Getting NPCs Out of Power Armor: A Comprehensive Fallout Guide
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So, you’ve got an NPC stuck in a suit of Power Armor in Fallout? Whether it’s a companion you want to reclaim your gear from, or a settler who’s decided to squat in your best T-60, this guide will walk you through the methods to evict them. The short answer is this: There are several ways, depending on the NPC’s status (companion vs. settler) and whether you’re comfortable using console commands. For a companion, you can simply command them to exit the armor by interacting with them. For settlers and other NPCs, the easiest method is often removing the fusion core, which will force them out. Console commands offer more direct control, but are only available on PC. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown.
Evicting NPCs from Power Armor: Step-by-Step
Here’s a breakdown of the methods available to you, depending on the situation:
Method 1: The Companion Command (Simplest)
This is the easiest and most straightforward method, but it only works for active companions.
- Approach the NPC: Walk up to your companion who is currently wearing the power armor.
- Initiate Interaction: Use the interact key (usually E on PC, X on Xbox, or Square on PlayStation) to open the dialogue menu.
- Command Exit: If they are in your active party, a dialogue option should appear allowing you to command them to exit the power armor. It might be phrased as “Get out of the power armor,” or similar.
- Success! The companion should dismount the power armor, leaving it available for you to enter or store.
Method 2: The Fusion Core Removal (Subtle and Effective)
This works on any NPC who isn’t hostile, though it requires a bit of finesse or the Pickpocket perk.
- Approach the NPC: Get close enough to the NPC to interact or pickpocket them.
- Pickpocket (if necessary): If you have the Pickpocket perk, attempt to steal the Fusion Core from their inventory. This can be tricky, so save beforehand!
- Alternative: Lure and Wait: If you can’t pickpocket, try creating a diversion or luring the NPC away from the armor. Sometimes, they’ll exit the armor on their own due to combat or script triggers.
- Retrieve the Fusion Core: Once the NPC exits the power armor (either through successful pickpocketing or other means), take the Fusion Core from the armor itself if it didn’t fall out. They need this core to operate the armor.
- Forced Exit: Without a Fusion Core, the NPC will be forced to exit the armor after a short time.
Method 3: Console Commands (PC Only – Powerful but Risky)
This method offers the most direct control but is only available to PC players. Using console commands can sometimes break quests or cause other unforeseen issues, so save your game before using them.
- Open the Console: Press the tilde key (~) on your keyboard to open the console.
- Target the NPC: Click on the NPC wearing the power armor. Their RefID (Reference ID) will appear on the screen.
- Enter the Command: Type the following command into the console, replacing “[RefID]” with the actual RefID of the NPC:
[RefID].CallFunction "Actor.SwitchToPowerArmor" None - Execute the Command: Press Enter to execute the command. The NPC should immediately exit the power armor.
- Close the Console: Press the tilde key (~) again to close the console.
Important Note: The Actor.SwitchToPowerArmor function essentially tells the NPC to enter or exit power armor. By providing “None” as the second argument, you’re telling them to exit.
Method 4: Aggro and Core Targeting (Combat Focused)
This is more of a last resort, but it can work on hostile NPCs in power armor.
- Engage in Combat: Provoke the NPC into combat.
- VATS Targeting: Enter VATS (Vault-Tec Assisted Targeting System).
- Target the Fusion Core: Select the Fusion Core located in the back of the power armor as your target.
- Damage the Core: Focus your attacks on the Fusion Core. After sufficient damage, the NPC will be forced to eject from the power armor, often triggering a small explosion.
- Claim Your Prize: Once the NPC is out, deal with them as necessary, and then claim the power armor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can settlers steal my power armor?
Yes, but only under specific circumstances. If you leave a suit of power armor with a Fusion Core inside it within a settlement that gets attacked, settlers may enter the armor to defend the settlement. Always remove the Fusion Core to prevent this.
2. How do I prevent NPCs from getting into my power armor in the first place?
The best way to prevent NPCs from using your power armor is to always remove the Fusion Core when you’re not using it. This renders the armor inoperable for anyone but you.
3. What happens if I leave power armor somewhere? Will it disappear?
Power armor you’ve placed in the world can despawn over time. It’s generally recommended to store it at a Power Armor Station in one of your settlements to avoid losing it.
4. Can companions damage power armor?
Yes, companions can and will damage the power armor they’re wearing. Like any power armor, the frame is indestructible, but the individual pieces can break and require repair. Regular maintenance is necessary!
5. How do I repair my companion’s power armor?
You repair your companion’s power armor the same way you repair your own – at a Power Armor Station. You’ll need the necessary materials (steel, aluminum, etc.) depending on which parts are damaged.
6. Can I give power armor to a regular settler?
Without mods, you cannot directly assign power armor to settlers. They will only enter it during a settlement attack if a Fusion Core is present.
7. Is there a way to lock power armor so only I can use it?
There is no built-in way to “lock” power armor. Removing the Fusion Core is the only reliable method to prevent unauthorized use.
8. I used console commands and now my game is acting weird. What do I do?
Console commands can sometimes cause unexpected issues. Try reloading a previous save. If the problem persists, you may need to revert to an even earlier save or consult online forums for troubleshooting advice.
9. What’s the best power armor in Fallout 4?
The best power armor depends on your playstyle and needs. The X-01 is generally considered the best all-around armor due to its high damage and energy resistance. The T-60 is a good, more common alternative. Unique sets like the Overboss Power Armor also offer special bonuses.
10. How do Fusion Cores work?
Fusion Cores are the power source for power armor. They deplete over time with use, and a depleted Fusion Core will render the armor immobile. You can find Fusion Cores in generators, military checkpoints, and from vendors.
11. Can I recharge Fusion Cores?
No, you cannot recharge Fusion Cores in Fallout 4. Once they’re depleted, you need to replace them with a fresh core.
12. Where can I find more Fusion Cores?
Explore locations like Vault 95, Fort Hagen, and various military bases. Vendors also sell Fusion Cores, so check in with merchants regularly.
13. What mods can help with power armor management?
Many mods enhance the power armor experience. Some popular options include mods that add customizable paint jobs, improve Fusion Core efficiency, or allow settlers to be assigned to power armor.
14. How does the Power Armor Station work?
The Power Armor Station allows you to repair, modify, and store your power armor. You can access the station by activating it and then selecting the desired action from the menu.
15. Where can I learn more about game design and the educational applications of games?
To learn more about the educational applications of games and the principles of game design, consider exploring resources like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. This organization delves into the intersection of games and learning.
By following these steps and keeping the FAQs in mind, you should be able to effectively manage your power armor and ensure that only those you intend to use it, do! Good luck exploring the wasteland!