I typically prefer games without companions, but I do like the idea of using them for a higher purpose than just an added gun. For example, the companions in Planescape (Morte in particular) weren't only there for fighting, but also to introduce and familiarize the player with the "chant."
I remember reading some Cyberpunk 2020 slang that was linked to in another thread, and there was a substantial amount on that list; I can't really think of a better way to introduce a new player to that kind of stuff than to have a companion who uses it.
That being said, I'd rather have no companions than a companion who I care nothing about. If they're replaceable and so devoid of personality that I wouldn't feel the need to reload should they die, then I'd argue that they're not worth whatever time would be required to implement them.
I remember reading some Cyberpunk 2020 slang that was linked to in another thread, and there was a substantial amount on that list; I can't really think of a better way to introduce a new player to that kind of stuff than to have a companion who uses it.
That being said, I'd rather have no companions than a companion who I care nothing about. If they're replaceable and so devoid of personality that I wouldn't feel the need to reload should they die, then I'd argue that they're not worth whatever time would be required to implement them.


