A great companion character can turn a solo adventure into an unforgettable journey. It could be providing critical support in battle, offering emotional depth to the story, or even making jokes at the right time. The best companions become more than just sidekicks and become icons in their own right.
Gaming has given us an incredible lineup of partners who stick by our side through thick and thin, making our victories feel sweeter and our defeats a little less painful. From wise-cracking robots to loyal pets fromFalloutand battle-hardened allies, these companions make every mission, quest, or battle feel more personal.
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Throughout the years, players have formed strong connections with these digital allies through their witty dialogue, endearing personalities, and sheer usefulness in the heat of action. Some of them have guided us through the most treacherous worlds, while others have kept us entertained with their shenanigans.
Their presence enhances gameplay in unique ways through strategic advantages, emotional support, or sheer entertainment. In this list, we’re counting down the best companion characters in gaming, ranked not just by their popularity but by the impact they’ve had on players. Get ready to relive some of the best moments with gaming’s greatest companions.
10Claptrap
The Metal Trouble Magnet
Borderlands 2
Few gaming companions are asunique as Claptrap. The talkative, one-wheeled robot from the Borderlands series is both hilarious and annoying, but there’s no denying that he leaves an impression. He guides players through Pandora’s wastelands or delivers long-winded dialogue filled with snark and self-importance. Claptrap makes sure that he talks…constantly. His overly dramatic personality and tendency to get himself (and players) into trouble make him an unforgettable part of the experience.
Despite his grating voice and questionable survival skills, Claptrap is, at his core, a loyal companion. He provides mission objectives, opens doors, and occasionally offers assistance in combat, even if it’s more accidental than intentional. While his antics may sometimes push players' patience, there’s no denying that a Borderlands game without Claptrap would feel incomplete. Love him or hate him, he’s one of gaming’s most recognizable sidekicks.
The Son Who Succeeds
God of War
When God of War (2018) reintroduced Kratos as a father, Atreus became more than just a companion. Initially seen as a boy struggling to live up to his father’s expectations, Atreus quickly proves his worth as a worthy archer, a knowledgeable guide, and more importantly, a son who teaches Kratos what it means to be human. His evolution throughout the game is an interesting aspect of the story, making players genuinely care about his well-being.
Atreus isn’t just there for emotional depth, and he becomes an incredibly useful partner in combat. His arrows distract enemies and reveal weaknesses in unbreakable foes. As his abilities develop alongside the narrative, he transitions from a dependent child to a formidable warrior. His dynamic with Kratos creates some of the most memorable moments in modern gaming, proving that sometimes, the best companions are family.
Meow, MEOW, MMMMREEOOW
Monster Hunter Wilds
Did you know that there is an option inMonster Hunter Wildsfor the Palico to speak human language or their signature meowing language?
The Monster Hunter series is filled with massive beasts and big battles, but a beloved element is the Palico, a loyal feline companion who fights alongside hunters. These cat-like warriors aren’t just there for show; they provide invaluable support by healing, distracting monsters, and even crafting gear to aid in the hunt. Customizable in both appearance and abilities, Palicos become an extension of the player, making them feel less like a lone hunter and more like part of a team.
Beyond the battle, Palicos brings a level of charm and personality to the game that keeps things from becoming too serious. With their adorable outfits, hilarious animations, and dedication, these little warriors have earned a place in the hearts of hunting fans worldwide. From wielding adorable weapons or napping mid-hunt, Palicos prove that the best companions come in small, furry packages.
The Cube That Cares
NieR: Automata
NieR: Automata is a game filled with philosophical questions, deep emotional weight, and stunning combat sequences, and at the heart of it all is Pod. More than just an AI assistant, Pod is a steadfast companion to 2B and 9S, providing tactical support and combat enhancements while also offering unexpected moments of emotional depth. Though initially designed as a purely functional entity, Pod develops a sense of awareness and even empathy, creating a subtle yet powerful connection with the player.
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In combat, Pod is an indispensable ally, allowing players to execute ranged attacks, deploy shields, and perform devastating special moves. Outside of battle, its commentary and interactions with the main characters add layers of meaning to the story. In a world filled with loss and existential questions, Pod serves as a reminder that even artificial beings can form meaningful bonds. The game has alsoexperienced huge, commercial success as of recently.
More Than Just an AI
Halo: Combat Evolved
Cortana is the emotional anchor of the Halo series (which is known forhaving some of the best games). As the AI companion to Master Chief, she provides tactical support, mission objectives, and crucial exposition, but her role goes far beyond that. Over the course of the series, her relationship with Chief evolves into something deeply personal, highlighting the bond between man and machine in ways rarely explored in gaming. Her wit, intelligence, and eventual struggles with rampancy make her one of the most complex and beloved AI characters in the medium.
Cortana doesn’t fight alongside the player, but her guidance is invaluable. She translates alien languages, hacks into enemy systems, and provides the motivation that drives the narrative forward. Her impact on Halo is undeniable, and her story arc remains memorable in gaming history. For Master Chief and for players, Cortana is more to the player than just AI; She’s a core part of the journey.
The Silent but Deadly
Metal Gear Solid 5 The Phantom Pain
Quiet is one of the most mysterious companions in Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain. As a silent but deadly sniper with supernatural abilities, she provides essential backup on missions, taking down enemies with unmatched precision. Her enhanced agility and ability to become nearly invisible make her an invaluable ally in the field, capable of shifting the tide of battle in Snake’s favor.
Her story, however, is where she truly shines. Despite her inability to speak, she conveys emotion through her actions, forming a deep bond with Snake over time. Her tragic backstory and ultimate sacrifice make her one of the most memorable and impactful characters in the Metal Gear series. Whether watching your back in combat or silently expressing her devotion, Quiet is the definition of a companion who leaves a lasting impression in one of thebest open world games out there.
The Best Boy
Dogmeat is a lifeline in the brutal world of Fallout. As one of the most iconic canine companions in gaming (along withsome other great pets), he aids the player by detecting enemies, finding items, and attacking threats. His unwavering loyalty and ability to adapt to different gameplay styles make him an invaluable partner throughout the Wasteland.
Unlike many other companions, Dogmeat isn’t bound by dialogue trees or mission constraints and follows you out of pure devotion. This makes him feel more like a real, loyal friend rather than just another NPC. It could be you need an extra pair of eyes, a protector, or simply a comforting presence in a dangerous world…Dogmeat has your back. His simple but powerful presence cements him as one of the greatest companions in gaming history.
The Fungal Nightmare
The Last of Us Part I
Ellie is the emotional heartbeat of The Last of Us. Her bond with Joel forms the core of the game’s powerful narrative, as she evolves from a naive child into a hardened survivor. Her quick wit, humor, and moments of vulnerability make her one of gaming’s most relatable and compelling characters.
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Not only does Ellie contribute to the story, but she also plays an active role in combat. She scavenges for supplies, distracts enemies, and even takes down foes herself when needed. In The Last of Us Part II, players experience her story firsthand, further cementing her as a well-rounded and deeply impactful character. Her resilience and growth make her one of gaming’s most unforgettable companions.
The Trusty Dino
Super Mario World
Yoshi has been Mario’s loyal sidekick since Super Mario World (with Yoshi’s latest outingbeing Yoshi’s Wooly World), offering more than just a ride across treacherous landscapes. This adorable dinosaur brings unique gameplay mechanics, including his flutter jump, tongue-grabbing abilities, and the power to transform by eating different objects. His presence adds variety and fun to Mario’s adventures, making him a fan favorite for decades.
Yoshi’s role extends beyond just mechanics and his cheerful personality and unwavering support make him one of the most beloved characters in gaming. Whether he’s saving Baby Mario, racing in karts, or starring in his own platforming adventures, Yoshi’s versatility and charm cement his place as one of the greatest companions of all time.
The Ultimate Sidekick Flies, Swims, and Dies for You
Sonic Mania
Since his debut in Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (but has been seenmore recently in a Super Monkey Ball game), Tails has been the epitome of the perfect sidekick. With his twin tails that allow him to fly and his remarkable mechanical skills, he is far more than just Sonic’s tag-along. Whether he’s piloting the Tornado biplane, helping to defeat Dr. Robotnik, or using his inventions to assist in battle, Tails proves time and again that he is an invaluable companion.
What makes Tails truly stand out is his unwavering loyalty and desire to grow into his own hero. He may have started as Sonic’s admirer, but over time, he has stepped up as an independent adventurer, showing courage and intelligence beyond his years. His charm, dependability, and impact on the franchise make him the ultimate gaming companion, securing his place at the top of this list.
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