Fallout 3 Followers: A Comprehensive Guide to the Capital Wasteland’s Companions
Meet the Companions of the Wasteland
The Capital Wasteland of *Fallout 3* is a harsh and unforgiving place. Radiation, Super Mutants, and Raiders lurk around every corner, making survival a constant struggle. While the Lone Wanderer may start their journey alone, they don’t have to stay that way. *Fallout 3* offers a diverse roster of companions, each with their own unique skills, personalities, and backstories, ready to lend a helping hand (or paw) in the fight for survival. Choosing the right companion can be the difference between life and death, making understanding each follower’s strengths and weaknesses crucial. This article will explore the companions available in *Fallout 3*, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and unique contributions to the Lone Wanderer’s harrowing adventure.
Each companion in *Fallout 3* brings something unique to the table. Some are skilled fighters, others offer valuable perks, and some simply provide a much-needed dose of personality to the desolate landscape. Here’s a breakdown of each available follower:
Butch DeLoria: Greaser with a Grudge
Butch DeLoria, the leader of the Tunnel Snakes, is a familiar face from Vault ten-one. He can be recruited after completing the quest “Trouble on the Homefront.” Butch is primarily a melee fighter, favoring close-quarters combat with his signature switchblade. His stats lean towards Strength and Endurance. He’s not the most strategically brilliant companion, but he can be a useful bodyguard in a pinch, especially if you’re playing a melee-focused character yourself. He tends to like aggressive actions and dislikes decisions that are perceived as weak or cowardly. Having Butch as a companion can be a nostalgic experience for players who connect to the early stages of *Fallout 3*.
Pros
Decent melee damage, familiar character.
Cons
Limited utility beyond combat, not very perceptive.
Ideal Playstyle
Melee-focused characters, players who enjoy a straightforward companion.
Dogmeat: Man’s Best Friend in the Apocalypse
Dogmeat is arguably the most beloved companion in *Fallout 3*. Found at the Scrapyard, this loyal canine is a valuable asset in combat and exploration. He can sniff out enemies, trigger traps, and even disarm mines. While his health isn’t the highest, Dogmeat’s ability to distract enemies and provide early warning makes him a valuable addition to any team. What’s more, Dogmeat doesn’t have any karma requirements, allowing you to make any decisions you want without worrying about him leaving your side. Dogmeat also gains a unique perk called “Puppy!” allowing you to acquire another Dogmeat from Vault ten-one if Dogmeat dies. He’s a perfect companion for any playstyle.
Pros
Versatile, loyal, no karma restrictions, “Puppy!” perk.
Cons
Relatively low health.
Ideal Playstyle
All playstyles.
Fawkes: The Intelligent Super Mutant
Fawkes is a unique and powerful companion found within Vault eighty-seven. This intelligent Super Mutant boasts high Strength, Endurance, and Big Guns skill. He’s an absolute tank in combat, capable of soaking up massive amounts of damage and dishing out devastating attacks with his Gatling Laser. Fawkes also has a surprisingly kind and thoughtful personality, making him a compelling companion despite his intimidating appearance. He prefers acts of kindness and generosity. This companion brings raw power and unexpected depth.
Pros
Extremely durable, high damage output, surprisingly insightful.
Cons
Can make combat too easy.
Ideal Playstyle
Players who want a powerful bodyguard.
Jericho: The Raider with a Past
Jericho, a former Raider, can be found in Megaton. He’s recruitable for a fee. Jericho is proficient with Small Guns and has a cynical outlook on the world. He is a more morally ambiguous character, preferring actions that benefit himself or display a ruthless approach. Jericho provides a unique perspective on the Wasteland, but his low karma preference may not align with players pursuing a heroic playthrough. Jericho represents a morally grey choice for those navigating the ethics of post-apocalyptic survival.
Pros
Decent combat skills, unique Raider perspective.
Cons
Low karma preference, limited utility beyond combat.
Ideal Playstyle
Players who are willing to embrace a darker path.
RL-3: The Mister Gutsy with an Attitude
RL-3 is a Mister Gutsy robot that can be acquired by completing the quest “Those!” in Grayditch. RL-3 specializes in Energy Weapons and has a sarcastic and often humorous personality. His high damage output and resistance to radiation make him a valuable asset in the Capital Wasteland. He provides comic relief, but he is often oblivious to danger. He is a unique and entertaining choice for any character build.
Pros
High damage output with Energy Weapons, radiation resistance.
Cons
Sarcastic personality may not appeal to everyone.
Ideal Playstyle
Players who appreciate a humorous companion.
Sergeant RL-3: The Even More Aggressive Mister Gutsy
Sergeant RL-3 is similar to RL-3 in terms of capabilities. They are both Mister Gutsy robots. The key difference is that Sergeant RL-3 is programmed for more aggressive combat. He favors Energy Weapons and boasts high damage output. His primary difference is that he is programmed for much more aggressive combat and boasts a personality that reflects that combat style. The choice between RL-3 and Sergeant RL-3 comes down to personal preference for combat style and personality. He is a force to be reckoned with.
Pros
High damage output with Energy Weapons, Aggressive Combat Style
Cons
Combat focused only, not very helpful for utility.
Ideal Playstyle
Combat heavy, characters who like aggressive companions.
Star Paladin Cross: The Loyal Brotherhood of Steel Knight
Star Paladin Cross is a member of the Brotherhood of Steel who can be recruited after reaching a certain point in the Brotherhood of Steel questline. She is a skilled combatant, proficient in both melee weapons and energy weapons. She also provides a valuable perk called “Power Armor Training,” which allows the player to wear Power Armor without suffering any penalties. She prefers noble acts and dislikes actions that are dishonorable or against the Brotherhood of Steel’s code. Star Paladin Cross embodies the ideals and strength of the Brotherhood of Steel.
Pros
Skilled in multiple combat styles, Power Armor Training perk.
Cons
Requires following the Brotherhood of Steel questline.
Ideal Playstyle
Players who align with the Brotherhood of Steel.
Choosing the Right Companion for Your Journey
Selecting the best companion in *Fallout 3* depends heavily on your playstyle, your character’s build, and your moral alignment. Each companion has strengths, weaknesses, and personality quirks that can significantly impact your experience in the Capital Wasteland. Below are some suggestions about followers best suited to specific playstyles.
The Best Follower for Good Karma Playthroughs
For players striving for a noble path, Star Paladin Cross is an excellent choice. Her dedication to the Brotherhood of Steel and her preference for morally sound decisions will ensure she remains a loyal and supportive companion. Additionally, her “Power Armor Training” perk is invaluable for players who want to utilize Power Armor without the usual stat penalties. Fawkes is also a viable pick for those following a good karma path.
The Ideal Follower for Stealth Builds
While *Fallout 3* doesn’t have a follower explicitly designed for stealth, Dogmeat can be surprisingly useful for stealth-oriented characters. His ability to sniff out enemies and distract them can create opportunities for the player to sneak past undetected. Just be mindful of his tendency to engage in combat, as this can compromise your stealth approach.
Best Companion for Melee-Focused Characters
Butch DeLoria’s melee proficiency and aggressive combat style make him a natural fit for melee-focused characters. He can act as a front-line fighter, drawing enemy fire while the player closes in for the kill. Fawkes is also a strong contender, offering incredible damage output and survivability in close-quarters combat.
Management and Keeping your Followers Alive
Managing your followers effectively is crucial for their survival and your overall success. Providing them with appropriate gear, such as weapons, armor, and healing items, is essential. Consider their preferred combat style and equip them accordingly. Keep their needs in mind, and they will be more effective in keeping you alive. Furthermore, understanding their behavioral patterns is important. Followers such as RL-3 will blindly charge ahead.
Bugs and Workarounds
*Fallout 3*, like any Bethesda game, has its share of bugs and glitches. Follower AI can sometimes be unpredictable, leading to pathfinding issues or bizarre behavior in combat. Occasionally, companions may become stuck in the environment or disappear altogether. Reloading a previous save is often the best solution for these issues. There are also unofficial patches available online that address many of the game’s bugs, including those affecting followers.
Mods to Enhance Your Follower Experience
The *Fallout 3* modding community has created numerous mods that enhance the follower system, add new companions, and improve follower AI. Some popular mods include those that allow you to have multiple followers, customize their appearances, and give them more detailed backstories. Exploring these mods can significantly enrich your *Fallout 3* experience.
Conclusion
The companions of *Fallout 3* are more than just extra muscle; they are integral to the game’s atmosphere and storytelling. They add depth, personality, and a sense of camaraderie to the often-bleak landscape of the Capital Wasteland. Understanding each companion’s strengths, weaknesses, and preferences is essential for building a strong and effective team. From the loyalty of Dogmeat to the philosophical musings of Fawkes, each follower offers a unique perspective on the world and contributes to the Lone Wanderer’s journey in their own way. So, choose wisely, equip them well, and venture forth into the wasteland, knowing that you are not alone. What *Fallout 3* follower is your go-to companion? Share your experiences in the comments below!
