Best Games With A Non-Human Companion

Video games can be incredibly exhausting. You’ll play one for hours, get attached to the characters, and encounter plenty of twists and turns in the storyline along the way. Sometimes it can be too much to deal with alone, and that’s why it’s such a treat when you’ve got a companion by your side throughout the gameplay.

We're not talking about multiplayer gaming companions though, we're talking about those in-game friends that help us through thick and thin. There’s nothing like completing a mission and returning to see your companion waiting dutifully for you or even having them support you in your gruelling feats. If there’s a companion by your side, you won’t feel alone, and it might even give you some incentive to fight that little bit harder.

So, who are the best non-human companions we’ve encountered in the world of digital gaming?

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order - BD-1

There had to be a place for this trusted droid on our best companions list. BD-1 accompanies you on your journey as Cal Kestis in Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order. BD-1 was built as an exploration droid and stays by your side throughout the game as a friend, scout, and tool provider, showcasing loyalty and resourcefulness in the face of danger. From the moment you meet BD-1, you are inseparable, making the droid one of the most loyal and consistent characters on our list.

Monster Hunter World – Palicoes

Palicoes are a cat-like fighting companion in Monster Hunter World. They specialise in a variety of defensive, offensive, and restorative support skills to be a reliable comrade to their hunter out in the field. The Palico joins you on your quests and is fully customisable during character creation so you can even make your Palico look like your own cat. The design you choose at the beginning of the game won’t be changed and you stay with the same Palico, so make sure you’re happy before you begin your adventure.

Pokémon - Pikachu

Pikachu might be the most iconic Pokémon in the world. It’d be hard finding someone who doesn’t instantly recognise this little guy. Placing Pikachu in a Pokéball makes them very unhappy, so they make the best companion as they follow you around the map, especially in titles like Pokémon Yellow. This iconic ‘mon is one of the best companions you can encounter in the Pokémon world, his legacy alone will make you feel empowered.

Far Cry 5 - Cheeseburger

Cheeseburger is one of those characters that you’re instantly drawn to due to their emotional back story. Cheeseburger was found as a young cub after his mother was shot by poachers. Thankfully, he was rescued by an animal sanctuary, however, he developed Type 2 diabetes after an exclusive diet of burgers and fries. Later in the game, you can recruit him to your case. He’s a strong companion and will draw aggression and fire from enemies. Cheeseburger also isn’t afraid to bear arms and will exercise his right to attack, so long as he’s rewarded with a juicy burger after the mission.

Blair Witch – Bullet

For some of us, horror games are a huge no-go, but what if we told you, you could play with a German Shepherd companion, Bullet, who sticks by you through the survival horror game Blair Witch. Bullet is a trustful friend who will bark when enemies are near and will search for key items around the map. You can also treat Bullet with treats and belly rubs, making the horror game a little more tolerable.

Halo – Cortana

When there’s a silent video game protagonist (Master Chief), it only makes sense that you give him a chatty AI companion. Cortana serves as your trusty video game ally and intelligent guide to the universe, which makes it a lot less lonely when you’re spending most of your time on solo missions. Whether you need a decoded transmission or a hacked computer terminal, nobody does it better than Cortana.

A decent hero is nothing without a trusted sidekick, if you think we’ve missed a good one off this list, let us know on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook!