The best companions in video games (Part 1)

This is a topic that offers almost endless possibilities. While we may tend to overlook the importance of secondary characters, they often play a crucial role in the overall experience. They can make the adventure much more enjoyable, or sometimes even more complex, and that’s where the charm of their existence lies. Whether they’re imaginary creatures, human partners or simple pets, let’s take a look at our selection of the best companions in video games.

Esquie from Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is delighted that we are talking about him. His surprising and endearing character, his usefulness, and the narrative depth he brings make him one of the most iconic gaming companions of recent years. Encountered relatively early on in the game, this character sets the pace for our adventure in the best possible way, while enhancing it with many lighter moments. He alone allows the player to experience a range of emotions and maintain a sense of wonder throughout the game.

When discussing this topic, it is tempting to mention Hazelight Studios’ productions: Split Fiction, It Takes Two and A Way Out. Each one is as excellent as the next, offering thrilling adventures with a controlled pace and demonstrating the importance of having a partner who is indispensable for solving problems. However, they are somewhat unique in that it is the second player who directly embodies these characters.

The last two instalments of the God of War saga offer us two exceptional companions. While Atreus immediately springs to mind, whose evolution we follow from a simple companion to watch over to an indispensable ally, it is Mimir who is most noteworthy. This is an original concept: that of being only a head, not a whole body. He is a unique symbol in narrative and mythological terms, literally embodying the living memory of the ancient Norse. He also completes an interesting triangle of human condition between Kratos, embodying strength, Atreus, embodying emotion, and Mimir, embodying wisdom. Attached to our belt, he will follow us throughout the adventure and will energise it with his valuable, light-hearted, but also profound commentary when necessary.

Iconic female partners are not left out of our selection. Elizabeth, from BioShock Infinite, is a fascinating ally capable of manipulating dimensions, whose relationship with Booker DeWitt, the main protagonist, gives the game its emotional depth. In The Last of Us, it is obviously Ellie who we highlight. A travelling companion and then a protagonist in her own right, she and Joel symbolise the emotional complexity of a father-daughter bond in a post-apocalyptic world. Finally, how can we not mention Ciri from The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Although she is not always physically at the centre of the action, she represents the narrative heart of the game. When she is playable, her unique gameplay shapes a whole new way of playing. The dialogues between her and Geralt, the main character, are full of humour, but also tenderness and unspoken words.

Finally, let’s take a look at the creatures that perfectly fulfil their role as playmates. The Chocobos in Final Fantasy are an essential part of the experience: they serve as mounts, help with farming, and even play a role in the gameplay itself. Agro, the faithful steed from Shadow of the Colossus, accompanies the hero on his quest throughout the game and protects him when needed. Of course, we cannot forget Pikachu, the young trainer’s lifelong partner. Particularly prominent in the game Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! on Switch, Pikachu has been a unique mascot known around the world for more than 20 years. Throughout all these years, this duo has embodied a deep bond of friendship and loyalty.

Through this selection of the best companions in video games, we have seen that they can take many forms and fulfil many different functions to enrich and solidify the player’s experience. Whether providing physical or emotional support, or adding narrative depth, their presence is a real asset to the franchises with which they are associated. Do you have a gaming companion that has made a particular impression on you?