Top 10 Open-World Games with Unforgettable Companion Stories!

Summary

Companions in open-world games enhance the player’s experience, offering friendship, unique abilities and quests.
Open-world games like The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen excel in companion design and character development.
Select open-world games integrate companions seamlessly, like Fallout: New Vegas and The Outer Worlds, providing depth and narrative impact.

Discovering new places is always exciting, and it’s even more enjoyable when you have someone special by your side. This sentiment applies to open-world video games as well, where players are often free to roam extensive maps filled with unexpected delights, engaging activities, and potential perils. It’s wise to embark on such adventures with a reliable ally.

Regrettably, numerous games struggle with AI for allies that lack personality or even become a nuisance in battle, often needing player intervention just to keep them alive. But, there are open-world games that steer clear of such pitfalls, enabling companions to demonstrate character growth and contribute to the storyline. These outstanding titles have been ranked according to their allies’ overall influence on the game’s quality.

8. Mafia 3

Keeping The Underbosses Happy

As a devoted gamer immersed in the gritty world of Mafia 3, I’ve found myself torn between the somewhat repetitive gameplay rhythm and the undeniable enjoyment it brings. With enough depth to keep things engaging, this game offers a captivating narrative where I, as Lincoln Clay, am on a mission to seize control of the city from the clutches of the mob, all while seeking vengeance against those who’ve wronged me. Along my journey, I’ll forge alliances with three underbosses – allies that could swiftly turn into enemies if I happen to rub them the wrong way.

Engaging in side quests with Cassandra, Thomas, and Vito can strengthen their loyalty towards you. Moreover, handing over control of various criminal operations and districts within New Bordeaux to them also helps build this trust. Occasionally, these characters or their allies might join Lincoln on missions, which can intensify the scenario or introduce humorous elements to alleviate tension.

7. Hogwarts Legacy

Five Companions With Their Own Interests And Personal Quests

In keeping with the broader Harry Potter lore, camaraderie plays a significant role in the game Hogwarts Legacy, mirroring the bond shared by characters like Harry, Ron, and Hermione. The player will encounter companions from all four houses, who will participate in different missions and stand their ground in battles due to their distinctive skills. Furthermore, Professor Fig is instrumental for many of the main storyline’s key events.

During the course of the game, these five companions may not be accessible at all times, but it’s recommended that players utilize them whenever they can. Their individual quests won’t cause any problems if missed, but choosing the wrong dialogue options with Sebastian Sallow from Slytherin might lead to the player overlooking some Dark Arts spells.

6. Fallout: New Vegas

Eight Permanent Companions, Plus Tons Of Temporary Followers

In the realm of Fallout: New Vegas, Obsidian outshone other franchise installments by excelling in the area of companions. The unique Companion Wheel empowered the Courier with command over one of the eight permanent companions, allowing them to dictate actions ranging from increased aggression, altering inventory items, or even using a stimpack, among other options.

As a dedicated fan, I can share that each of these eight characters has unique preferences when it comes to joining forces, lending them individual storylines that deepen their personas. However, if they find my actions questionable, they might choose to depart from my side. Additionally, there are numerous auxiliary allies who join me for specific missions or entire DLC expansions, offering assistance throughout our joint adventures.

5. The Outer Worlds

Six Companions Offer Unique Perks And Side Quests

In The Outer Worlds, Obsidian significantly improved upon companion design compared to New Vegas. There are a total of six companions to uncover and bring aboard, each joining the player’s crew on their ship. Each character has unique strengths, advantages, and skills. Some, like Parvati and Nyoka, excel in combat, while Ellie and Felix add a touch of humor or wit to the storyline.

Each character possesses a rich, developed personality, and their reasons for action are unveiled through individual side missions. They will express thoughts and opinions about events happening near the Stranger, sometimes interrupting conversations or departing from the group if the player performs an act they deem inappropriate.

4. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

The Five Sages Give Link Crucial Powers

In The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, the five primary allies appear during designated missions, yet they play a crucial role in Link’s journey to locate Zelda and defeat Ganondorf. These Sages assist Link significantly in saving various regions on the map through critical quests, and they grant him the power to summon their new abilities whenever needed.

In comparison to others, some abilities prove more beneficial, such as Tulin’s strong gusts of wind. These winds can be advantageous in two ways: either pushing back enemies or propelling Link forward when he is soaring through the air. Alongside these useful abilities, Link also spends a considerable amount of time with his loyal steeds and the spirit of Rauru residing within his right arm.

3. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Some Of The Best Companion Quests In Gaming

In The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Geralt doesn’t have the ability to recruit companions at his will, but he does travel with various characters during specific missions. Despite this limitation, these companions are some of the finest you’ll encounter in gaming. Their personalities evolve throughout the game, offering insights into their reasons for acting as they do, and they are more than capable in combat situations.

Distinctive journeys capture our attention more than others, like Wandering in the Darkside with Keira Metz, The Cat and Wolf’s Playground with Gaetan, and Syanna’s Hill Country Expedition. These companion missions often present crucial ethical dilemmas and moral choices, sparking intense debate among players over the optimal path to take. Additionally, Geralt’s other significant partner throughout his journey is none other than his loyal steed, Roach.

2. Final Fantasy 15

Four Friends On An Adventure

Most fans and reviewers adored Final Fantasy 15, with many pointing out that despite some criticisms about the game’s narrative and mechanics, they couldn’t find fault in the four primary characters or their camaraderie. Cruising through the game’s expansive open world in the Regalia, fighting together in battles, and sharing a meal while camping under the stars all contribute to an enjoyable gaming experience.

As a gamer, I can say that the heartfelt cutscenes and witty dialogues throughout the game really showcase the tight-knit bond between Noctis, Ignis, Gladiolus, and Prompto. Each character’s unique personality shines through as the game progresses. Initially, only Noctis is playable in the main game, but DLC content offers a deeper understanding of the other party members by giving players the opportunity to control them directly.

1. Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen

Pawns Exist To Serve The Arisen

In Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen, pawns are crafted by the Arisen and remain loyal to them. Contrary to their supposed emotionless nature, they exhibit a remarkable degree of character and personality that often surpasses that of typical companions found in many other games.

In this game, players have an opportunity to design a unique companion known as a ‘pawn’, who joins them on their journey through the world of Gransys. You may also enlist the help of other pawns either within the Rift or along the roads of Gransys. Occasionally, your pawn will share observations or express opinions about various aspects such as attire and hairstyles, although these views tend to mirror your own character’s preferences. It is highly recommended that you witness the game’s conclusion personally and empathize with the impact it has on your pawn’s destiny.

2025-03-22 00:08