Allies & Sidekicks

In DC Universe Online, Allies and Sidekicks are invaluable companions that provide passive buffs, active combat abilities, and even unique movement modes or utility. Understanding how to acquire, upgrade, and effectively utilize them is crucial for both solo play and group content.

Acquiring Allies

Allies are obtained through various methods, primarily the in-game Marketplace, specific vendor purchases, or as rewards from certain content. They are account-bound and can be used by all characters on your account once unlocked.

Marketplace: The most common method. Navigate to the "Allies" tab in the Marketplace menu. Allies are often sold individually or in bundles. Keep an eye out for sales!
Vendor Purchases: Some Allies can be purchased from specialized vendors using specific currencies. For example:
- Justice League Dark Allies: Allies like John Constantine or Zatanna can sometimes be purchased from the House of Mystery Vendor using Daemonic Essences earned from the Justice League Dark content.
- Episode-Specific Vendors: New episodes often introduce new Allies, sometimes available from the episode's main vendor using its unique currency (e.g., Atlantean Crowns for Aquaman-themed Allies).
Promotional Events/Login Rewards: Occasionally, Daybreak Games offers free Allies as part of promotional events or daily login rewards. Always check your in-game mail and the official DCUO website for announcements.

Acquiring Sidekicks

Sidekicks are a distinct type of companion, often themed to iconic heroes or villains. They function similarly to Allies but may have different upgrade paths or specific requirements.

Marketplace: Like Allies, many Sidekicks are available for direct purchase in the Marketplace.
Episode Rewards: Certain episodes or seasonal events may offer Sidekicks as a reward for completing specific feats or collections. For instance, the Young Justice Sidekick might be a reward from a relevant event.
Base Item Vendors: Some Sidekicks are tied to base items or amenities. Check the Base Item Vendor in your Headquarters (Watchtower/Hall of Doom) for options that might include Sidekick summoning items.

Ally & Sidekick Types and Roles

Allies and Sidekicks come in various forms, each offering unique benefits:

Damage-Focused: These companions excel at dealing damage, providing extra DPS in combat. Examples include Lex Luthor (often with energy blasts) or Deathstroke (with precision attacks).
Support/Heal-Focused: Some Allies offer healing or defensive buffs, making them invaluable for survivability. Wonder Woman might provide a shield, while Doctor Fate could offer a small heal-over-time.
Utility/Movement: A select few Allies offer unique utility or even alternative movement modes. For example, Krypto might allow for faster travel in specific areas, or The Flash could grant a burst of speed.
Passive Buffs: All Allies and Sidekicks provide a passive buff even when not actively summoned. These buffs can range from increased damage to critical hit chance or defense. Always check an Ally's passive bonus before equipping!

Upgrading Allies & Sidekicks

To maximize the effectiveness of your companions, you'll need to upgrade them. This process involves using specific resources to increase their combat rating, unlock new abilities, and enhance their passive buffs.

Ally Upgrading

Allies are upgraded using Ally Favor and Exobytes.

Access the Ally Menu: Open your main menu and navigate to the "Allies" tab.
Select an Ally: Choose the Ally you wish to upgrade.
Spend Ally Favor: Ally Favor is the primary currency for leveling up Allies. It's earned by completing daily and weekly missions, participating in events, or purchasing it from the Marketplace. Each level requires a certain amount of Favor.
Apply Exobytes: At certain level thresholds (e.g., Level 10, 20, 30), Allies will require Exobytes to unlock new abilities or increase their star rating. Exobytes are obtained by salvaging gear, completing content, or purchasing them from the Marketplace.
- Standard Exobytes: Used for early-level upgrades.
- Focused Exobytes: Required for higher-level upgrades and specific ability unlocks.
- Perfect Exobytes: The rarest type, needed for the highest tiers of upgrades and ultimate ability enhancements.
Unlock Abilities: As your Ally levels up and reaches new star ratings, new active abilities will become available. These can be assigned to your Ally's active slots.

Sidekick Upgrading

Sidekicks often have a simpler upgrade path, typically tied to their specific item level or by applying Exobytes directly to their summoning item. Always check the item description or the Sidekick's dedicated menu for specific instructions.

Utilizing Allies & Sidekicks in Combat

Effective use of your companions can turn the tide of battle.

Summoning: Allies and Sidekicks are summoned via their respective items in your inventory or quickslots. Once summoned, they will follow you and engage in combat.
Active Abilities: Allies have up to three active abilities that can be triggered during combat. These are typically on a cooldown.
- Assigning Abilities: In the Ally menu, drag and drop the desired abilities into the active slots.
- Triggering Abilities: Once assigned, these abilities will automatically be used by your Ally when available and appropriate, or you can manually trigger them via a dedicated keybind (check your keybind settings).
Strategic Swapping: Don't be afraid to swap Allies based on the encounter. A damage-focused Ally might be best for clearing trash mobs, while a support Ally could be crucial for a tough boss fight.
Passive Benefits: Remember that even unsummoned Allies provide their passive buff. Equip the Ally with the most beneficial passive for your current build or content, even if you don't plan on actively summoning them.

Recommended Allies for New Players

While personal preference plays a huge role, here are some generally useful Allies for players just starting out or looking for reliable options:

Superman/Batman: Often available early on or through promotions, these iconic heroes provide solid all-around damage and decent passive buffs.
Oracle Bot/Parademon: These basic Allies are usually among the first you acquire and offer foundational support or damage. They are excellent for learning the Ally system without significant investment.
Any Healer/Support Ally: If you find yourself struggling with survivability, investing in an Ally that offers healing or shields can significantly improve your gameplay experience, especially for solo content.

Experiment with different Allies and Sidekicks to find the perfect companions that complement your playstyle and help you conquer the challenges of DC Universe Online!