When the first round of content downloads for “Fallout 3″ ships next month, it will transport players from the wreckage of Washington to the snow-covered wastes of Alaska.

“Operation: Anchorage” adds to the existing plot but focuses on the liberation of Anchorage from Chinese invaders, considered the stuff of legend to people within the Vault. Players will be able to access new weapons and technologies usable elsewhere in the game, but also face about four or five hours of struggles requiring different skill sets, producer Jeff Gardiner told IGN.

“There will be a new quest objective” for players who leave the Vault, Gardiner said. “You can play through this content at any level, once you’ve exited.”

It appears though that the download goes to Xbox 360 and PC users only, however. When asked about the price, Gardiner said only that it would cost “800 (Microsoft) points.”

The download is due to ship Jan. 1. Soon after, two more downloads are expected: “The Pitt,” which takes place in a heavily irradiated Pittsburgh and is expected out Feb. 1, and “Broken Steel,” featuring an effort by the Brotherhood of Steel to rid decrepit D.C. of the Enclave. That one is set for release March 1.