Decoding Nick Valentine: Which Faction Holds His Synth Heart in Fallout 4?
Nick Valentine, the hard-boiled, synth detective of Diamond City, is arguably one of the most beloved companions in Fallout 4. His gruff exterior hides a heart of gold (or, well, circuits of something equally valuable). But navigating the Commonwealth’s treacherous factions can be tricky, especially when you’re trying to keep your favorite detective happy. So, which faction does Nick truly favor? The answer, definitively, is the Railroad. While he appreciates the Minutemen’s dedication to helping others, it’s the Railroad’s mission to liberate synths that resonates most deeply with Nick. This is where the heart of his character truly lies.
Why the Railroad? A Synth’s Perspective
Nick’s affinity for the Railroad stems directly from his own identity as a synth. Having experienced the fear, prejudice, and existential dread of being a synthetic being in a world that often sees them as mere machines, he profoundly empathizes with other synths seeking freedom. The Railroad’s unwavering commitment to rescuing synths from the Institute and providing them with new lives aligns perfectly with Nick’s personal values. He understands the significance of their cause on a deeply personal level. Nick often expresses support for the Railroad. Any action taken to aid the railroad in the game is an action Nick would approve of.
Minutemen: A Close Second
While the Railroad holds the top spot, Nick also respects the Minutemen and their dedication to protecting the innocent. His inherent moral compass guides him towards any group whose main goal is helping those in need. The Minutemen’s focus on community and mutual aid appeals to his sense of justice. However, their rather localized focus and less-than-glamorous history put them a rung below the Railroad in Nick’s estimation.
The Brotherhood of Steel: A Clear Dislike
The Brotherhood of Steel, with their staunch anti-synth stance and obsession with technology, is the faction that Nick dislikes the most. Their view of synths as abominations directly clashes with Nick’s existence and the Railroad’s mission. While joining the Brotherhood doesn’t immediately trigger his disapproval, consistently undertaking quests for them and supporting their goals will significantly damage your relationship with him. His snarky comments around Brotherhood members speak volumes.
The Institute: Pure Anathema
Unsurprisingly, the Institute, the creators of synths and the architects of much of the Commonwealth’s suffering, are anathema to Nick. His very existence is a testament to their twisted science, and the horrific experiments they conduct on both humans and synths disgust him. Working with the Institute will quickly earn you Nick’s disapproval and potentially even lead him to abandon you as a companion.
Maintaining Affinity with Nick: Beyond Factions
Remember that building a strong bond with Nick extends beyond factional allegiances. He values honesty, compassion, and a willingness to help those in need, regardless of their background. Dialogue choices that reflect these qualities will always earn you favor. Also, make sure to check out the Games Learning Society or GamesLearningSociety.org website for more gaming insights and analysis!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Nick Valentine and Factions:
1. Does Nick Valentine like it if I join the Brotherhood of Steel?
Joining the Brotherhood initially won’t trigger a negative reaction from Nick. He is, after all, a pragmatist. However, engaging in their quests, particularly those that involve hunting synths or acquiring technology at the expense of others, will definitely lower his affinity towards you. It is important to remember that actions speak louder than words in the Commonwealth.
2. Will Nick Valentine leave me if I side with the Institute?
Yes, siding with the Institute is almost guaranteed to cause Nick to leave your side. His fundamental beliefs clash so severely with the Institute’s methods that he simply cannot condone your support for them. His morality makes a relationship like that impossible.
3. What actions specifically make Nick Valentine happy?
Nick appreciates acts of kindness, helping those in need (especially synths), solving mysteries, using hacking skills to uncover the truth, and showing compassion. He also likes it when you are honest with him and others.
4. What actions specifically make Nick Valentine unhappy?
Nick dislikes violence against non-hostile characters, stealing, using chems, lying (especially to those in need), and generally being a jerk. He really, really hates it when you side with the Institute or harm synths.
5. Can I romance Nick Valentine in Fallout 4?
Unfortunately, no. Despite his popularity, Nick Valentine is not a romanceable companion in Fallout 4. The game developers have stated that it was a deliberate choice, though the exact reasons have been debated within the fanbase.
6. Does Nick Valentine have any unique dialogue depending on which faction I side with?
Yes, Nick has unique dialogue options and commentary depending on your factional choices. He will express his opinions and concerns regarding your actions, particularly if they conflict with his values. You can expect some cutting remarks if you start aligning yourself with those who go against the Railroad’s mission.
7. Is Nick Valentine a Gen 1, Gen 2, or Gen 3 synth?
Nick Valentine is a unique prototype synth, arguably considered to be a Gen 2.5. He has some Gen 3 components (such as a more advanced personality matrix) but retains the mechanical appearance and some limitations of earlier synth models.
8. What is the best way to maximize Nick Valentine’s affinity perk?
To maximize Nick’s affinity perk, “Close to Metal,” consistently make dialogue choices and take actions that align with his values: help people, be honest, show compassion, and support the Railroad. Bringing him along on detective quests will also greatly help.
9. Does Nick Valentine have a personal quest?
Yes, Nick’s personal quest, “Long Time Coming,” involves hunting down the remaining members of a pre-War gang that were responsible for the death of the original Nick Valentine’s fiancee. Completing this quest will significantly increase his affinity towards you.
10. Can Nick Valentine wear Power Armor?
Yes, Nick Valentine can wear Power Armor just like any other humanoid companion. However, it doesn’t affect his unique synth-related dialogue or interactions.
11. Does Nick Valentine have any special interactions with other companions?
Yes, Nick has unique interactions and dialogue with several other companions, especially Piper (due to their shared investigative tendencies) and Curie (due to her scientific curiosity about synths). These interactions add depth to their characters and provide interesting insights into their perspectives.
12. Does Nick Valentine react to the Sole Survivor’s pre-War backstory?
Yes, Nick will occasionally comment on the Sole Survivor’s pre-War life, especially if you trigger specific memories or visit locations relevant to that era. This adds a layer of poignancy to their interactions.
13. What happens if Nick Valentine reaches maximum affinity?
Upon reaching maximum affinity with Nick, you will receive the “Close to Metal” perk, which grants you an additional attempt to hack terminals and reduces terminal lockout time. This perk is incredibly useful for any player who enjoys hacking.
14. Does Nick Valentine dislike it if I use the cannibalism perk?
Yes, Nick Valentine will strongly disapprove if you use the cannibalism perk. His moral compass simply cannot tolerate such actions, regardless of the circumstances. It goes against his character to act in such a manner.
15. Is it possible to permanently lose Nick Valentine as a companion?
Yes, it is possible to permanently lose Nick as a companion. Siding with the Institute and consistently acting against his values can lead him to abandon you permanently. Treat Nick well to keep him by your side.