Do You Get a Dog in New Vegas? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, you absolutely can get a dog in Fallout: New Vegas! However, it’s not a traditional canine companion like you might expect. Instead of finding a stray pup in the wasteland, you’ll encounter a cybernetic canine named Rex. This unique robotic dog is a powerful and engaging companion, offering both combat support and a compelling questline. Rex isn’t simply found wandering the Mojave; acquiring him involves completing specific tasks and making strategic choices, making him a rewarding addition to your wasteland team. This article will delve into the details of how to get Rex, what he can do, and answer some frequently asked questions about canine companionship in New Vegas.
How to Recruit Rex in Fallout: New Vegas
Finding Rex
Rex isn’t hiding in a random shack or roaming the desert; he’s located in Freeside, specifically in the care of The King. The King, known for his Elvis-inspired persona, is a prominent figure in the area and can be found in his school of impersonation. Sometimes, Rex will appear near The King’s school, and then may run toward the Lucky 38. You can choose to intercept him or wait for him to return to the presidential suite within the Lucky 38. The key is to initiate dialogue with The King who will mention Rex.
The Quest for a New Brain
Once you encounter Rex, you’ll quickly learn that he’s not quite himself. His brain is damaged, causing him to be somewhat unstable. To make Rex a more effective companion, The King will direct you to Jacobstown, a settlement inhabited by super mutants, and ask you to find Dr. Henry. Dr. Henry is a specialist who can perform surgery to replace Rex’s brain. This quest initiates the “Nothin’ But a Hound Dog” mission which involves acquiring a brain from one of three potential candidates:
- Violetta’s Brain: This brain will result in Rex being more of a speed type.
- Lupa’s Brain: This brain will result in Rex being more of a tank type.
- A random Dog’s Brain: This brain does not give Rex an advantage.
Rex as Your Companion
After selecting a brain and completing the operation, Rex will become your loyal companion. He will follow you, engage in combat alongside you, and provide tactical support. Rex is unique in that he’s a hybrid dog, part organic and part robotic, making him a distinctive addition to your party.
What Makes Rex a Great Companion?
Rex brings several advantages to your adventures in the Mojave:
- Combat Prowess: He’s a capable fighter, able to attack enemies and distract them, which is useful for a solo player or someone who is playing a stealth-based character. He can keep enemies off you so that you can focus on taking down bigger targets or healing.
- Unique Abilities: His cybernetic enhancements allow him to endure more damage than regular dogs. He will also sometimes knock down enemies.
- Loyalty: As a dog, Rex is exceptionally loyal and will stick by your side, following orders and protecting you.
- Quest Integration: His storyline integrates into the larger narrative of Fallout: New Vegas, making him more than just a combat pet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Rex the only “dog” companion in New Vegas?
Yes, Rex is the only dog companion available in Fallout: New Vegas. There are other animal companions, such as ED-E the Eyebot, but no other traditional canines.
2. Can Rex die permanently?
No, Rex cannot die permanently. If his health reaches zero, he will be knocked unconscious. He will get back up once the fight is over, and will heal to full health if you fast travel or enter a new zone.
3. Does Rex need special care?
No, Rex doesn’t require special care like food or water. He functions purely on his cybernetic systems and whatever organic components remain.
4. Can Rex wear armor?
No, Rex cannot wear any armor. Unlike some human companions, his unique build does not allow for equipping traditional armor pieces.
5. What perk does Rex give you?
Rex grants you the “Search and Mark” perk. This will allow Rex to highlight enemies on your compass when they are in proximity.
6. Can Rex carry items?
No, Rex cannot carry items. Unlike some human companions, he is not a pack mule. His purpose is to provide combat assistance, not to hold your loot.
7. How does Rex compare to other companions?
Rex is unique due to his canine nature and cybernetic enhancements. He’s particularly useful in close combat and for players who prefer having a straightforward melee-focused support character. While he doesn’t offer conversation or quest-related dialogue like human companions, he excels in his combat role.
8. Is Rex’s questline difficult?
The “Nothin’ But a Hound Dog” questline is not overly difficult but does involve some travel. The most challenging aspect is often choosing the best brain for Rex, as each option affects his combat abilities.
9. What if I don’t complete Rex’s quest?
If you don’t complete the “Nothin’ But a Hound Dog” quest, Rex will be less effective in combat due to his damaged brain. Completing the quest is essential for his performance.
10. Does Rex have any unique interactions in the game?
While Rex does not have in-depth conversations, he will react to the wasteland environment with barks and growls, adding a layer of immersion to the game.
11. Can I lose Rex as a companion?
Yes, you can send Rex away as you would any other companion. However, if you dismiss him, he will return to the Lucky 38 suite, where you can always go back and re-recruit him.
12. Is Rex like Dogmeat from Fallout 3?
While Rex is Fallout: New Vegas’ version of a dog companion, he is very different from Dogmeat from Fallout 3. Dogmeat is a normal dog, while Rex is a cybernetic robotic hybrid.
13. Is Rex ever referred to as a specific breed?
No, Rex is not referred to as a specific breed. He is a unique hybrid of a dog and robotic components, which makes his appearance distinctive.
14. What about the character “Dog” from the Dead Money DLC?
Dog from the Dead Money DLC is a separate character who has a split personality with his counterpart “God”. While his name is Dog, he is not an animal but rather a mutated human.
15. What happens if I merge Dog and God in the Dead Money DLC?
If you merge Dog and God, they will form a new personality and will not remember you. However, they will have a sense of gratitude towards you.
Conclusion
While Fallout: New Vegas does not offer a wide variety of dog companions, Rex provides a unique and satisfying experience for players who seek a canine comrade. His robotic nature, coupled with his loyalty and combat abilities, makes him a valuable asset on the long and dangerous journey through the Mojave Wasteland. Securing his loyalty through completing the necessary questline will make him a reliable ally to have throughout your playthrough.