Who is the Best Person to Go With in Skyrim? A Comprehensive Guide to Companionship
Choosing the best companion in Skyrim is a deeply personal decision, influenced by your playstyle, character build, and even your roleplaying preferences. However, if we’re talking pure, unadulterated power and utility, Serana stands head and shoulders above the rest. As a powerful ancient vampire and capable necromancer, she offers unmatched support in combat, raising the dead to fight alongside you. But “best” isn’t just about raw power. Let’s delve deeper into the world of Skyrim’s companions to help you find the perfect fit.
Understanding Skyrim’s Companion System
Skyrim’s companion system allows you to recruit a wide variety of characters to aid you in your adventures. These companions can carry your burdens (literally), fight by your side, and even provide unique quests and storylines. However, it’s crucial to understand their individual strengths and weaknesses.
Types of Companions
- Followers: These are the most common type of companion, and they follow you around, assisting in combat and carrying items.
- Quest-Specific Companions: Some characters will join you temporarily for specific quests. These companions may have unique abilities or dialogue relevant to the quest.
- Housecarls: These are followers assigned to you after becoming Thane of a hold.
- Dogs: Man’s (or Dragonborn’s) best friend. Dogs like Barbas, while technically not humanoid companions, can be invaluable allies.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Companion
- Combat Style: Does the companion specialize in melee, magic, or archery? Choose one that complements your own combat style.
- Skills: Certain companions have high skill levels in specific areas, such as stealth, healing, or heavy armor.
- Morality: Some companions are morally aligned with good or evil, which might influence your roleplaying experience.
- Personality: Do you find the companion’s personality engaging or annoying? You’ll be spending a lot of time with them!
- Essential Status: Some companions are “essential,” meaning they cannot be killed. This can be a significant advantage in tough battles.
Top Contenders for Best Skyrim Companion
Let’s examine some of the most popular and effective companions in Skyrim:
1. Serana
As mentioned earlier, Serana is arguably the strongest follower in the game. Her powerful necromancy allows her to raise fallen enemies, creating a small army on the battlefield. She’s also a skilled vampire with access to unique spells and abilities. Her essential status means she’s incredibly durable. Furthermore, her complex backstory and involvement in the Dawnguard DLC makes her a compelling and engaging character.
2. Cicero
Cicero, the enigmatic Keeper of the Night Mother, is a fascinating and powerful companion. He’s a skilled assassin with a knack for stealth and melee combat. His unique dialogue and eccentric personality make him a memorable addition to your party. However, his chaotic nature might not appeal to all players.
3. Aela the Huntress
A member of the Companions, Aela the Huntress is a skilled archer and werewolf. Her proficiency with a bow makes her a valuable asset in ranged combat, and her werewolf form provides a powerful boost in melee. She is also a romance option, making her a popular choice for players seeking a long-term companion.
4. Mjoll the Lioness
Mjoll the Lioness is a Nord warrior who seeks justice and fights against corruption. She’s a skilled melee fighter and a valuable tank, able to absorb significant damage. Her strong moral compass and unwavering dedication to good make her a reliable and trustworthy companion.
5. J’zargo
J’zargo, a Khajiit mage from the College of Winterhold, is a powerful and versatile spellcaster. He excels in destruction magic and can unleash devastating fire, frost, and shock spells upon your enemies. His self-confidence (sometimes bordering on arrogance) and unique dialogue add to his charm.
6. Other Notable Companions
- Teldryn Sero: A skilled Dunmer mercenary with a versatile skillset.
- Erandur: A priest of Mara with healing abilities.
- Marcurio: A mage for hire with potent offensive spells.
- Lydia: Your first housecarl, a loyal and dependable warrior.
- Illia: A mage with a tragic backstory and powerful ice magic.
Considerations for Different Playstyles
The “best” companion is subjective and depends on your character’s playstyle:
- Melee-Focused Characters: Choose companions who can provide ranged support or tank damage.
- Mage Characters: Choose companions who can fight in melee or provide additional magical support.
- Stealth Characters: Choose companions with high stealth skills or those who don’t mind waiting outside while you sneak.
The Importance of Personal Preference
Ultimately, the best companion is the one you enjoy playing with the most. Consider their personality, their backstory, and how well they fit into your roleplaying experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different companions to find the perfect match.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Skyrim Companions
1. Can I have more than one humanoid follower at a time?
No, in the vanilla game, you can only have one humanoid follower at a time. However, you can also have a dog or other non-humanoid creature as a companion. Mods can change this limitation.
2. How do I dismiss a follower?
Simply talk to the follower and choose the option to dismiss them. They will usually return to their original location.
3. Can followers die in Skyrim?
Most followers can die, but some are “essential” and cannot be killed. Serana is a prime example of an essential follower.
4. How do I improve my follower’s equipment?
You can give your follower better weapons and armor, which they will equip automatically if it’s better than their current gear.
5. Can followers level up?
Yes, followers level up along with you, but they have level caps.
6. What are the benefits of having a follower?
Followers can carry items, assist in combat, provide unique quests, and offer companionship.
7. Can I marry my follower?
Yes, some followers are eligible for marriage. Aela the Huntress and Mjoll the Lioness are popular examples.
8. How do I marry someone in Skyrim?
You need to obtain an Amulet of Mara and speak to a character who is interested in you. If they accept your proposal, you can arrange the wedding at the Temple of Mara in Riften.
9. Can followers use magic?
Yes, some followers are skilled mages and can use a variety of spells.
10. Do followers have inventories?
Yes, followers have inventories where you can store items.
11. How do I heal my follower?
You can heal your follower by using healing spells or potions on them. Some followers also have healing abilities.
12. Can I command my follower?
Yes, you can issue basic commands to your follower, such as telling them to wait, follow you, or attack a target.
13. What happens if my follower gets knocked down in combat?
If your follower gets knocked down, they will usually recover after a short period. However, if they take too much damage, they can die (unless they are essential).
14. Can I recruit followers from any race?
Yes, you can recruit followers from various races in Skyrim, including Nords, Elves, Khajiit, and Argonians.
15. Where can I learn more about the impact of gaming on society?
You can find valuable resources and insights on the impact of gaming on society at the Games Learning Society website: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. Their research delves into the educational and social benefits of gaming, providing a balanced perspective on this ever-evolving field. Furthermore, GamesLearningSociety.org delves into the impact of video games on children and adults, which provide great information on the future of education.
Conclusion
Choosing the best person to go with in Skyrim is a matter of personal preference, as well as character playstyle, and morals. However, Serana remains a powerful and versatile option for almost any Dragonborn, but exploring different options might be a better fit for you. Good luck, Dragonborn, and may your adventures in Skyrim be filled with camaraderie and excitement!