Fallout 3 is considered by many to be an iconic installment in the Fallout series, as it marked a huge turning point for the future of the franchise. Bethesda took over from Interplay Entertainment as the developer, and the series moved on from 2D graphics and turn-based combat to real-time combat and 3D renders of the characters and the environment.
This shift helped bring Fallout 3’s characters to life, particularly the Lone Wanderer and his companions. These companions have always been a crucial part of the Fallout experience, as they provide support in combat, enhance gameplay, and add depth to the narrative. However, not all companions are created equal, and players' choice of companions varies based on their preferred qualities. Some companions stand out from the rest of the horde based on their abilities, combat effectiveness, and overall utility.
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S-Tier Fallout 3 Companions
- Fawkes
- Charon
Fawkes and Charon are regarded as some of the best companions in Fallout 3, largely due to their combat capabilities. Despite being a super mutant, Fawkes is well known for his heart of gold, making him the perfect companion for players who maintain Good Karma during their playthroughs. Equipped with an extra helping of health, strength, and Gatling gun (which boasts a killer DPS), Fawkes is considered the most complete companion for combat. His carry capacity is also unrivaled, and the difficulty of unlocking Fawkes as a companion is justified by the value he brings to the table.
On the other hand, Fallout 3's Charon famously lacks a moral compass, so players are free to explore neutral or evil playthrough options. The ghoul is only loyal to his master and will carry out any task to protect their interest regardless of the player's karma. In terms of combat, Charon's versatile hybrid of stealth and explosive gameplay makes him a favorite.
A-Tier Fallout 3 Companions
- Dogmeat
- Star Paladin Cross
- Sergeant RL-3
Dogmeat, the iconic canine companion, is Fallout 3’s rendition of man’s best friend. While not the most powerful in terms of combat, Dogmeat’s ability to find hidden items, fun nature, loyalty, and overall resilience endear him to players, especially early in the game. However, due to Dogmeat’s inadequate contribution on the offensive end, players can select a more advanced lifeform as a second companion to form a group of three.
Sergeant RL-3 and Star Paladin Cross are more suited to combat, each with heavy weaponry of their own. Cross shines more against super mutants and other heavily armored foes, and her strong moral compass means she's also best suited for good karma playthroughs.
Sarge’s militaristic personality provides some amusing dialogue, with his only drawback being a lack of nimbleness and agility in tight spaces. However, his sheer offensive firepower and value as a tank are more than enough compensation.
B-Tier Fallout 3 Companions
- Jericho
- Clover
Since their identities are closely tied to an evil playthrough, Jericho and Clover can only be acquired with Evil Karma. Jericho is a grizzled ex-raider with a love for violence, murder, and alcohol. He stands out early in the game with his abrasive and unappealing personality, and players who do not mind pursuing a darker storyline tend to gravitate toward him.
Despite his limited appeal, Jericho is a skilled combatant and a top-tier marksman with a rifle, making him a good companion for players who tend to get into dogfights. Clover is loyal as a slave and starts as one of the best companions in terms of carrying capacity. However, she soon becomes obsolete when leveling, and her reliance on melee combat means keeping her alive when the going gets tough is difficult.
C-Tier Fallout 3 Companions
- Butch DeLoria
Partnering with the Tunnel Snakes leader is more about nostalgia than utility. Butch is quite accessible and can be recruited after completing a specific quest. While he has a unique character arc and some humorous dialogue, his combat effectiveness is average at best as it does not scale as well late into the game compared to others. He also severely lacks health points, making him one of the weaker companions.
- Released
- October 28, 2008
- ESRB
- M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Sexual Themes, Strong Language, Use of Drugs
- Developer(s)
- Bethesda Game Studios
- Publisher(s)
- Bethesda Softworks
- Engine
- Gamebryo
- Franchise
- Fallout
