-Cola Corporation to release many promotional items like these. By 2067, a Nuka-Cola machine such as this rare pristine model could be found on almost every street in America. Even in today's crazy world, Nuka-Cola is still the number one choice of refreshment among Armageddon's survivors."''<br/>([[Sierra Petrovita's dialogue]])</ref> 

The constant drive to improve and innovate the formula resulted in numerous flavor variations, with the most popular ones like Cherry, Grape, and Orange released just a few years after the drink debuted.<ref name="ClassTastes">[[Fallout 4 loading screen hints#Nuka-World|''Nuka-World'' loading screen hints]]: ''"Nuka-Cola introduced fruit-flavored beverages such as Nuka-Cherry, Nuka-Grape and Nuka-Orange only a few short years after the corporation was founded. They were an instant success."''</ref> Whenever the company encountered competition, it would attempt to deal with it aggressively. Cherry and Grape variants of the Nuka-Cola were patents acquired by the company after identifying individual competitors. In other cases, the Corporation would attempt to buy out competitors, as was the case with [[Sunset Sarsaparilla]] in [[Fallout timeline#2058|2058]] and [[Vim! Pop Incorporated]] in [[Fallout timeline#2077|2077]]. Failing that, it would attempt to release a competing drink accompanied by a massive promotional campaign.<ref name="InfoT" >[[Nuka-Town grounds terminals#Nuka-World Information Terminal|Nuka-Town ground terminals; Nuka-World Informational Terminal]]</ref> After attempts to acquire Sunset Sarsaparilla failed, Nuka-Cola attempted to directly compete with it through [[Nuka-Cola Wild]] and the opening of [[Dry Rock Gulch]] at [[Nuka-World]]. Though it gained a respectable popularity in the [[Southwest Commonwealth|American Southwest]], it failed to match that of the Sarsaparilla.<ref name="WildRefLoad">[[Fallout 4 loading screen hints#Nuka-World|''Nuka-World'' loading screen hints]]: ''"Although the Nuka-Cola Corporation would never admit it, Nuka-Cola Wild was released to directly compete with Sunset Sarsaparilla after attempts to acquire that company met with failure."''</ref> 

The latest Nuka-Cola taste variant was created in October 2076, as the head of the chemical weapons program instigated by [[John Caleb-Bradberton]] reported that his team created an isotope of [[W:Strontium-90|strontium-90]] that could be reliably weaponized, as coating for [[power armor]], a custom munition for the prototypical M42 [[Fat Man]], or even an area effect weapon that could be safely deployed from something as simple as a [[Thirst Zapper]]. It could also be used "somewhat safely" in a new kind of Nuka-Cola. Bradberton ordered it to be put into production, as the [[Nuka-Cola Quantum]] (named after the isotope designation in the Beverageer's system).<ref name="BradTerminals">[[Bradberton's office terminals#10-20-2076 JCB|Bradberton's office terminals; Bradberton's Project Terminal, 10-20-2076 JCB]]</ref>

Quantum was fast-tracked through the approval process, presented as the culmination of a three year research program. To create an isotope safe for human consumption, focus groups were used to test various variants of the Quantum isotope. After numerous casualties (at least 62 test subjects died as a result of organ failure, with many more hospitalized with radiation burns; families were provided with Nuka Condolences Fruit and Cheese Packages that contained liability waivers), a safe isotope was created and the first cases of Nuka-Cola Quantum hit the market in select cities on the East Coast, like [[Boston]] and [[Washington, D.C.]].<ref>[[Nuka-Cola plant terminals#Company Announcement|Nuka-Cola plant terminals; Packing Line Terminal, Company Announcement]]</ref> 

Even after the War obliterated the parent corporation, Nuka-Cola would continue to be the most popular soft drink on the North American continent, available in almost limitless quantities. Despite being warm and flat, it holds the allegiance of many and continues to [[Addiction|addict]] [[wastelander]]s.<ref>[[Nuka-Cola]] is ubiquitous in all ''Fallout'' games.</ref><ref>[[Dugan]], [[Sierra Petrovita]] and [[Zip]] are such addicts.</ref>
==Production==
===Ingredients===
[[File:Chem Nuka-Cola.png|right|The original bottle.]]
* Carbonated water<ref name="Du1" />
* Sugar<ref name="WoR tour" /> or aspartame<ref name="Du1" />
* Caffeine<ref name="Du1" />
* Phosphoric acid<ref name="Du1" />
* Citric acid<ref name="Du1" />
* Caramel color<ref name="Du1" />
* Potassium benzoate<ref name="Du1" />
* Natural flavorings<ref name="Du1" /><ref name="Du1">[[Dugan]]: ''"{123}{}{Carbonated Water, Caramel Color, Aspartame, Phosphoric Acid, Potassium Benzoate (To Protect Taste), Natural Flavors, Citric Acid, Caffeine}"''<br/>([[DUGAN.MSG]])</ref>
<section begin="background" /><section begin="nuka" />
The unique taste of Nuka-Cola is the result of a combination of seventeen fruit essences, balanced to enhance the classic cola flavor.<ref name="ClassicTaste1">[[Fallout 4 loading screen hints#Nuka-World|''Nuka-World'' loading screen hints]]: ''"Nuka-Cola's award-winning taste is derived from a secret combination of seventeen fruit essences which are balanced to enhance, but not overwhelm, that classic cola flavor."''</ref><ref>[[Nuka-Cola formula]]</ref> The balance is precarious and minute adjustments can affect it severely. Such was the case when the freshly launched Nuka-Cola was reformulated in response to the Great Passion Fruit Famine of 2044 and consumers noticed the change in flavor.<ref name="Famine">The [[Lone Wanderer]]: ''"The taste... I could never get used to it."''<br/>[[Sierra Petrovita]]: ''"No no no! You're mistaken! The flavor is the essence of seventeen different fruits mixed in just the right proportion to give the beverage that delicious taste. In fact, in the Great Passion Fruit Famine of 2044, people actually noticed the taste difference when the flavor was changed!"''<br/>([[Sierra Petrovita's dialogue]])</ref>

Nuka-Cola contains excessive amounts of caffeine and 120% of the recommended daily value of sugar, making it decisively unhealthy for extended consumption.<ref name="WoR tour">[[World of Refreshment]] tour: ''"Welcome to the Nuka-Cola World of Refreshment, now featuring a river of Nuka-Cola Quantum! Nuka-Cola Quantum: Twice the calories, twice the carbohydrates, twice the caffeine, and twice the taste! And just look at that amazing, patented blue glow! So sit back and enjoy the ride as we take you through the Nuka-Cola World of Refreshment!''<br/>''Nuka-Cola began its journey in the year 2042 when our founder, John-Caleb Bradberton, was a budding chemist. He dreamt of a delicious soft drink that would provide energy, focus and 120% of the recommended daily value of sugar!''<br/>''It took almost two years to perfect the formula, but in late 2044, Mr. Bradberton was finally successful and Nuka-Cola was born! It quickly surpassed other, lesser beverages to become America's number-one favorite soft drink. Not one to rest on his laurels, Mr. Bradberton and his team of talented "Beverageers" continued to create new and exciting formulas.''<br/>''Out west, they enjoy regional favorites such as the classy Nuka-Cola Quartz and refreshingly patriotic Nuka-Cola Victory. Or, for those that prefer a timeless root-based beverage, they pick up a delicious Nuka-Cola Wild!''<br/>''While out here on the east coast, folks delight in the refreshment of an ice-cold Nuka-Grape, Nuka-Orange, or Nuka-Cherry. And be on the lookout for our special pre-release shipments of Nuka-Cola Quantum coming soon to your favorite grocer or restaurant!''<br/>''Hey Mom and Dad, are you ready for a night out on the town? Then pick up an ice-cold Nuka-Cola Dark and experience the most thirst-quenching way to unwind. Nuka-Cola Dark: that refreshingly familiar Nuka-Cola taste with a light alcoholic twist. {{Tooltip|35% alcohol by volume. Do not consume Nuka-Cola Dark if you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant. Do not operate motor vehicles or heavy machinery for at least 8 hours after drinking.|Very high speed disclaimer}}''<br/>''But this isn't just a ride, it's one of several operational factories actively producing Nuka-Cola. Here in the mixing area, we combine just a hint of 17 select fruit flavors to produce that unique Nuka-Cola taste.''<br/>''Here in the bottling chamber, we carefully pour each delicious liquid into our new, space-age rocket bottles! Each bottle is carbonated and then sealed with one of our signature bottle caps.''<br/>''And now for a special surprise, this is where we produce the newest member of our family, Nuka-Cola Quantum! That blue glow isn't just for show, folks! Quantum contains a top-secret additive to give you a "nuclear" boost of energy!''<br/>''On behalf of all of us at Nuka-World, we hope you've enjoyed the ride and learning more about Nuka-Cola!"''<br/>([[World of Refreshment announcer's dialogue]])</ref> To counter the negative image, it was marketed as being fortified with vitamins, minerals, and "health tonics."<ref>The [[Lone Wanderer]]: ''"Never mind. I think you've had enough sugar for one day."''<br/>[[Zip]]: ''"But Nuka-Cola's fortified with vitaminerals and health tonics! It even says so on the label! That means it's healthy for me!"''<br/>([[Zip's dialogue]])</ref> Intensive consumption can cause [[Nuka-Cola addiction]], which can lead to splitting headaches if Nuka-Cola isn't consumed on a regular basis.<ref>[[Dugan]]: "''{116}{}{It is the stuff of life . . . Well actually, if I don't drink it on an hourly basis I get a splitting headache.}''"<Br/>([[DUGAN.MSG]])</ref><section end="background" /><section end="nuka" />

===Bottling===
The iconic curved Nuka-Cola bottle was used by the company ever since its introduction in 2044. The Dazzling Blue color of the glass was popular with consumers: Market research in 2052 indicated that 86 out of 100 polled consumers chose blue as their favorite color.<ref>The [[Lone Wanderer]]: ''"Why a blue bottle if the soda is brown? That's just weird."''<br/>[[Sierra Petrovita]]: ''"Aha! That's where you're wrong! Market research done in 2052 said that the blue color was the favorite in 86 people out of 100 polled. And the particular hue of blue is Dazzling Blue, scientifically proven to be the most pleasing of all blues!"''<br/>([[Sierra Petrovita's dialogue]])</ref>

Nuka-Cola was forced to replace the curved design with a rocket-shaped bottle in 2077. It was the result of long-running litigation over patent infringement, a case that the Nuka-Cola Corporation lost. However, consumers reacted positively to the new Space Age bottle and Nuka-Cola's sales increased even further.<ref>[[Fallout 4 loading screen hints#Nuka-World|''Nuka-World'' loading screen hints]]: ''"Nuka-Cola's signature rocket-shaped bottle replaced the traditional curved bottle when a rival corporation successfully sued for patent infringement. Fortunately, the public saw the new bottle as an improvement and Nuka-Cola's sales increased."''</ref><ref name="WoR tour"></ref> 

Nuka-Cola was also distributed in soda fountains and cans, although these forms of distribution were far less popular than the iconic bottle.<ref>[[Nuka-Cola machine]]: ''"{105}{}{ skillfully dodges a can of Nuka-Cola.}"''<br/>([[Zinuke.msg]])</ref><ref>[[:File:Canned Nuka-Cola.png|Trash contains crushed, discarded cans.]]</ref>

===Distribution===
The surge in popularity led to Nuka-Cola spreading nationwide. By 2067, there was a vending machine on almost every street in America, offering regular Nuka-Cola and any of its variants.<ref name="Nuka-Cola tour" >[[Sierra Petrovita]]: ''"When Nuka-Cola was invented by John-Caleb Bradberton in 2044, it quickly became the world's most popular soft drink. The wonder drink soon drew a dedicated following which prompted the Nuka-Cola Corporation to release many promotional items like these. By 2067, a Nuka-Cola machine such as this rare pristine model could be found on almost every street in America. Even in today's crazy world, Nuka-Cola is still the number one choice of refreshment among Armageddon's survivors."''<br/>([[Sierra Petrovita's dialogue]])</ref> Popularity of its variants strongly depended on the region, with western states strongly favoring [[#Nuka-Cola Quartz|Nuka-Cola Quartz]], [[#Nuka-Cola Victory|Victory]], and the root-beer flavored [[#Nuka-Cola Wild|Wild]] (competing with [[Sunset Sarsaparilla]]). More urbanized eastern states favored classic tastes, such as [[#Nuka-Grape|Nuka-Grape]], [[#Nuka-Cola Orange|Nuka-Cola Orange]], and [[#Nuka-Cherry|Nuka-Cherry]].<ref name="WoR tour" />

===Competitors===
Nuka-Cola became a nationally-recognized brand through a combination of aggressive marketing and hostile corporate practices, including takeovers and undermining its competition. The preferred approach was to acquire popular local sodas and rebrand or remarket them as Nuka-Cola variants. Such was the case with two of its flagship flavors, Nuka-Cherry and Nuka-Grape, originally Merle's Very Cherry Soda and Grape-Pearl Soda.<ref>See [[Nuka-Cola Corporation]] for details.</ref>

Larger companies were typically more resilient and rebuffed Nuka-Cola advances. A particularly notable case is [[Sunset Sarsaparilla]], a root beer popular in the southwestern United States. When negotiations with the company fell through in [[Fallout timeline#2058|2058]], Nuka-Cola attempted to compete by launching a rival soda, [[Nuka-Cola Wild]].<ref name="WildRefLoad">[[Fallout 4 loading screen hints#Nuka-World|''Nuka-World'' loading screen hints]]: ''"Although the Nuka-Cola Corporation would never admit it, Nuka-Cola Wild was released to directly compete with Sunset Sarsaparilla after attempts to acquire that company met with failure."''</ref>  

Another notable competitor is [[Vim|Vim! soda]], a popular Maine drink. Owned by a single family, Vim! repeatedly refused offers from Nuka-Cola. In response, the company sued Vim! for copyright infringement (over the new Vim! Quartz soda) and committed industrial espionage and sabotage of its operations, effectively immune to prosecution thanks to John-Caleb Bradbertons ties with the government and the military.<ref>{{Color|Gray|[[Vim! Pop factory terminals]]}}</ref>

==Variants==
{{main|List of Nuka-Cola variants}}

Numerous other variants of the classic Nuka-Cola were introduced, offering different flavors and taste profiles. Although the classic Nuka-Cola remained the most popular, alternative, fruit-flavored beverages were typically an instant success.<ref name="ClassTastes">[[Fallout 4 loading screen hints#Nuka-World|''Nuka-World'' loading screen hints]]: ''"Nuka-Cola introduced fruit-flavored beverages such as Nuka-Cherry, Nuka-Grape and Nuka-Orange only a few short years after the corporation was founded. They were an instant success."''</ref> Its popularity endured long after the [[Great War]] destroyed the [[Nuka-Cola Corporation]], partly thanks to the sheer number of bottles and cans produced,<ref name="SuchManyWow" /> and partly due to its pleasant flavor. Even when warm, flat, and irradiated, it's the soft drink of choice for many wastelanders.<ref>[[Fallout demo|''Fallout'' demo]], ''[[Fallout]]'', ''[[Fallout 2]]'' and ''[[Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel]]'' item description: ''"{10600}{}{Nuka-Cola}"''<br/>''"{10601}{}{A bottle of Nuka-Cola, the flavored softdrink of the post-nuclear world. Warm and flat.}"''<br/>([[PRO ITEM.MSG (demo)]], [[PRO ITEM.MSG (Fallout)]], [[PRO ITEM.MSG (Fallout 2)]], [[Items.txt]])</ref>

Those unable to procure genuine Nuka-Cola bottles can homebrew the drink, with denizens of the southwest [[Nuka-Cola (Fallout: New Vegas)|able to approximate the taste and properties]] with [[Nevada agave fruit|Nevada agave]] and [[Barrel cactus fruit|barrel cactus]].<ref>Homebrewed Nuka-Cola recipe in ''[[Fallout: New Vegas]]''.</ref>

Notably, Nuka-Cola is best served chilled. Common before the war, ice cold Nuka-Colas are a luxury item after the Great War, due to the scarcity of working refrigeration units. Though flat, chilled Nuka-Cola is the recommended way of drinking it.<ref>Ice cold Nuka-Colas in ''Fallout 3'', ''Fallout: New Vegas'', and ''Fallout 4''.</ref>

===Classic Nuka-Cola===
[[File:NukaClassic.png|right|100px]]
The classic Nuka-Cola taste is the result of combining seventeen different fruit essences with the classic cola tastes, enhancing, but not overwhelming it.<ref name="ClassicTaste1" /><ref>[[#Ingredients|See above for references]].</ref>
{{clear}}

===Diet Nuka-Cola===
{{Gamearticle|type=mentioned|FO1}}
A diet version of the classic Nuka-Cola, with sugar content substitued with aspartame.<ref>[[Dugan]]: ''"{124}{}{Too bad we ran out of Diet.}"''<br/>([[DUGAN.MSG]])</ref>
{{clear}}

===Nuka-Cherry===
[[File:Nukacherry.png|right|100px]]
<section begin="cherry" />
Cherry Nuka-Cola was one of three fruit-flavored variants released a few years after the debut of Nuka-Cola,<ref name="ClassTastes">[[Fallout 4 loading screen hints#Nuka-World|''Nuka-World'' loading screen hints]]: ''"Nuka-Cola introduced fruit-flavored beverages such as Nuka-Cherry, Nuka-Grape and Nuka-Orange only a few short years after the corporation was founded. They were an instant success."''</ref> following the acquisition of [[Merle's Very Cherry Soda]]. The original formula was a local, home-brewed pure cherry soft drink. The drink was rebranded and launched with only slight adjustments to formula, mixed with Nuka-Cola then enhanced with color to boost visual appeal.<ref>[[Bradberton's office terminals#Merle's Very Cherry Soda|Bradberton's office terminals; Bradberton's Project Terminal, Merle's Very Cherry Soda]]</ref> It proved to be a drink with enduring popularity, though it was largely limited to the East Coast.<ref name="WestEast">[[World of Refreshment]] tour: ''"Out west, they enjoy regional favorites such as the classy Nuka-Cola Quartz and refreshingly patriotic Nuka-Cola Victory. Or, for those that prefer a timeless root-based beverage, they pick up a delicious Nuka-Cola Wild!''<br/>''While out here on the east coast, folks delight in the refreshment of an ice-cold Nuka-Grape, Nuka-Orange, or Nuka-Cherry. And be on the lookout for our special pre-release shipments of Nuka-Cola Quantum coming soon to your favorite grocer or restaurant!"''<br/>([[World of Refreshment announcer's dialogue]])</ref>
<section end="cherry" />
{{clear}}

===Nuka-Grape===
[[File:NukaGrape.png|right|100px]]
<section begin="Grape"/>Originally sold overseas as the [[Grape-Pearl Soda]], Nuka-Grape was born after the company acquired the recipe. With no change in flavor profile and only minute adjustments to the formula to maximize profit margins,<ref>[[Bradberton's office terminals#Grape-Pearl Soda|Bradberton's office terminals; Bradberton's Project Terminal, Grape-Pearl Soda]]</ref>  Grape was one of three fruit flavors released shortly after the beverage's debut, to instant success.<ref name="ClassTastes">[[Fallout 4 loading screen hints#Nuka-World|''Nuka-World'' loading screen hints]]: ''"Nuka-Cola introduced fruit-flavored beverages such as Nuka-Cherry, Nuka-Grape and Nuka-Orange only a few short years after the corporation was founded. They were an instant success."''</ref> As with [[Nuka-Cola#Nuka-Cherry|Nuka-Cherry]] and [[Nuka-Cola#Nuka-Orange|Nuka-Orange]], it was only distributed in the eastern [[United States of America|United States]].<ref name="WestEast">[[World of Refreshment]] tour: ''"Out west, they enjoy regional favorites such as the classy Nuka-Cola Quartz and refreshingly patriotic Nuka-Cola Victory. Or, for those that prefer a timeless root-based beverage, they pick up a delicious Nuka-Cola Wild!''<br/>''While out here on the east coast, folks delight in the refreshment of an ice-cold Nuka-Grape, Nuka-Orange, or Nuka-Cherry. And be on the lookout for our special pre-release shipments of Nuka-Cola Quantum coming soon to your favorite grocer or restaurant!"''<br/>([[World of Refreshment announcer's dialogue]])</ref><section end="Grape"/>
{{clear}}

===Nuka-Cola Orange===
[[File:NukaOrange.png|right|100px]]
<section begin="Orange"/>Along with [[Nuka-Cola#Nuka-Cherry|Nuka-Cherry]] and [[Nuka-Cola#Nuka-Grape|Nuka-Grape]], Nuka-Cola Orange was one of the Nuka-Cola Corporation's fruit flavors. It was an instant success<ref name="ClassTastes">[[Fallout 4 loading screen hints#Nuka-World|''Nuka-World'' loading screen hints]]: ''"Nuka-Cola introduced fruit-flavored beverages such as Nuka-Cherry, Nuka-Grape and Nuka-Orange only a few short years after the corporation was founded. They were an instant success."''</ref> among consumers on the East Coast.<ref name="WestEast">[[World of Refreshment]] tour: ''"Out west, they enjoy regional favorites such as the classy Nuka-Cola Quartz and refreshingly patriotic Nuka-Cola Victory. Or, for those that prefer a timeless root-based beverage, they pick up a delicious Nuka-Cola Wild!''<br/>''While out here on the east coast, folks delight in the refreshment of an ice-cold Nuka-Grape, Nuka-Orange, or Nuka-Cherry. And be on the lookout for our special pre-release shipments of Nuka-Cola Quantum coming soon to your favorite grocer or restaurant!"''<br/>([[World of Refreshment announcer's dialogue]])</ref> It was developed under the code name "Fur Seal" with a [[Alcohol|Pear Brandy]] as a flavor base with its intense aftertaste cut with trace [[Poison|Arsenic]].<ref>[[Kanawha Nuka-Cola Plant terminals#Fur Seal|Kanawha Nuka-Cola Plant terminals; Current Project Status, Fur Seal]]</ref>
<section end="Orange"/>
{{clear}}

===Nuka-Cola Dark===
[[File:NukaDark.png|right|100px]]
<section begin="Dark"/>This particular variation of Nuka-Cola became the company's attempt at entering the alcoholic beverage market and appeal to the adult demographic. A [[W:Ready to drink|ready to drink]] of Nuka-Cola and [[rum]] boasting an [[alcohol]]-by-volume content of 35%,<ref>[[:File:Nuka Dark label.png|Nuka Cola Dark label]]</ref> the beverage was touted as "the most thirst-quenching way to unwind." Unsurprisingly, those partaking in the drink were recommended to not operate motor [[vehicle]]s or heavy machinery for at least eight hours after drinking, and encourage women who are pregnant or may become pregnant to avoid the drink.<ref>[[World of Refreshment]] tour: ''"Hey Mom and Dad, are you ready for a night out on the town? Then pick up an ice-cold Nuka-Cola Dark and experience the most thirst-quenching way to unwind. Nuka-Cola Dark: that refreshingly familiar Nuka-Cola taste with a light alcoholic twist. {{Tooltip|35% alcohol by volume. Do not consume Nuka-Cola Dark if you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant. Do not operate motor vehicles or heavy machinery for at least 8 hours after drinking.|Very high speed disclaimer}}"''<br/>([[World of Refreshment announcer's dialogue]])</ref> Still, it found success in many of the finer lounges and restaurants across the nation.<ref>[[Fallout 4 loading screen hints#Nuka-World|''Nuka-World'' loading screen hints]]: ''"Nuka-Cola Dark was the corporation's attempt at entering the alcoholic beverage market. Boasting 35% alcohol-by-volume, the unusual soft drink found its success at many of the finer lounges and restaurants around the country."''</ref> 
<section end="Dark"/>
{{clear}}

===Nuka-Cola Quantum===
[[File:NukaQuantum.png|right|100px]]
<section begin="quantum" />
Nuka-Cola Quantum was introduced in [[Fallout timeline#2077|2077]], as a brand-new flavor of Nuka-Cola, with twice the calories, twice the carbohydrates, twice the caffeine and twice the taste.<ref>[[World of Refreshment]] tour: ''"Welcome to the Nuka-Cola World of Refreshment, now featuring a river of Nuka-Cola Quantum! Nuka-Cola Quantum: Twice the calories, twice the carbohydrates, twice the caffeine, and twice the taste! And just look at that amazing, patented blue glow! So sit back and enjoy the ride as we take you through the Nuka-Cola World of Refreshment!''"<br/>([[World of Refreshment announcer's dialogue]])</ref> 

The origins of this soda were unlike anything the [[Nuka-Cola Corporation]] had devised before: The Beverageers of [[Nuka-World]] were signed over to the [[Army Research Laboratory]]'s Weapon and Material division to develop biological and chemical weapons for the [[United States Armed Forces|United States military]] as part of [[Project Cobalt]]. After months and months of work on several isotopes of strontium,<ref name="QIsotopes">[[Kanawha Nuka-Cola Plant terminals#Sea Lion|Kanawha Nuka-Cola Plant terminals; Current Project Status, Sea Lion]]</ref> the team discovered the isotope [[W:Strontium-90|strontium-90]] that could weaponize anything in the military's arsenal, but could also act as an additive to make a new cola flavor glow, similar to [[Nuka-Cola#Nuka-Cola Quartz|Nuka-Cola Quartz]] and [[Nuka-Cola#Nuka-Cola Victory|Victory]].<ref>[[Bradberton's office terminals#10-20-2076 JCB|Bradberton's office terminals; Bradberton's Project Terminal, 10-20-2076 JCB]]</ref> In fact, the isotope was so high energy that the beverage it would be added to effectively became sterilized, killing any bacteria with which it came in contact.<ref>[[Nuka-Cola bottling plant terminals#Grand Reopening|Nuka-Cola bottling plant terminals; Bottling Plant Staff Terminal, Grand Reopening]]</ref> The designation of the strontium sample, Q4N7-UM, resulted in the isotope being named Quantum by its creator, [[Rex Meacham]].<ref>[[Nuka-Cola bottling plant terminals#Compound: Q4N7-UM|Nuka-Cola bottling plant terminals; Beverageer's Terminal, Compound: Q4N7-UM]]</ref>

The isotope was processed into an additive safe for human consumption by another Beverageer, [[Ruth Leavitt]].<ref>[[Nuka-Cola bottling plant terminals#Meacham RMNC-0987120|Nuka-Cola bottling plant terminals; Beverageer's Terminal, Meacham RMNC-0987120]]: ''"Meacham RMNC-0987120''

''As far as our new soft drink went, I decided to call it "Quantum." To keep Dr. Leavitt from quitting the team, I put her in charge of that project while Bennell and Medford continued working on Project Cobalt. We had the boys over at the laboratory in Washington D.C. lend us a hand with the live subject testing. Isotopes CE770 and CE772 were close, but caused all sorts of problems with the test subjects. But when we hit CE774, it was that eureka moment we were waiting for. No deaths, only a few mild cases of dizziness and other benign side-effects. A new flavor was born."''</ref> The Quantum additive was mixed into the new flavor which featured an eighteenth fruit flavor: pomegranate.<ref>The [[Lone Wanderer]]: ''"That stuff sounds absolutely revolting."''<br/>[[Sierra Petrovita]]: ''"On the contrary! The secret ingredient was an eighteenth fruit flavor which added just a hint of pomegranate. Top that with a specially engineered isotope to boost the energy output and you have the perfect refresher for a hot summer day!"''<br/>([[Sierra Petrovita's dialogue]])</ref> Of course, using a radioactive additive in a soft drink brought the expected dangers, even with the Beverageer's expertise.<ref>[[Bradberton's office terminals#Incoming Mail KL332NWC|Bradberton's office terminals; Bradberton's Terminal, Incoming Mail KL332NWC]]</ref> Reports in the [[Arlington|Arlington, VA]] [[Nuka-Cola plant]] show that product development had not been without failures and casualties.<ref>[[Nuka-Cola plant terminals#Research Terminal|Nuka-Cola plant terminals; Research Terminal]]</ref> The first few trials of Nuka-Cola Quantum were ultimately fatal, but isotope CCE774 only resulted in dizziness and other mild side effects, allowing it to enter production for limited focus groups on the East Coast.<ref>[[Nuka-Cola bottling plant terminals#Meacham RMNC-0987120|Nuka-Cola bottling plant terminals; Beverageer's Terminal, Meacham RMNC-0987120]]</ref> Pilot programs in [[Washington, D.C.]] indicated that the new flavor was going to take the market by storm.<ref>[[Nuka-Cola bottling plant terminals#Meacham RMNC-0987129|Nuka-Cola bottling plant terminals; Beverageer's Terminal, Meacham RMNC-0987129]]</ref> The Food and Drug Administration did not record any effects that would force a recall, except for one minor side-effect: The isotope in Nuka-Cola Quantum caused the drinker's urine to glow.<ref>The [[Lone Wanderer]]: ''"Wait, did you say it has an isotope in it? As in it's radioactive?"''<br/>[[Sierra Petrovita]]: ''"Oh no, only ever-so-mildly! No ill effects were ever recorded. Well, it does have the unique property of making your... ummm... your pee glow."''<br/>([[Sierra Petrovita's dialogue]])</ref><ref>[[Kanawha Nuka-Cola Plant terminals#Sea Lion|Kanawha Nuka-Cola Plant terminals; Current Project Status, Sea Lion]]</ref>
<section end="quantum" />
{{clear}}

===Nuka-Cola Quartz===
[[File:Nukaquartz.png|right|100px]]
<section begin="quartz" />
Nuka-Cola Quartz is a flavor of Nuka-Cola that enjoyed a limited release in the [[Southwest Commonwealth|American Southwest]]. It remains a rare find in the post-apocalypse.<ref name="JoshTumblr">[[Joshua Sawyer]] [http://archive.is/hGHb3 tumblr answer]</ref><ref name="VandQ">[[Fallout 4 loading screen hints#Nuka-World|''Nuka-World'' loading screen hints]]: ''"Nuka-Cola Victory and Nuka-Cola Quartz are two examples of regional brands. These flavors, in particular, were only distributed in the southwestern area of the United States."''</ref> It has a classy look, thanks to the lack of added food colorings.<ref name="West">[[World of Refreshment]] tour: ''"Out west, they enjoy regional favorites such as the classy Nuka-Cola Quartz and refreshingly patriotic Nuka-Cola Victory. Or, for those that prefer a timeless root-based beverage, they pick up a delicious Nuka-Cola Wild!"''<br/>([[World of Refreshment announcer's dialogue]])</ref> It was developed under the code name "Angry Beaver", during development the developers added non-soluble sugar flakes to simulate quartz appearance and to counteract the cavitation issues from previous attempts.<ref>[[Kanawha Nuka-Cola Plant terminals#Angry Beaver|Kanawha Nuka-Cola Plant terminals; Current Project Status, Angry Beaver]]</ref>
<section end="quartz" />
{{clear}}

===Nuka-Cola Victory===
[[File:Nukavictory.png|right|100px]]
<section begin="victory" />
Nuka-Cola Victory is a "refreshingly patriotic" flavor of Nuka-Cola that enjoyed a limited release in the [[Southwest Commonwealth|American Southwest]]. It remains a rare find in the post-apocalypse.<ref name="JoshTumblr">[[Joshua Sawyer]] [http://archive.is/hGHb3 tumblr answer]</ref><ref name="VandQ" /><ref name="West">[[World of Refreshment]] tour: ''"Out west, they enjoy regional favorites such as the classy Nuka-Cola Quartz and refreshingly patriotic Nuka-Cola Victory. Or, for those that prefer a timeless root-based beverage, they pick up a delicious Nuka-Cola Wild!"''<br/>([[World of Refreshment announcer's dialogue]])</ref>
<section end="victory" />
{{clear}}

===Nuka-Cola Wild===
[[File:Nukawild.png|right|100px]]
<section begin="Wild"/>Introduced in [[Fallout timeline#2058|2058]], Nuka-Cola Wild is a root-based beverage inspired by the soda of choice in the [[W:American frontier|Wild West]]. This variant was only produced after the [[Nuka-Cola Corporation]] was unable to acquire the [[Sunset Sarsaparilla Company]];<ref>[[Fallout 4 loading screen hints#Nuka-World|''Nuka-World'' loading screen hints]]: ''"Although the Nuka-Cola Corporation would never admit it, Nuka-Cola Wild was released to directly compete with Sunset Sarsaparilla after attempts to acquire that company met with failure."''</ref> accordingly, Nuka-Cola Wild was only sold to the public in the [[Southwest Commonwealth|American Southwest]] to directly compete with the well established [[Sunset Sarsaparilla]].<ref name="West">[[World of Refreshment]] tour: ''"Out west, they enjoy regional favorites such as the classy Nuka-Cola Quartz and refreshingly patriotic Nuka-Cola Victory. Or, for those that prefer a timeless root-based beverage, they pick up a delicious Nuka-Cola Wild!"''<br/>([[World of Refreshment announcer's dialogue]])</ref><section end="Wild"/>
{{clear}}

===Nuka-Cola blends===
[[File:NukaMix.png|right|100px]]
The [[Nuka-World]] theme park published ''[[The Official Nuka-World Recipe Book]]'' which includes over a dozen recipes that allowed visitors to the park to create their own blends of Nuka-Cola flavors with the use of a [[Nuka-Mixer station]].<ref>[[Fallout 4 loading screen hints#Nuka-World|''Nuka-World'' loading screen hints]]: ''"The Official Nuka-World Recipe Book featured fifteen brand new Nuka-Cola recipes that required the use of a Nuka-Mixer Station to properly blend the sometimes volatile liquids."''</ref> These blends could not be found anywhere other than inside the gates of Nuka-World.

{| class="va-table va-table-left va-table-top"
! Soda name
! ...is a blend of:

|-
| [[Newka-Cola]]
| [[#Nuka-Cola|Nuka-Cola]] and [[#Nuka-Cherry|Nuka-Cherry]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Berry]]
| [[#Nuka-Cola|Nuka-Cola]], [[#Nuka-Cherry|Nuka-Cherry]], and [[#Nuka-Grape|Nuka-Grape]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Bombdrop]]
| [[#Nuka-Cola|Nuka-Cola]], [[#Nuka-Cola Dark|Nuka-Cola Dark]], [[Alcohol#Bourbon|bourbon]], [[Alcohol#Rum|rum]], and [[Alcohol#Vodka|vodka]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Buzz]]
| Two [[#Nuka-Cola Wild|Nuka-Cola Wilds]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Cide]]
| [[#Nuka-Cola|Nuka-Cola]], [[#Nuka-Cherry|Nuka-Cherry]], [[#Nuka-Cola Dark|Nuka-Cola Dark]], [[#Nuka-Cola Orange|Nuka-Cola Orange]], [[#Nuka-Cola Quantum|Nuka-Cola Quantum]], [[#Nuka-Cola Quartz|Nuka-Cola Quartz]], [[#Nuka-Cola Victory|Nuka-Cola Victory]], [[#Nuka-Cola Wild|Nuka-Cola Wild]], and [[#Nuka-Grape|Nuka-Grape]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Cooler]]
| [[#Nuka-Cola Quantum|Nuka-Cola Quantum]], [[#Nuka-Cola Quartz|Nuka-Cola Quartz]], and [[#Nuka-Cola Victory|Nuka-Cola Victory]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Fancy]]
| [[#Nuka-Cherry|Nuka-Cherry]] and [[#Nuka-Cola Wild|Nuka-Cola Wild]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Free]]
| [[#Nuka-Cola|Nuka-Cola]] and [[Dirty water (Fallout 4)|dirty water]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Frutti]]
| [[#Nuka-Cola|Nuka-Cola]], [[#Nuka-Cherry|Nuka-Cherry]], [[#Nuka-Grape|Nuka-Grape]], and [[#Nuka-Cola Orange|Nuka-Cola Orange]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Hearty]]
| [[#Nuka-Cola|Nuka-Cola]], [[#Nuka-Cola Dark|Nuka-Cola Dark]], [[carrot flower]], and [[tato]] juice
|-
| [[Nuka-Lixir]]
| [[#Nuka-Cola|Nuka-Cola]], [[#Nuka-Cola Orange|Nuka-Cola Orange]], and [[Med-X]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Love]]
| [[#Nuka-Cherry|Nuka-Cherry]] and [[#Nuka-Cola Quartz|Nuka-Cola Quartz]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Power]]
| [[#Nuka-Cola|Nuka-Cola]] and [[#Nuka-Cola Dark|Nuka-Cola Dark]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Punch]]
| [[#Nuka-Cherry|Nuka-Cherry]], [[#Nuka-Cola Orange|Nuka-Cola Orange]], [[#Nuka-Cola Quartz|Nuka-Cola Quartz]], and [[#Nuka-Grape|Nuka-Grape]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Ray]]
| [[#Nuka-Cola Orange|Nuka-Cola Orange]] and [[#Nuka-Cola Victory|Nuka-Cola Victory]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Rush]]
| [[#Nuka-Cola Victory|Nuka-Cola Victory]] and [[#Nuka-Cola Wild|Nuka-Cola Wild]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Sunrise]]
| [[#Nuka-Cherry|Nuka-Cherry]] and [[#Nuka-Cola Orange|Nuka-Cola Orange]] 
|-
| [[Nuka-Twin]]
| [[#Nuka-Cola|Nuka-Cola]] and [[#Nuka-Cola Wild|Nuka-Cola Wild]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Void]]
| [[#Nuka-Cola Dark|Nuka-Cola Dark]] and [[#Nuka-Cola Quantum|Nuka-Cola Quantum]]
|-
| [[Nuka-Xtreme]]
| [[#Nuka-Cola|Nuka-Cola]], [[#Nuka-Cola Quantum|Nuka-Cola Quantum]], and [[#Nuka-Grape|Nuka-Grape]]
|}

===Unreleased flavors===
====Nuka-Cola Clear====
{{Gamearticle|type=mentioned|FO3|FO4NW}}
<section begin="clear" />
After the [[Nuka-Cola Corporation]] acquired [[Sharon's Downhome Country Lemonade]], they intended to reproduce the soft drink with less expensive ingredients to increase profitability.<ref>[[Bradberton's office terminals#Sharon's Downhome Country Lemon|Bradberton's office terminals; Bradberton's Project Terminal, Sharon's Downhome Country Lemon]]</ref>  Nuka-Cola Clear's flavor profile was going to be lemon-lime, but the corporation encountered problems in production: [[John-Caleb Bradberton]] wished to spend available funds producing and promoting the newly formulated [[Nuka-Cola#Nuka-Cola Quantum|Nuka-Cola Quantum]] instead, and with [[Nuka-Cola#Nuka-Cola Quartz|Nuka-Cola Quartz]], the marketing team was unsure how to promote two clear sodas at the same time. For these reasons, Bradberton pushed back Nuka-Cola Clear production until at least [[Fallout timeline#2079|2079]].<ref>[[Nuka-Cola Clear (holotape)]]</ref> The [[Nuka-Cola Clear formula|formula]] was locked away in the [[Nuka-Cola plant]] in [[Columbia Commonwealth|Arlington, Virginia]], sealed by the [[Great War]].<ref>The appropriate quest in ''Fallout 3''.</ref>
<section end="clear" />

====Nuka-Boost/Black====
{{Gamearticle|type=mentioned|FO4|F76}}
Originally called Packed Full of Joe before being bought out by the Nuka-Cola corporation, Nuka-Boost was a failed attempt at mixing the flavor profiles of [[coffee]] and Nuka-Cola. Developed under the code name "Walrus",<ref name="NukaBlack"/> the attempts to mix cola (let alone all the other fruit flavors in Nuka-Cola) and coffee went about as poorly as one can imagine and the flavor project was sent back to the drawing board after multiple unfavorable taste tests.<ref>[[Bradberton's office terminals#Packed Full Of Joe|Bradberton's office terminals; Bradberton's Project Terminal, Packed Full Of Joe]]</ref> Further development was made at a [[West Virigina]] [[Kanawha Nuka-Cola Plant|Plant]] under the name Nuka-Black. Notes from the unsatisfactory taste tests of coffee were taken into consideration and the mixers there proposed a change of the main additive ingredient from coffee to [[W:Dextroamphetamine|Dextromethamphetamine]].<ref name="NukaBlack">[[Kanawha Nuka-Cola Plant terminals#Walrus|Kanawha Nuka-Cola Plant terminals; Current Project Status, Walrus]]</ref>
{{clear}}

====Nuka-Cola Cranberry====
{{Gamearticle|type=mentioned|F76}}
[[file:Nuka-Cola Cranberry billboard.png|thumb|right|Coming Soon]]
Conceptualized by the [[Kanawha Nuka-Cola Plant]], the idea for the drink came from celery-flavored sparkling waters, as well as mixing artificial flavors, package design and marketing to trick people into thinking it had health benefits.<ref>[[Product Brainstorming 1]]</ref> After more data gathering, cranberries were determined to become the first in the potential line of "snack beverages", using surplus cranberry supplies from [[Cranberry Bog|Raleigh County]] as a primary source. The plan was to use marketing tactics to present it as a premium lifestyle brand for the rich and meant for those who had refined palettes and a taste high quality products.<ref>[[Product Brainstorming 2]]</ref> Like many of the fruit variants of Nuka-Cola, this one would predominantly feature [[cranberries]]. Heavily advertised around the [[Watoga]] [[Cranberry Bog|area]] of [[Appalachia]] as "coming soon", it would stay unreleased. Nuka-Cola Cranberry would have likely been a regional flavor for Appalachia, like both Victory and Quartz. That being said, it did appear to have some form of release before the war occurred.<ref>[[New Appalachian Rail terminals#Message From: T. Pendleton]]</ref>
{{clear}}

===Mixed Nuka-Cola drinks===
====Nuka-Cola float====
{{Gamearticle|type=mentioned|FO4|F76}}
An [[W:Ice cream float|ice cream float]] made with a combination of Nuka-Cola and ice cream. This dessert beverage was popular up until the Great War when storing ice cream became exceedingly difficult.

====Nukashine====
{{Gamearticle|F76|link1=Nukashine}}
[[File:F76 Nukashine.png|thumb|125px|right|A bottle of Nukashine with its distinct [[Nukashine label|art deco branding]].]]
A high-proof distilled spirit mixed with [[Nuka-Cola Quantum]] and nuclear waste (yes, really), Nukashine was created by [[Lewis (Fallout 76)|Lewis]] of the [[Eta Psi House|Eta Psi]] fraternity of the [[Vault-Tec University]] in November of [[Timeline#2076|2076]].<ref>[[Lewis's personal log]]</ref> The creation was supposed to provide a source of funds for feeding his Nuka-Cola collector's addiction, but wound up catapulting the fraternity to university-wide fame and led [[Judy Lowell]], the chapter president, to set up a speakeasy in the back of [[Big Al's Tattoo Parlor]] bearing the same name. The spirit itself is incredibly powerful, causes blackouts, severe hangovers, and is potentially ''lethal'', as the fellow [[Pi Mu House|Pi Mu]] fraternity found out during their "eviction party".<ref>[[Eta Psi House terminals]]</ref>

====Rum & Nuka====
{{Gamearticle|FNV|link1=Rum & Nuka}}
Once the go-to drink for all college freshmen everywhere, the Rum & Nuka still sits at the top as being one of the easiest highballs to make, even at a [[Atomic Wrangler Casino|post-war bar]], provided those who have the [[Jacob Hoff|talents]] to create such mixes are employed. <ref>The [[Courier]]: ''"How's business?"''<br/>[[James Garret]]: ''"With Jacob Hoff sobered up, there are new drinks are on the menu and sales are strong. People love the new Absinthe and Rum & Nuka."''<br/>([[James Garret's dialogue]])</ref>

===''Fallout Tactics''===
There are three variations of Nuka-Cola available in ''Tactics'':
{| width="66%"
![[File:ClassicNuka-Cola.png|center|100px]]
![[Classic Nuka-Cola]]
|<section begin="classic"/>Classic Nuka-Cola tastes exactly like the original Nuka-Cola but comes in a new bottle. It was an attempt at saving the brand after the marketing disaster that was [[Cherry Nuka-Cola]].<section end="classic"/>
|-
![[File:CherryNuka-Cola.png|centeR|100px]]
![[Cherry Nuka-Cola]]
|{{transcludesection|Nuka-Cola|cherry|options=nointro}}
|-
!
[[File:Fusioncola.png|center|100px]]
![[Fusion Cola]]
|
<section begin="fusion"/>
A unique concoction created by [[Phil, the Nuka-Cola dude]], responsible for refilling the Nuka-Cola machines across the wasteland. ''Fusion'' Cola is exactly what it says on the tin: A fusion of Nuka-Cola dregs into one, concentrated essence.
<section end="fusion"/>
|-
![[File:YellowNuka-Cola.png|center|100px]]
![[Yellow Nuka-Cola]]
|<section begin="yellow"/>An empty bottle of Nuka-Cola filled to the brim with human urine, courtesy of [[Roshambo]]. Drinking is ill-advised.<section end="yellow"/>
|}

==Behind the scenes==
{{transcludesection|Nuka-Cola Corporation|behind|options=nointro}}

==Gallery==
<gallery>
File:Fo4 Nuka Cola Zap That Thirst.png|A ''Zap That Thirst!'' print advertisement in the ''[[Fallout 4]]'' [[Fallout 4 trailer|official trailer]].
NukaBreak.png|A Nuka-Cola billboard in ''[[Fallout 3]]''
Nukabreak.png|Concept art by Adam Adamowicz of the Nuka-Cola billboard
Nuka-Cola.jpg|A Nuka-Cola billboard in ''[[Fallout Tactics]]''
Real Nuka-Cola Bottle.jpg|A photo of the bottle prop given out at E3 2008
</gallery>

{{RTB}}

[[Category:Consumables]]
[[Category:Nuka-Cola]]