Beyond the standard followers available in most towns, Skyrim offers a selection of unique companions with their own distinct personalities, backstories, and even personal quests. These companions can provide valuable assistance in combat, carry your burdens, and offer commentary on your adventures. Building a strong relationship with them can unlock new dialogue options and even unique benefits.
Notable Unique Followers
Among the most sought-after unique followers are:
- J'zargo: A Khajiit mage from the College of Winterhold, J'zargo is a skilled Destruction mage and a loyal companion. He has a unique questline involving his ambition to become Arch-Mage.
- Farkas and Vilkas: Brothers from the Companions, these Nord warriors are formidable in combat and can accompany you after you join their ranks. They offer insights into the lore of the Companions and their werewolf heritage.
- Aela the Huntress: Another member of the Companions, Aela is a skilled archer and a werewolf. She is a loyal and fierce companion, particularly useful for ranged combat.
- Serana: A powerful ancient vampire encountered during the Dawnguard DLC, Serana is a complex character with a deep personal questline involving her family and the Volkihar clan. Her vampiric abilities make her a potent ally.
- M'aiq the Liar: While not a traditional follower, M'aiq the Liar is a recurring Khajiit character who offers cryptic and often humorous dialogue. He can sometimes be found in various locations across Skyrim.
Companion Quests and Loyalty
Many unique followers have personal quests that delve into their past or present motivations. Completing these quests often strengthens your bond with them, leading to increased loyalty and sometimes unlocking new dialogue or abilities. For example, completing Serana's personal quests can lead to her accepting her vampiric nature or even allowing you to become a vampire yourself. J'zargo's quest involves proving his worth to the College of Winterhold. These quests add sificant depth to the game world and provide compelling reasons to engage with your companions beyond their combat utility.
Building Relationships
The way you interact with your followers can influence their disposition towards you. While Skyrim doesn't have an explicit relationship meter, certain actions and dialogue choices can affect their loyalty. For instance, if you consistently make decisions that al with their moral compass or assist them in their personal endeavors, they are more likely to remain by your side. Conversely, actions that go against their beliefs might lead to them leaving. Some followers, like Serana, have specific dialogue options that open up as you progress through their quests, revealing more about their personalities and history.