As a seasoned gamer with over two decades under my belt, I’ve seen my fair share of open-world games and their pet systems. But let me tell you, none have captivated me quite like the ones found in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, Far Cry, Palworld, and Pokemon.
In numerous video games, the theme of animal companionship mirrors the deep connection many individuals have with their real-life pets. Consequently, it’s not unexpected to find a multitude of games featuring animals as pets, allowing players to experience this bond within the game world as well.
Video games offer a diverse array of settings, including simulation and role-playing titles, where you’ll often find virtual pets. But it’s not just those genres – many open-world games creatively integrate pets as well. In exploring this trend, we’ve compiled a list of ten exceptional games and series that have developed intriguing pet systems. These selections cater to players who seek to form connections and nurture relationships with these digital companions within an expansive game world.
10 Grand Theft Auto 5
Chop the Rottweiler
- Dog Companion
- Attacks any enemies hostile to Franklin.
- Can be pet.
- Can be played with and taught tricks.
- Customizable collars.
- Finds Hidden Packages
In the game Grand Theft Auto 5, the main character, Franklin, adopts a Rottweiler named Chop. Once the player moves to controlling Franklin following the completion of the mission “Chop”, they can engage with Chop in various ways such as playing fetch or taking him for walks. Unfortunately, Chop can meet his end through gunfire, drowning, or being hit by vehicles, but don’t worry, this isn’t fatal since he will reappear at Franklin’s house (although he may be a bit grumpy).
Sadly, gamers are now unable to instruct Chop on doing tricks or keep him content, because the iFruit App, which controlled that aspect of the game, was discontinued in 2022. Nevertheless, Chop remains a useful and entertaining friend while playing with Franklin.
9 Baldur’s Gate 3
Scratch the Dog and the Owlbear Cub
- Possible Dog and Owlbear Cub Camp Members
- Scratch: Can be used as a summon in battle to bite and distract enemies without harming the actual Scratch. Can be pet. Can bring items. Can play fetch. Can be spoken with if the Speak with Animals spell is active.
- Owlbear Cub. Can transform into a large, armored Owlbear to help the player at the final battle. Can be pet. Can be spoken with if the Speak with Animals spell is active.
In the game ‘Baldur’s Gate 3’, Scratch the owlbear cub and their companion could arguably be the sweetest pair of animal allies. However, players might inadvertently overlook them entirely. Their presence significantly enhances the camp environment, as they quickly form a bond and engage in playful chases together.
These interactions are beneficial not just for fun, but also for gameplay effectiveness. With Scratch at your disposal, you can employ him as a diversion during battles without worrying about him sustaining actual harm. The Owlbear Cub, on the other hand, can accompany you in the climactic fight, transforming into a massive, armored Owlbear thanks to a magical potion it was given. However, be mindful that if you’re not careful, both pets can perish, which is a rather heartbreaking scenario.
8 Dragon Age: Origins
Mabari Hound
- Possible Party Member/Dog Companion
- Attacks enemies
- Can be pet
- Can interact with other party members,
- Can be leveled up
- Equippable armored collars and warpaint
In the initial Dragon Age game, a Mabari Hound was presented as a companion, yet this wasn’t merely an adorable pet to accompany you. The Mabari is actually a war dog breed in the Dragon Age universe, and in Origins, players could utilize it just like any other party member.
As a gamer, I find myself in awe of my loyal Mabari companion. This hound has its unique skill progression, earning attribute points each time it levels up. The choices I make when assigning these points can transform my Mabari into a formidable force within our party, a true powerhouse to be respected. And the cherry on top? I get to name this four-legged friend of mine, adding a personal touch that makes our bond even stronger.
7 Red Dead Redemption 2
Various Horse Breeds
- Horse Companion
- 19 Available Horse Breeds
- Can be bought, stolen, or found in the wild and tamed
- Customizable tack
- Players build bonds with their horses
In the thrilling world of Red Dead Redemption 2, horses play an indispensable role, serving as our swiftest and most trusted means of travel. To forge a strong bond with these magnificent steeds, we, as players, must invest time and effort. This relationship, in turn, makes them more dependable under pressure, reducing the chances of panic in perilous situations.
In the game of ‘Red Dead Redemption 2’, building connections with your equine companions can be achieved through acts of care such as grooming, patting, feeding, and riding them. This bond-building process enhances their skills and makes them less likely to toss you off during dangerous encounters with predators or in the heat of a gunfight. Be aware that horses can perish in this game, so take care not to endanger them. If a horse you’ve grown particularly close to meets its untimely end, you will have to start anew from scratch. The equine bonding system in ‘Red Dead Redemption 2’ is uncomplicated yet powerful, fostering strong relationships between players and their horses – and, at times, even eliciting tears when they pass away.
6 Fallout Series
Dogmeat the Dog (and Rex the Cyberdog)
- Possible Party Member/Dog Companion
- Can be pet
- Finds extra loot
- Locates, attacks, incapacitates, and finishes off enemies
- Stealth-based reconnaissance
- Can wear armor and other clothing items.
Since the debut of the very first Fallout game in 1997, I’ve always looked forward to seeing my canine friend, Dogmeat, make an appearance. This faithful companion isn’t just one dog, but rather a name given to the series’ various four-legged friends. Even the popular spin-off game, Fallout: New Vegas, introduced a unique character – a half-robot, half-dog named Rex, who filled Dogmeat’s role. Despite being different dogs, they all share the same loyalty and bravery that I’ve come to expect from this iconic series.
In terms of gameplay, Dogmeat’s key abilities encompass attacking foes, locating items, and essentially being an exceptional companion. In the game ‘Fallout 4’, players have the option to personalize Dogmeat by adding accessories such as collars, bandannas, protective gear, or goggles. They can even provide a teddy bear for Dogmeat to play with during idle moments. Dogmeet and Rex might be the only traditional pets in the ‘Fallout’ series (excluding the mobile game ‘Fallout Shelter’), but their functionality contributes significantly to an engaging pet system within this open-world game franchise.
5 Metal Gear Solid 5
D-Dog the Wolf and D-Horse the Andalusian Horse
- Possible Buddies/Wolf and Horse Companion
- D-Dog: Attacks and stuns enemies. Extracts enemies and prisoners on command. Detect enemies, prisoners, and medicinal herbs. Can be pet. Customizable coat and eye color when the relationship with D-Dog has been maxed out.
- D-Horse: Used to traverse long distances quickly. Can be ridden into battle.Can sneakily approach enemies while riding D-Horse. Can be used to distract enemies. Customizable armor and tack. Light vehicles can slip on D-Horse’s poop.
As a gamer immersed in Metal Gear Solid 5, I’ve got two awesome buddies – D-Dog and D-Horse. While D-Horse is available from the get-go after the prologue, D-Dog, my loyal wolf companion, needs a bit of time to grow up before he joins me on my missions. And if you’re not careful, you might miss out on having this awesome pup by your side!
In their own ways, D-Dog and D-Horse each possess distinctive abilities. Riding D-Horse allows for swift travel over long distances and serves as a diversion for enemies, while D-Dog is proficient in attacking, detecting mines, rescuing people, and covertly distracting the enemy. Additionally, D-Dog has personal visits at the Diamond Dogs base, featuring exclusive cutscenes when players visit him, and numerous chances for affectionate interactions. Uniquely, D-Horse can make vehicles lose traction if driven through his waste, a trait that sets him apart among the pets on this list. Both pets are excellent companions, friends, and battle allies, which makes them stand out in open-world gaming as unique and noteworthy pets.
4 Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
Bears, Wolves, Lynx, Leopards, and Lions
- Possible Animal Companions
- Have to be tamed first.
- Can be pet once tamed.
- Can attack enemies.
- Legendary animals can’t be tamed, but Alpha animals can
In the immersive world of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, I, as a player, have the thrilling opportunity to bond with an array of fascinating creatures. These tamed animals, once loyal companions, serve not only as charming pets but also as formidable allies in my quests. However, this magical connection can only be established once I’ve reached level ten and unlocked the tier three Beast Master Hunter Ability. The process involves engaging these animals in combat until their health dwindles, then strategically knocking them out. Once they’re subdued, I can approach them gently and offer them a place by my side.
In the game of “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey,” the diverse array of creatures you can take along on your adventure, coupled with the methods players use to express affection and care for them like pets, sets its pet system apart among open-world games. And there’s nothing quite as thrilling as having a bear or lion by your side in a fight, isn’t there?
3 Far Cry Series
A Range Of Different Animals Across Far Cry Primal, Far Cry 5, and Far Cry 6
- Possible Animal Companions
- Have to be found and recruited first
- Some can be pet, but some can’t.
- Each animal has a unique set of skills.
Starting with the game “Far Cry Primal,” the Far Cry series introduced a feature allowing players to enlist animals as allies during their journey. This feature is most expansive in “Far Cry Primal,” as the story centers around the main character’s skills as an animal tamer. Both “Far Cry 5” and “Far Cry 6” advanced this feature by incorporating pets with names, histories, and distinct personalities.
In the showcase of animal companions across this collection, each one possesses distinct abilities ranging from stealthy maneuvers to diversion tactics, weapon detection, raw power, and beyond. For gamers yearning for an exceptional animal companion in a sprawling game environment, be it a sabertooth tiger, crocodile, bear, or even a dachshund, the Far Cry series, particularly Primal, are essential choices.
2 Palworld
A Range Of Pals To Capture
- Fantasy animal companions
- Have to be caught first
- Each Pal has a unique set of skills
- Can be pet
- Used to battle
- Can be assigned work
- Can attack enemies and other Pals
In essence, Palworld bears a strong resemblance to the popular franchise, Pokemon, sporting a playful, satirical tone that delves into the lingering mysteries of the Pokemon universe, like the possibility of capturing humans. It’s clear that Palworld is a delightful game, and much like its counterpart, players can develop relationships with their Pals and employ them in various capacities.
In contrast to Pokemon, Palworld features a unique building system where players can construct bases using resources they gather during gameplay. The captured creatures, known as Pals, aid players in resource collection and various tasks based on their specific abilities. The diversity in how each Pal carries out its assigned duties adds an enjoyable element to the game. However, it’s worth noting that the ethical dimensions are somewhat questionable (and amusingly so), as players can capture humans using Pal Spheres and compel them to work within their camps.
1 Pokemon
A Range Of Pokemon From Across Numerous Games
- Fantasy animal companions
- Have to be caught first
- Each Pokemon has a unique set of skills
- Used to battle
- Can (usually) be pet
- The pet system differs from game to game
As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but marvel at the colossal impact of the Pokémon phenomenon! Originating from a Game Boy game launched back in 1996, it has since expanded into an expansive franchise that continues to captivate millions worldwide. To put it into perspective, we’re talking over 100 games encompassing main titles, side games, and spin-offs, not to mention more than a thousand unique Pokémon creatures! The journey of catching ’em all is truly an adventure for the ages.
In these games, players assume the character of an aspiring Pokemon caretaker, catching diverse Pokemon, many modeled after real-world animals. These creatures are then used in combat. Over time, additional features were added to emphasize a stronger bond between player and Pokemon, such as feeding them, playing, or even dressing them up (varies by game).
While fighting often takes center stage, it’s undeniable that the bond between Pokémon and the trainer is a crucial part of the Pokémon universe, creating a fantastic free-roaming pet dynamic.
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2024-08-09 11:34