Whose Side Are You On?

In the unpredictable universe of video games, every quest is colored by your sidekicks. Remember that time your trusty pal saved you at the last second? Or when your so-called teammate got stuck in a wall and left you hanging? Well, not all video game companions are created equal—so let's take a deep dive into the best and the worst of them!

KRATOS TELLS ATREUS TO OPEN HIS HEART DURING WAR OF ASGARD GOD OF WAR RAGNAROK by Skill Games

1. Garrus Vakarian (Mass Effect Series)

Garrus Vakarian has been at Shepard’s side since 2007, evolving from a rogue C-Sec officer to a top-tier companion. His impeccable aim and loyalty make him a must-have squadmate. He reminds players that “You were always one step away from a bullet to the head,” proving he’s got your back.

Episode 2: VAKARIAN (Mass Effect 1 - Cinematic TV Series) by SpaceBengal

2. Dogmeat (Fallout Series)

Since the original Fallout in 1997, Dogmeat has been a fiercely loyal companion, alerting you to danger, fetching supplies, and even attacking enemies. His AI makes him one of the most useful non-human allies. Plus, he never complains about radiation.

Fallout TV Series but just Dogmeat by Kakuchopurei

3. Kim Kitsuragi (Disco Elysium)

This no-nonsense lieutenant is the rock to your hurricane in Disco Elysium. Kim always ensures you stay on track as you spiral through existential crises. He is a partner whose support makes him one of gaming’s most reliable companions. Need a rational perspective? Kim’s got you covered.

A Selfless Man in a Selfish World - The Importance of Kim Kitsuragi in Disco Elysium by OwlBatross91

4. Varric Tethras (Dragon Age Series)

A rogue with a heart of gold, Varric wields his crossbow Bianca with deadly precision. More than that, he’s a storyteller, friend, and strategic ally. Also, in moments of political intrigue or when facing the blaze of a dragon, Varric’s wisdom and humor crown him as the ultimate travel companion.

Dragon Age 2 - Varric's Introduction by jj0ck33

5. BT-7274 (Titanfall 2)

Few machines forge such an emotional bond with their pilot. That's why BT is a loyal protector, strategist, and surprisingly funny partner. Protocol 3: Protect the Pilot defines his very core, which makes him one of gaming's most trustworthy mechanical allies.

Titanfall 2: Official Single Player Gameplay Trailer - Jack and BT-7274 by Titanfall Official

6. Ellie (The Last Of Us Series)

Ellie proves time and again that survival in The Last of Us is brutal, but she's never just baggage. As she crafts Molotovs and executes brutal takedowns, she becomes indispensable. Plus, her evolution from a sharp-tongued sidekick to a hardened survivor cements her as a top-tier companion.

Ellie | The Last of Us by Slyfer2812

7. Tails (Sonic The Hedgehog Series)

Tails does more than just fly. Since Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (1992), he’s been a dependable partner in high-speed chases and aerial rescues. Hence, Tails’ is an asset. Need backup? Tails is always ready to swoop in—literally.

Tails' Best Moments - The Sonic Series by PenguinTM

8. Clank (Ratchet & Clank Series)

Brains and brawn? Clank has both. This pint-sized robot isn’t just Ratchet’s sidekick—he’s a navigator, problem solver, and occasional time traveler. He unlocks secrets and transforms into a helicopter, proving that big things come in small, metallic packages.

Ratchet & Clank - The Game, Based on the Movie, Based on the Game Trailer | PS4 by PlayStation

9. Atreus (God Of War Series)

Just a boy? Not so fast. In 2018’s God of War, Atreus is a tactical ally. Armed with a bow and sharp intellect, he deciphers ancient texts and humanizes his father’s brutal journey. Few sidekicks grow this much in one game.

Evgeniy Kondratiev on Unsplash

10. Elizabeth (BioShock Infinite)

Locked doors and ammo shortages are no match for Elizabeth. In BioShock Infinite, she’s more than just a damsel—her ability to manipulate time and space makes her invaluable. Plus, she never needs protection, hence proving herself capable in every high-stakes moment.

BioShock Infinite - Part 2: Elizabeth by Prospekt Mir

Now, let’s look at ten companions who are as useful as a broken controller. 

1. Ashley Graham (Resident Evil 4)

Ashley Graham from Resident Evil 4 is infamous for being a liability. Constantly captured and in danger, she fails to assist in combat, which leaves players scrambling. Despite being a key character, she’s the epitome of an unreliable companion.

RESIDENT EVIL 4 REMAKE Walkthrough Gameplay Part 5 - ASHLEY GRAHAM (PS5) by CecliusPlays HD

2. R2-D2 (Star Wars: The Force Unleashed)

R2-D2, typically a hero in the Star Wars saga, takes a backseat in The Force Unleashed. His abilities in this game are mainly relegated to offering minor assistance, which hardly adds to the gameplay. While iconic, his role here is minimal and rarely provides the direct help you might expect.

Every Time R2-D2 Saves the Day by IGN

3. Fawkes (Fallout 3)

While Fawkes is a beast in terms of firepower, his tendency to rush headfirst into combat without strategy makes him more of a liability than an asset. In Fallout 3, you often find yourself cleaning up his mess rather than using him as an efficient partner.

How To Get Fawkes Companion In Fallout 3 by Trapped In Fallout

4. Maggie (Borderlands 3)

This companion on the list doesn’t exactly shine when it comes to AI or combat effectiveness. Though quirky and fun, Maggie’s unpredictable behavior and inability to aid the player during crucial moments often turn her into more of a burden than a supporting character.

THE MAGGIE | Legendary Weapon Review [Borderlands 3] by Ki11er Six

5. D-Horse (Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain)

D-Horse is supposed to be a fast, reliable mode of transportation in Metal Gear Solid V. Unfortunately, players find the horse difficult to control, leading to frustration. The steed’s erratic movements detract from its usefulness, making it a challenging companion to deal with.

Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain - Poop Trap @ 1080p HD ✔ by RajmanGaming HD

6. Vivi (Final Fantasy IX)

While Vivi is an emotional and central character in Final Fantasy IX, his combat effectiveness leaves much to be desired. As a mage, his low health and slower abilities can hinder progress during fights. That’s why he is less reliable than other, more balanced characters in the game.

Yukinobu Kurata on Wikimedia

7. Claptrap (Borderlands Series)

Claptrap may be the comic relief of the Borderlands series, but as a companion, he often causes more problems than solutions. His clumsy AI and frequent inability to contribute during intense battles make him a frustrating character to have around despite his humor and charm.

Borderlands 3 - Claptrap Presents: Pandora by GameSpot

8. Moira Brown (Fallout 3)

Moira Brown in Fallout 3 is not known for being particularly useful. While she offers healing assistance, her awkward decision-making often gets her into trouble. Players will find themselves rescuing her more than they’d like, which detracts from her value as a companion.

Meet Moira Brown by dragxnflare

9. Kreia (Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic II)

Kreia in KOTOR II is anything but dependable. Known for her cryptic advice and manipulative tactics, she’s a character whose motives remain questionable throughout the game. Moreover, her unpredictable nature as a mentor leaves players wondering who to trust.

Meeting Kreia - Star Wars KOTOR 2 by PMD Gang

10. Luna (Final Fantasy XV)

This one is the dog you bring to a battle and then quickly realize you’d be better off solo. While she looks cute and offers some heartfelt moments, when it comes to combat or actually helping, she’s more of a cheerleader than a fighter. No potions, no attacks—just pure fluff.

LUNAFREYA FAREWELL TO NOCTIS Emotional Cutscene - FINAL FANTASY XV Cinematic by Elrinell Gaming