Who is the Best Heavy Armor Follower in Skyrim? A Comprehensive Guide
Picking the right follower in Skyrim can make all the difference between triumph and dragon-sized defeat. When it comes to heavy armor specialists, the title of “best” isn’t always straightforward. However, based on a combination of factors including health, skills, level cap, and versatility, Vilkas emerges as a top contender for the best heavy armor follower in Skyrim. His high base health (621), proficiency in two-handed weapons, archery, and blocking, alongside his heavy armor skill, makes him an effective tank who can withstand significant damage while dishing it out. While Lydia is a popular early choice, Vilkas’s superior health and combat skills, especially later in the game, make him a stronger choice for players seeking a resilient and reliable heavy armor companion.
Understanding Skyrim Followers
Skyrim’s follower system is one of its most engaging features. Companions can carry your burdens (literally!), assist in combat, and even provide companionship on your adventures. However, not all followers are created equal. Their stats, skills, and level caps vary, making some far more effective than others, especially as you progress through the game. For players focusing on specific combat styles, choosing a follower who complements their playstyle is crucial.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Heavy Armor Follower
- Health: A high health pool is essential for a tanking follower. The more health, the longer they can stay in the fight and draw enemy attention.
- Skills: Proficiency in heavy armor, blocking, and melee weapons (especially two-handed) is vital. Archery can also be a useful addition for ranged support.
- Level Cap: Some followers have a level cap, meaning they will stop leveling up alongside you at a certain point. This can significantly impact their effectiveness in the late game.
- Essential Status: Some followers are marked as “essential,” meaning they cannot die. This can be a significant advantage, as it removes the risk of permanently losing your companion. However, note that this status may affect the game balance, as the followers might be stronger than most.
- Unique Abilities/Spells: While heavy armor followers typically focus on melee combat, some may possess other skills such as restoration magic.
Vilkas: The Tank Extraordinaire
As mentioned earlier, Vilkas stands out as a top-tier heavy armor follower due to his robust stats and skills. Here’s a more detailed look at what makes him such a strong choice:
- High Health: At 621 health points, Vilkas can withstand a considerable amount of damage, making him an excellent “meat shield” in tough encounters.
- Strong Melee Combat: Vilkas is skilled in both two-handed and one-handed combat, allowing him to adapt to different situations.
- Heavy Armor Expertise: His proficiency in heavy armor ensures that he can effectively mitigate incoming damage.
- Versatile: Vilkas’s archery skill provides additional ranged support, making him a well-rounded combatant.
Other Notable Heavy Armor Followers
While Vilkas is a strong contender, several other heavy armor followers are worth considering:
- Lydia: A classic choice, Lydia is often the first follower players encounter. While she has a level cap of 50, her early-game utility and heavy armor proficiency make her a decent option, especially for newer players.
- Aela the Huntress: Although primarily skilled in archery, Aela also possesses decent melee skills and wears light armor. While she is not a heavy armor specialist, she can be a valuable companion for players who prefer ranged support.
- Stenvar: Found in Windhelm, Stenvar is a mercenary who specializes in heavy armor and two-handed combat. He is a reliable tank and can be a good choice for players looking for a straightforward melee companion.
- Frea: Frea is an essential follower in Skyrim, meaning she cannot die. Her proficiency in light armor, coupled with her combat skills and spells, make her a formidable combatant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Skyrim Followers
1. Can Lydia become a Blade?
Yes, Lydia can be recruited into the Blades. After completing the quest “Alduin’s Wall,” you can bring her to Delphine at Sky Haven Temple. This will replace her standard apparel with Blades Armor.
2. How can I make Lydia immortal?
On the PC version, you can use console commands to make Lydia essential (immortal). Open the console and type: “setessential a2c8e 1“. Remember that this can affect game balance.
3. What is Lydia’s maximum level?
Lydia’s level is capped at 50. This means she may become less effective in the late game as you continue to level up.
4. Who is the best follower overall in Skyrim?
The “best” follower is subjective and depends on your playstyle. However, many players consider Serana to be among the most powerful due to her necromantic abilities and versatility in combat.
5. Are any followers unkillable in Skyrim?
Yes, certain followers are essential and cannot die. Examples include Serana, Mjoll the Lioness, and Frea.
6. How do I know if my follower died?
If your follower disappears and doesn’t reappear after waiting or fast-traveling, they may have died. In Lydia’s case, a courier will deliver a letter to you in town informing you of her demise and giving you any inheritance.
7. Can I revive a dead follower?
On PC, you can use the console command “resurrect” after clicking on their body to revive a dead follower. Note that their inventory might reset.
8. Can I turn Lydia into a Vampire?
Yes, it is possible to turn some followers, including Lydia, into vampires. However, you’ll need to be a vampire yourself and use mods or specific game mechanics to achieve this.
9. Can followers wear any armor?
Yes, followers can wear any armor you give them, provided they meet the necessary skill requirements. For example, a follower with low heavy armor skill will not benefit as much from wearing heavy armor as a follower with high heavy armor skill.
10. What is the strongest faction in Skyrim?
The strength of each faction in Skyrim depends on their purpose. In terms of military might, the Imperial Legion is generally considered the strongest. However, for sheer influence and knowledge, the Greybeards hold a unique position. The Games Learning Society can offer further insights into faction dynamics within games and their educational potential; visit https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
11. Who is the hardest boss in Skyrim?
Two of the hardest bosses in Skyrim are often cited as the Ebony Warrior and Karstaag.
12. Who is the most loved character in Skyrim?
Opinions vary, but Paarthurnax and M’aiq the Liar are consistently popular among players.
13. What is the most evil thing you can do in Skyrim?
Many consider empowering the Ebony Blade by killing trusting characters as one of the most morally reprehensible actions in the game.
14. How do level caps impact followers in Skyrim?
Level caps restrict the maximum level a follower can reach. This limitation prevents them from scaling infinitely with the player, potentially making them less effective in the late game as player characters continue to gain levels and improve their skills.
15. What is the advantage of having essential followers in Skyrim?
Essential followers cannot die, offering a significant tactical advantage in combat. They can serve as reliable companions and distractions without the risk of permanent loss, simplifying challenging encounters.
Ultimately, the best heavy armor follower in Skyrim depends on your individual needs and preferences. However, Vilkas’s robust stats, versatile combat skills, and lack of an essential status makes him an excellent choice for players seeking a reliable and effective tanking companion. Whether you’re battling dragons, exploring ancient ruins, or simply wandering the snowy landscapes, having a strong follower by your side can significantly enhance your Skyrim experience. Remember to consider each follower’s strengths and weaknesses to find the perfect companion for your journey.