Plarium Blog RPGs All Fallout 4 Companions: Locations, Loadouts, and Affinity Perks
Image depicting two Fallout 4 companions, Piper Wright, and Preston Garvey.

Fallout 4 is a post-apocalyptic action role-playing game (ARPG) set in a retro-futuristic world still recovering from a nuclear war. The game takes place in the year 2287 within a post-apocalyptic Boston and its surrounding areas. Fallout 4 companions add a layer to this narrative by bringing in a reliable ally who journeys with you.

Through branching storylines and an instantly recognizable aesthetic, Fallout 4 has made quite a name for itself as one of the highest-grossing games ever created. The game’s robust crafting system also adds depth to its gameplay mechanics, blending multiple subgenres to make for a huge game that’ll keep you busy for hours. 

Note: Minor spoilers for certain companions and their questlines ahead

Fallout 4 Companions

Role-playing games have a reputation for customizable aspects. While RPG classes are important, it’s also essential to consider the stats of your companion as you progress through the game. 

Fallout 4 followers have unique skills, storylines, and potential perks. As you travel with them, you increase your affinity, maximizing the bond between you. Fallout 4 companions’ likes and dislikes are equally important to keep in mind.

CompanionLocationAffinity Perk
Paladin DanseCambridge Police StationKnow Your Enemy: +20% damage against Feral Ghouls, Synths, and Super Mutants
Robert MacCreadyThe Third Rail, GoodneighborKillshot: +20% accuracy in V.A.T.S. when targeting an enemy’s head
CaitCombat Zone, BostonTrigger Rush: Faster AP regeneration when health is below the 25% mark
DeaconOld North Church (Railroad HQ)Cloak & Dagger: 20% sneak attack damage and 40% Stealth Boy duration
Piper WrightDiamond CityGift of Gab: Double XP for successful Charisma checks and discovering locations
Nick ValentineVault 114 (after the “Unlikely Valentine” quest)Close to Metal: +1 terminal hacking guess and 50% faster terminal cooldowns
CurieVault 81 (after the “Hole in the Wall” quest)Combat Medic: Heal 100 HP when health drops below 10%, once per 24 hours
Preston Garvey Museum of Freedom, ConcordUnited We Stand: +20% damage and +20% Damage Resistance when facing three or more enemies at once
John HancockGoodneighbor (after “The Big Dig” quest)Isodoped: 20% faster Critical Hit accumulation when rads are at 250 or higher
CodsworthSanctuary HillsRobot Sympathy: +10 Energy Resistance against robot energy weapons
X6-88Libertalia (during the “Synth Retention” quest)Shield Harmonics: +20 Energy Resistance
DogmeatRed Rocket Truck ShopDoes not grant any perks
StrongTrinity TowerBerserk: +20% melee damage when health is below 25%
Ada (Automatron)Wattz Consumer Electronics (from the Automatron DLC)Does not grant any particular perks
Automatron Robot CompanionConstructed at a Robot WorkbenchDoes not grant any particular perks
Old Longfellow (Far Harbor)Far Harbor (after the “Walk in the Park” quest)Hunter’s Wisdom: -25% Damage and Energy Resistance of animals and sea creatures
Porter Gage (Nuka-World)Nuka-World (after “An Ambitious Plan” quest)Lessons in Blood: +5% XP per kill and +10 Damage and Energy Resistance
89,998,207 RAID PLAYERS GLOBALLY. JOIN THEM!

1. Paladin Danse

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting Paladin Danse, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationCambridge Police Station
AbilitiesExpert in Power Armor combat, proficient with energy weapons
Loadoutquipped with T-60 Power Armor and a unique laser rifle
Affinity PerkKnow Your Enemy: +20% damage against Feral Ghouls, Synths, and Super Mutants
Questline“Blind Betrayal”: Explores Danse’s identity crisis and his loyalty to the Brotherhood
How To RecruitHelp him during “Fire Support,” complete “Call to Arms,” and “Semper Invicta.” He becomes available as a companion after “Shadow of Steel.”
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsStrength: 5
Perception: 10
Endurance: 8
Charisma: 6
Intelligence: 8
Agility: 10
Luck: 7
LikesPower Armor use, weapon and armor mods, and honorable decisions
DislikesChem usage, violence towards innocents, hacking, and lockpicking

Of all the companions Fallout 4 has to offer, Paladin Danse may just be the most honorable. He’s defined by discipline, strength, and a lot of conviction. While his no-nonsense philosophy is a big part of his personality, his identity crisis during the quest “Blind Betrayal” reveals a deeper layer to his psyche.

Danse shines in open firefights, thanks to his Power Armor and laser-based weapons. He’s best utilized on the frontline, where his offensive capabilities can be put to great use. He’s a great companion for those who enjoy using energy weapons.

2. Robert MacCready

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting Robert MacCready, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationVIP Lounge of The Third Rail in Goodneighbor
AbilitiesAn expert marksman who specializes in long-range combat and excels at using sniper rifles
LoadoutEquipped with a Sniper Rifle, MacCready’s Duster, and MacCready’s Hat
Affinity PerkKillshot: +20% accuracy in V.A.T.S. when targeting an enemy’s head
Questline“Long Road Ahead”: A personal quest that involves MacCready’s past and his efforts to find a cure for his ill son
How To RecruitYou can hire him for 250 caps (or 200, if you have a successful Charisma check) after speaking with him in The Third Rail.
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsStrength: 5
Perception: 10
Endurance: 9
Charisma: 7
Intelligence: 7
Agility: 10
Luck: 8
LikesLockpicking doors/containers, stealing, passing speech checks that include intimidation or requests for more caps
DislikesChem addiction, killing non-hostile NPCs, donating items, and peaceful dialogue choices

A lot of Fallout 4 companion perks feature important stat boosts, and Robert gets those through his sharpshooting skills. While he is a seasoned mercenary, he has a complex past that plays into the game’s narrative. During his personal quest, he delves deeper into his motivations, which in turn give the player a reason to venture deeper into the game.

In combat, Robert excels at long-range engagements, making him the perfect companion for those who prefer stealth and sniping tactics rather than aggressive attacks. To maximize his efficiency, make sure you engage in activities that he approves of while also honing your precision-based build. 

3. Cait

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting Cait, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationCombat Zone, east of Diamond City
AbilitiesSkilled in melee combat and lockpicking, can pick locks of any difficulty, as long as she has with bobby pins
LoadoutUsually equipped with a double-barrel shotgun, can also use chems from her inventory
Affinity PerkTrigger Rush: Faster AP regeneration when health is below the 25% mark
Questline“Benign Intervention”: Cait seeks your help to overcome her chem addiction by finding a cure in Vault 95
How To RecruitClear out all the raiders in Combat Zone, and speak to Tommy to acquire Cait’s contract. She then becomes available as a companion
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsStrength: 5
Perception: 10
Endurance: 7
Charisma: 7
Intelligence: 7
Agility: 10
Luck: 7
LikesLockpicking, using chems (before completing the “Benign Intervention” quest, drinking alcohol, and assertive dialogue choices
DislikesGenerous or peaceful actions, helping ghouls or mutants, getting addicted to chems

A story like Cait’s makes Fallout 4 a special RPG. She had an abusive childhood and later became a cage fighter in the Combat Zone. While she has a tough exterior, her deeply troubled past lets her seek redemption and a better life. Helping her personal journey lets you form a deeper bond with her, unlocking her unique abilities.

She excels at close-quarters combat, making her an ideal companion for players who rely on melee-based combat mechanics. Her ability to pick locks of any difficulty can be a highly efficient skill when accessing restricted areas and loot. To maximize her abilities, engage in activities she approves of and help her complete her personal quest.

4. Deacon

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting Deacon, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationOld North Church (Railroad HQ)
AbilitiesMaster of disguise and stealth, excels in infiltration
LoadoutEquipped with a silenced sniper rifle, wears a variety of disguises
Affinity PerkCloak & Dagger: 20% sneak attack damage and 40% Stealth Boy duration
Questline“Tradecraft”: Dives into the player’s deeper involvement with the Railroad and showcases Deacon’s espionage skills
How To RecruitJoin the Railroad once you complete the “Road to Freedom” quest, and assist Deacon in the “Tradecraft” quest.
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsStrength: 5
Perception: 10
Endurance: 7
Charisma: 9
Intelligence: 8
Agility: 10
Luck: 8
LikesHacking terminals, picking locks, and making morally flexible choices
DislikesHarming innocents, working with the Brotherhood of Steel, or the Institute

As you complete Fallout 4 companion quests, you’ll uncover a lot of lore regarding the organizations that exist in the game. This is akin to playing a massively multiplayer online (MMO), and Deacon is a great example of a character who links different stories. He often shares conflicting stories about his past, making it difficult for you to truly understand his origins. However, he is deeply committed to the Railroad’s values.

During gameplay, he excels at stealth-based roles. He’s an incredible companion to have if you’re approaching Fallout 4’s combat with a stealthy perspective. To maximize his efficiency, engage in activities that align with the Railroad’s objectives, such as freeing synths and undermining the Institute.

5. Piper Wright

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting Piper Wright, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationOutside the gates of Diamond City
AbilitiesProficient with small firearms, offers insightful commentary and moral perspectives
LoadoutEquipped with a 10mm Pistol, Press Cap, and Trench Coat
Affinity PerkGift of Gab: Double XP for successful Charisma checks and discovering locations
Questline“Story of the Century”: As Piper interviews the Sole Survivor (you, the protagonist), she becomes available as a companion
How To RecruitMeet her at Diamond City’s entrance, assist her in gaining entry, and then visit her office to complete the interview quest.
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsStrength: 5
Perception: 10
Endurance: 7
Charisma: 10
Intelligence: 8
Agility: 10
Luck: 4
LikesHelping innocents, joining the Minutemen or Railroad, peaceful resolutions, and picking unowned locks
DislikesStealing, lying, and supporting the
Institute or Brotherhood of Steel, picking owned locks

Piper Wright is a reporter dedicated to uncovering the truth in Fallout 4’s post-apocalyptic world. She runs a newspaper alongside her younger sister, Nat. Her commitment to exposing corruption often puts her in a difficult position against the authorities, notably Mayor McDonough. Her will and determination make her one of Fallout 4’s best companions early on in the game, especially since many players are determined to know the truth behind everything that happened before they arrived.

She serves a balanced role during gameplay, providing support in combat while also enhancing the player’s acquired experience thanks to her Gift of Gab perk. To build a strong relationship with her, you need to be committed to helping others as well as reflect honesty and generosity in your behavior. If you play your cards right, Piper can also be open to a romantic relationship.

6. Nick Valentine

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting Nick Valentine, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationVault 114
AbilitiesSkilled hacker, possesses high durability and resilience in combat
LoadoutEquipped with a unique 0.44 revolver and his signature outfit
Affinity PerkClose to Metal: +1 terminal hacking guess and 50% faster terminal cooldowns
Questline“Long Time Coming”: Involves tracking down Eddie Winter’s holotapes in order to confront Nick’s past
How To RecruitRescue him during the quest “Unlikely Valentine” and complete the “Getting a Clue” quest.
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsStrength: 5
Perception: 10
Endurance: 8
Charisma: 8
Intelligence: 16
Agility: 10
Luck: 8
LikesHacking terminals, donating items, helping others, and making morally good choices
DislikesStealing, pickpocketing, and killing non-hostile characters

Nick is a pre-war prototype synth who embraces his role as a detective. He operates in the Valentine Detective Agency in Diamond City, assisting those who need his help. His unique perspective as a synth (with a human touch) allows him to empathize with others and helps him make compassionate choices, especially when he acts as your companion.

During gameplay, he thrives as a hacker and ranged combatant. Thanks to his perk, you can focus on terminal hacking with the help of extra guesses that reduce lockout times. To maximize his efficiency, engage in actions that reflect kindness and integrity. The more empathetic you are, the better your bond with Nick.

7. Curie

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting Curie, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationVault 81
AbilitiesEquipped with laser weaponry at first, later with armor and a wide range of weapons as a synth
LoadoutEquipped with laser weaponry at first, later transitions into a synth body
Affinity PerkCombat Medic: Heal 100 HP when health drops below 10%, once per 24 hours
Questline“Emergent Behavior”: Curie wishes to transfer her consciousness into a synth body to experience human emotions and sensations
How To RecruitAs a robot, through a built-in laser and buzzsaw. As a synth, customizable through any weapons and armor provided by you
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsStrength: 4 (as synth: 5)
Perception: 4 
Endurance: 4
Charisma: 4
Intelligence: 11 (as synth: 4)
Agility: 4
Luck: 4
LikesHelping others, resolving conflicts peacefully, healing Dogmeat, joining the Brotherhood of Steel or the Minutemen
DislikesStealing, pickpocketing, chem addiction, killing non-hostile characters, supporting the Institute

Curie is a Miss Nanny robot with a passion for science and discovery. After years of isolation in Vault 81, she yearns for novelty and wishes to further her research. Her transformation into a synth body during the “Emergent Behavior” quest leads her to experience what it feels like to be human, adding much more depth to her character and interactions, and adding a layer to the game’s narrative.

When in combat, Curie is quite versatile. As a robot, she makes the best of her built-in laser and buzzsaw. However, after her transformation, she is equipped with a variety of weapons and armor. In order to build an efficient relationship with her, engage in altruistic actions and resolve conflicts peacefully.

8. Preston Garvey

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting Preston Garvey, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationMuseum of Freedom in Concord
AbilitiesProficient with laser muskets, useful in rebuilding the Minutemen faction
LoadoutEquipped with a Laser Musket and a Minutemen General’s uniform
Affinity PerkUnited We Stand: +20% damage and +20% Damage Resistance when facing three or more enemies at once
Questline“Taking Independence”: When retaking the Castle, an important moment when restoring the Minutemen’s presence in the Commonwealth
How To RecruitAssist him during the “When Freedom Calls” quest, then complete “The First Step” quest, and he will offer his companionship.
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsStrength: 5
Perception: 10
Endurance: 7
Charisma: 9
Intelligence: 8
Agility: 10
Luck: 8
LikesHelping others, donating items, making peaceful decisions, and modifying weapons
DislikesStealing, chem addiction, pickpocketing, and killing non-hostile characters

Preston is a dedicated soldier who has been through the rise and fall of the Minutemen. His unwavering commitment to protecting the innocent and rebuilding the Commonwealth’s communities makes him an important character in Fallout 4. He seeks your assistance several times throughout the game. If he annoys you with the words, “Another settlement needs your help,” avoid shooting him in the face.

During gameplay, Preston’s focus on settlement-building and community support helps shape the game’s narrative. His perk helps you in situations involving multiple enemies. In order to build a stronger relationship with him, you must avoid morally questionable behaviors and assist settlements that need it.

9. John Hancock

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting John Hancock, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationOld State House in Goodneighbor
AbilitiesProficient with energy weapons, has high resilience due to being a ghoul, and provides unique dialogue during certain situations
LoadoutEquipped with a Double-Barrel Shotgun
Affinity PerkIsodoped: 20% faster Critical Hit accumulation when rads are at 250 or higher
Questline“The Big Dig”: Confrontation with Hancock leads to his companionship
How To RecruitComplete the quest “The Big Dig” in Goodneighbor after resolving the situation with Bobbi No-Nose.
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsStrength: 5
Perception: 10
Endurance: 8
Charisma: 9
Intelligence: 14
Agility: 10
Luck: 8
LikesPeaceful and generous decisions, helping the Railroad, using chems, freeing synths
DislikesKilling innocent NPCs, stealing, and any action that may harm innocents

John is often disillusioned by his brother’s anti-ghoul policies, and ended up transforming himself into one by going through experimental drug use. As a self-appointed mayor of Goodneighbor, he actively supports individuality and freedom, providing a safe haven for those who feel like outcasts in the world of Fallout 4.

During gameplay, he acts as a versatile companion who excels at combat and offers unique insights to many of the game’s moral dilemmas. His perk is quite beneficial for those who wish to engage in radiation-heavy gameplay strategies. To make the most of his companionship, engage in actions that promote freedom and aid the oppressed. 

10. Codsworth

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting Codsworth, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationSanctuary Hills
AbilitiesImmune to radiation and poison, it can provide purified water periodically
LoadoutEquipped with a built-in flamethrower and buzzsaw
Affinity PerkRobot Sympathy: +10 Energy Resistance against robot energy weapons
Questline“Out of Time”: Assists you during the early hours of the game
How To RecruitSpeak with Codsworth once you exit Vault 111, and he becomes a companion after the initial conversation.
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsStrength: 9
Perception: 10
Endurance: 7
Charisma: 7
Intelligence: 16
Agility: 10
Luck: 7
LikesHelping others, lawful actions, crafting weapon and armor modifications, healing Dogmeat
DislikesStealing, lying, chem use, killing innocents, asking for additional rewards

Fallout 4’s interactive storytelling encourages you to meet fascinating personalities — robots and humans — who help you understand the world better. Codsworth is one of the first companions you’ll meet in the game, who faithfully maintained the protagonist’s home for over two centuries following the Great War. His unique charm and insightful commentary on the changed world will lighten up the narrative as you progress. What a wholesome robot! 

When in combat, Codsworth makes use of his built-in flamethrower and buzzsaw, best suited for close-combat scenarios. While he may not excel at more serious combat encounters, his innate resistances and abilities make him a worthwhile companion. Just make sure you engage in altruistic actions and avoid morally questionable choices when he’s around.

11. X6-88

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting X6-88, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationThe Institute
AbilitiesHighly skilled in ranged combat, proficient with energy weapons, with impressive perception and endurance
LoadoutEquipped with a Courser Uniform, Patrolman Sunglasses, and an Institute Rifle
Affinity PerkShield Harmonics: +20 Energy Resistance
Questline“Synth Retention”: Assists in retrieving a runaway synth
“The Nuclear Option” – Involved if you side with the Institute
How To RecruitComplete the quest “Mankind – Redefined” and attend the Directorate meeting in the Institute. That’s where X6-88 will be available as a companion.
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsStrength: 16
Perception: 18
Endurance: 17
Charisma: 8
Intelligence: 10
Agility: 18
Luck: 8
LikesEntering Power Armor, hacking terminals, modifying armor and weapons, and assisting the Institute
DislikesUsing chems, donating items, and entering Vertibirds

As a third-generation synth, X6-88 serves as one of the Institute’s most elite operatives. He’s trained for high-risk retrieval missions and practices the Institute’s ideals of efficiency and order. He’s often stoic and mission-focused, rarely displaying any kind of emotion, but he can be a trustworthy and formidable ally.

When in combat, he excels at using energy weapons, and his perk lets you enjoy resistance to energy damage. In order to build a stronger bond with him, you must align with his values. This involves utilizing Power Armor, avoiding behaviors he disapproves of, such as using chems or engaging in altruistic acts.

12. Dogmeat

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting Dogmeat, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationRed Rocket Truck Shop
AbilitiesExceptional tracking skills (can locate enemies and items), capable of pinning enemies
LoadoutCan wear dog-specific gear like bandanas, armor, or goggles for aesthetic purposes
Affinity PerkDoes not grant any perks
QuestlineAssists in the “Reunions” quest by tracking Kellogg, and plays a role in the “Getting a Clue” quest
How To RecruitApproach and interact with Dogmeat when you reach the Red Rocket Trust Stop. He will immediately become your companion.
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsStrength: 4
Perception: 14
Endurance: 4
Charisma: 4
Intelligence: 8
Agility: 14
Luck: 4
Likes
Being petted, following you around, assisting in combat, and exploration
DislikesNone. Dogmeat does not judge!

At the beginning of Fallout 4, you meet Dogmeat, a German Shepherd who becomes one of the first companions in the game. His unwavering loyalty and combat assistance make him an incredible ally, especially in the dangerous landscapes of the Commonwealth. Remember, Dogmeat is immortal and does not require you to manage his affinity levels. Even some of the best MMORPGs don’t have a reliable companion like him! 

In combat, Dogmeat can distract and pin enemies, giving you the opportunity to strike when the time is right. His ability to detect hidden items and threats improves your overall exploration in the game. Fortunately, his compatibility with the Lone Wanderer perk offers you the benefits of increased damage resistance and carry weight without sacrificing the companionship.

13. Strong

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting Strong, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationTrinity Tower
AbilitiesExcels in melee combat, proficient with heavy weapons (like missile launchers and miniguns)
LoadoutEquipped with a Super Sledge, can only wear super mutant armor
Affinity PerkBerserk: +20% melee damage when health is below 25%
Questline“Curtain Call”: Assists in rescuing Rex Goodman from Trinity Tower
How To RecruitComplete the “Curtain Call” quest, and Strong will offer his companionship.
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsStrength: 24
Perception: 12
Endurance: 8
Charisma: 1
Intelligence: 6
Agility: 18
Luck: 1
Likes
Violent and aggressive actions, helping settlers through combat, using the Cannibal perk
DislikesStealing, pickpocketing, using Power Armor, and non-violent solutions to problems

Strong is a super mutant who believes that by finding and consuming the “milk of human kindness,” super mutants can gain the strength of humans. This leads him on a quest to ally with you, the Sole Survivor, in hopes of uncovering the secret of human strength. 

When in combat, Strong is an impressive melee fighter, capable of dealing significant damage with heavy weapons. His perk enhances his capabilities when his health is low, making him even more dangerous in close-combat scenarios. However, instead of doing things calmly like in a turn-based RPG, Strong prefers a direct approach. In order to strengthen your relationship with him, avoid non-violent ways of approaching situations.

14. Ada (Automatron)

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting Ada, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationOutside Wattz Consumer Electronics
AbilitiesFully customizable at the Robot Workbench
LoadoutCan be equipped with various weapons and utility modules, which include lockpicking and hacking capabilities
Affinity PerkDoes not grant any particular perks
QuestlineAn important personality in the Automatron DLC quests: “A New Threat,” “Mechanical Menace,” “Headhunting,” and “Restoring Order”
How To RecruitOnce you assist her during the “Mechanical Menace” quest, she will join you to stop the Mechanist.
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsStrength: 9
Perception: 5
Endurance: 1
Charisma: 1
Intelligence: 7
Agility: 10
Luck: 1
Likes
Neutral to your actions
DislikesNeutral to your actions

Ada is a heavily modified Assaultron, originally serving as a caravan guard and mechanic. After her caravan is destroyed by the Machinist’s forces, she seeks your help to stop the ongoing robot attacks. Her unique design allows you to customize her arsenal and use her functions extensively as you explore the game.

During gameplay, her custom features take the spotlight. You can modify her with all sorts of armor, weaponry, and utility modules to suit the playstyle you want to implement. Since she’s neutral to your in-game choices, her companionship does not require you to constantly manage affinity levels.

15. Automatron Robot Companion

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting Automatron Robot Companion, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationConstructed at a Robot Workbench
AbilitiesHighly customizable
LoadoutCan be equipped with various armor, weapons, and utility modules, including hacking and lockpicking capabilities
Affinity PerkDoes not grant any particular perks
QuestlineImportant part of the Automatron DLC quests: “A New Threat,” “Mechanical Menace,” “Headhunting,” and “Restoring Order”
How To RecruitOnce you’ve completed the “Mechanical Menace” quest, you can build this companion at any Robot Workbench.
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsDepends on the chosen parts and configuration during construction
LikesNo preferences
DislikesNo preferences

Automatron companions are robotic allies you can design and build using the Robot Workshop introduced in the Automatron DLC. These reliable companions offer a lot of customization — everything from equipping powerful weaponry to adding modules of your liking.
During gameplay, this companion excels at adaptability. You can choose which kind of playstyle you prefer to excel at, and use parts that can be sourced from different robot models, such as Sentry Bots, Protectrons, and Assaultrons. Being one of the top ARPGs ever created, Fallout 4 thrives at this kind of open-ended approach to combat, and Automatron adds to that flexibility.

16. Old Longfellow (Far Harbor)

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting Old Longfellow, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationThe Last Plank bar in Far Harbor
AbilitiesSkilled marksman, provides unique insights into the Island’s dangers, and offers guidance through the Fog
LoadoutEquipped with a Lever-Action Rifle, wears a Hunter’s Long Coat
Affinity PerkHunter’s Wisdom: -25% Damage and Energy Resistance of animals and sea creatures
Questline“Shipbreaker”: Assists in tracking and defeating a strong sea creature
How To RecruitSpeak with him at The Last Plant and complete the “Walk in the Park” quest.
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsStrength: 5
Perception: 7
Endurance: 7
Charisma: 7
Intelligence: 7
Agility: 10
Luck: 7
LikesDrinking alcohol, asking for additional caps during quests, helping settlements, and healing Dogmeat
DislikesUsing chems, stealing, pickpocketing, killing, or harming non-hostile characters

Old Longfellow is a legendary hunter and a guide native to the Island. His deep knowledge of the region and its perils make him a valuable companion. Even with his obsession with whiskey and rough personality, his sense of responsibility and desire to pass down knowledge make him a reliable character. 

He excels at ranged combat during gameplay. His perk is particularly useful when facing wildlife threats on the Island. To build a better relationship with him, engage in actions he approves of (like drinking alcohol, except for beer), assist settlements, and make assertive dialogue choices. 

17. Porter Gage (Nuka-World)

Screenshot from Fallout 4 depicting Porter Gage, one of the recruitable companions.
LocationNuka-Town USA
AbilitiesSkilled in ranged combat, can act as a vendor in Nuka-World
LoadoutEquipped with Gage’s Armor, Gage’s Eyepatch, and a Handmade Rifle
Affinity PerkLessons in Blood: +5% XP per kill and +10 Damage and Energy Resistance
Questline“An Ambitious Plan”: Assists in organizing the rader gangs in order to take over the Commonwealth
How To RecruitCompleting “An Ambitious Plan” quest will make Gage available as a companion.
S.P.E.C.I.A.L. StatsStrength: 7
Perception: 9
Endurance: 7
Charisma: 3
Intelligence: 6
Agility: 8
Luck: 7
LikesStealing, lockpicking, modifying weapons, being selfish or violent in dialogue, and completing raider faction quests
DislikesHelping settlements, using chems, donating items, being generous, or being peaceful in dialogue

Porter Gage is a hardened raider who serves as the right-hand man to the Overboss in Nuka-World. After witnessing the chaotic nature of raider gangs, Gage seeks a leader who can bring efficiency and order to their workings. His pragmatic approach to survival and leadership shapes him as a reliable ally, perfect for players who wish to embrace the raider lifestyle. 

While some companions make your action-adventure journey honorable, the same can’t be said for Porter Gage. He is proficient with automatic weapons, which are great for most close-range engagements. However, your actions must reflect his values if you want to build a solid bond with him. Choosing personal gain over altruism is the way to go. 

How To Choose the Best Companion for Your Playstyle

In Fallout 4, your ideal companion depends on your preferred combat style and overall build. If you’re a stealth-focused player, go for Deacon! His Cloak & Dagger perk boosts your sneak attack damage, as well as Stealth Boy effectiveness. On the other hand, if you’re looking to play aggressively, Strong’s Berserk perk improves your damage when health is low. 

For a hybrid playstyle, try Curie and Codsworth. Curie’s Combat Medic perk heals you automatically when you’re critically low on health. Codsworth offers a powerful early-game combat utility, thanks to his built-in flamethrowers. Dogmeat, your loyal fluffy friend, is also an amazing option for a companion during the early hours of the game.

In general, you should pick a companion who aligns with your values and the kind of assistance they provide. Some offer moral alignment, while others help you with the basics (such as picklocking or hacking). Ultimately, you want a companion who affects your journey and makes the world feel more alive.  

Tips for Maximizing Companion Relationships

Different companions and their relationships may seem like MMO and MMORPG differences: distinguishable but with familiar traits written all over them. A hidden reputation system is common among most companions and tracks how much a companion likes or dislikes your actions. Whether you’re picking a lock, donating items, or simply taking a sip of that cold beer, they’re watching — even if it’s a little creepy to think about. 

To max out affinity quickly, focus on repeatedly doing actions that favor a companion’s values. For instance, Preston loves it when you help settlements, while Nick likes it when you support synth freedom. On that note, when companions are ready to talk about their lives, engage in that conversation. The more you know about them, the better! 

Dive Into Immersive Journeys Through Fantasy Worlds

Fallout 4 companions may just be the reason why the game is so enjoyable, even years after its release. The RPG mechanics in the game favor your actions and conversations with them, and it’s important for players to keep in mind how their companions play into the gameplay loop.

Fallout 4 can feel like a challenging solo gameplay experience, but you’re not alone when you have the right companion at your side. Remember that you can always switch between companions, even though you can only have one following you at a time. 

As you venture through the realm of RPGs, make sure you check out a vast collection of games that offer similar, open-ended gameplay experiences. 

Explore More