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Who is the Strongest Companion in Skyrim? A Definitive Guide

Determining the absolute “strongest” companion in Skyrim is surprisingly complex, as strength manifests in different ways depending on your playstyle and needs. However, considering factors like survivability, damage output, versatility, and available perks, Teldryn Sero consistently emerges as a top contender and arguably the strongest overall companion. He boasts high-level skills in combat, powerful spells, and the ability to adapt to various situations, making him a valuable asset to any Dragonborn.

Breaking Down “Strength” in Skyrim Companions

Before delving into specific companions, it’s crucial to define what constitutes “strength” in the context of Skyrim. It’s not solely about raw damage or hit points; it’s a combination of several factors:

Survivability: How well can the companion withstand enemy attacks? Factors like health, armor proficiency, and healing spells contribute.
Damage Output: How effectively can the companion deal damage to enemies? Weapon skills, spellcasting abilities, and available perks are important here.
Versatility: Can the companion adapt to different combat situations? Can they switch between melee and ranged attacks, or provide support through healing or crowd control?
Utility: Does the companion offer benefits beyond combat, such as carrying items, unlocking doors, or providing unique dialogue?
Perks and Abilities: Unique perks or abilities that enhance combat prowess or provide other advantages.

The Case for Teldryn Sero: A Mercenary Master

Teldryn Sero, found in the Retching Netch cornerclub in Raven Rock, is a Dark Elf mercenary who stands out for his well-rounded skillset and impressive combat capabilities. Here’s why he’s considered by many to be the strongest companion:

High-Level Combat Skills: Teldryn is proficient in One-Handed, Destruction, and Light Armor. This allows him to effectively engage in melee combat while also utilizing powerful spells.
Versatile Spellcasting: He can cast a variety of Destruction spells, offering both offensive power and tactical options. He can use Fireball to deal area-of-effect damage and Flames for sustained damage output.
Resilience: While wearing light armor, Teldryn is surprisingly durable thanks to his adeptness at dodging attacks and his inherent Dark Elf resistance to fire.
Availability: While requiring some travel to Raven Rock, he is readily available for hire for a reasonable fee.
No Level Cap: Teldryn levels up alongside the player, ensuring he remains a viable combatant throughout the entire game.
Unique Dialogue: He has unique and often humorous dialogue, adding character to your adventures.

Honorable Mentions: Other Powerful Companions

While Teldryn Sero often tops the list, other companions deserve recognition for their strengths:

Serana: A powerful vampire with access to unique spells and abilities, including the ability to raise the dead. Her undead status makes her resistant to many forms of damage. However, her moral alignment can conflict with certain players.
Frea: Another resident of Solstheim, Frea is a skilled warrior with proficiency in One-Handed, Archery, and Light Armor. She also possesses the ancestor’s Wrath ability, dealing fire damage to nearby enemies.
Cicero: While his personality can be divisive, Cicero is a deadly assassin with high Stealth, One-Handed, and Archery skills. He excels at dealing critical damage from the shadows.

Customization: Equipping Your Companions for Maximum Strength

Remember that even the “strongest” companion benefits from proper equipment. Here are some tips for optimizing your companions’ performance:

Armor: Equip your companions with the best armor you can find or craft. Consider their preferred armor type (light or heavy) and provide them with a full set, including helmet, chest piece, gauntlets, and boots.
Weapons: Give them powerful weapons that match their skills. For melee companions, a well-enchanted sword or axe is ideal. For archers, a high-quality bow with powerful arrows is essential.
Enchantments: Enchant your companions’ armor and weapons with useful effects, such as Fortify Health, Fortify Stamina, or elemental resistance.
Potions: Equip your companions with potions of healing, stamina, and magicka. They will use them automatically in combat.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Skyrim Companions

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide even more information about Skyrim companions:

1. Can companions die in Skyrim?

Yes, companions can die in Skyrim, especially on higher difficulty settings. However, some companions, like essential characters involved in main questlines, are protected and cannot be killed.

2. How do I get a companion in Skyrim?

You can recruit companions by completing specific quests, paying them a fee, or meeting certain requirements. Many companions are found in taverns and cities throughout Skyrim.

3. Can I marry a companion in Skyrim?

Yes, you can marry certain companions in Skyrim. To do so, you need to obtain the Amulet of Mara and speak to the companion while wearing it.

4. What is the level cap for companions in Skyrim?

The level cap for companions varies depending on the companion. Some companions have no level cap and will level up indefinitely with you, while others have a fixed maximum level.

5. Can companions carry items for me?

Yes, companions can carry items for you, increasing your overall carry weight. This is especially useful for accumulating loot during dungeons.

6. How do I dismiss a companion in Skyrim?

You can dismiss a companion by speaking to them and selecting the dialogue option to have them leave your service. They will typically return to their original location.

7. Can I give commands to my companion in Skyrim?

Yes, you can give basic commands to your companion, such as telling them to wait, follow you, or attack a specific target.

8. What happens if my companion gets arrested?

If your companion commits a crime and gets arrested, they will serve their sentence in jail. You can visit them or pay their fine to get them released.

9. Can companions use enchanted weapons and armor?

Yes, companions can use enchanted weapons and armor, benefiting from the effects.

10. How do I improve my relationship with a companion in Skyrim?

Completing quests with a companion, giving them gifts, and making choices that align with their values can improve your relationship with them.

11. Can I change my companion’s skills or perks in Skyrim?

No, you cannot directly change a companion’s skills or perks in the base game of Skyrim. However, mods can alter this.

12. What are the best perks for companions to have?

Useful perks for companions include those that improve their combat skills (One-Handed, Archery, etc.), armor proficiency, and survivability (Fortify Health, Magic Resistance).

13. Do companions affect my Stealth in Skyrim?

Yes, companions can affect your Stealth, especially if they are wearing heavy armor or have low Stealth skills.

14. Can I have multiple companions in Skyrim?

In the base game, you can only have one humanoid companion at a time, plus a dog or other animal companion. Mods can remove this restriction.

15. Are there any companions that are inherently evil in Skyrim?

Yes, some companions, such as Cicero or members of the Dark Brotherhood, have morally questionable alignments. Their actions and dialogue may reflect this.

In conclusion, while the “strongest” companion is subjective and depends on individual preferences, Teldryn Sero’s versatile skillset, lack of level cap, and overall combat prowess make him a compelling choice. However, other companions like Serana and Frea offer unique strengths and should be considered based on your specific needs and playstyle. Remember to equip your companions with the best gear and enchantments to maximize their effectiveness in battle.

Who is the strongest companion Skyrim?