Every RPG features companions who, despite initial red flags and irritating personalities, become indispensable members of the party. Often, these gruff or off-putting characters harbor hidden depths, with their abrasive exteriors stemming from complex backstories or deeply personal struggles. The following nine companions, ranked from most to least difficult, exemplify this archetype, offering players a journey of understanding and eventual loyalty.
Wrex from BioWare's <em>Mass Effect</em> series is a prime example. Initially appearing as a cynical and perpetually unhappy krogan mercenary, Wrex's grim demeanor is rooted in the fact that his entire race is facing extinction due to a plague. This internal struggle can lead him to confront Commander Shepard directly at one point, requiring careful negotiation or drastic action. However, with time and player intervention, Wrex transforms into one of Shepard's most steadfast allies by <em>Mass Effect 3</em>.
In the 2006 JRPG <em>Tales of the Abyss</em>, Jade Curtiss, a colonel from the Malkuth military, masks serious subjects with incessant sarcasm. While his constant snark can become tiresome, his sharp wit often proves correct, making him a valuable, albeit irritating, party member. His claim of being "always serious" belies a complex character.
Larian Studios' <em>Divinity: Original Sin 2</em> features the Red Prince, an exiled lizard crown prince who initially believes himself superior to the player and their companions. Despite his arrogance, his personality is well-written, and his personal quest to find love adds a surprising depth. As players progress, the Red Prince develops respect, though his royal bearing remains.
<em>Dragon Quest 5</em>, a 1992 JRPG, introduced Debora in its 2008 Nintendo DS remake. This chosen bride is snide and stuck-up, to the point where the game prompts the player three times to confirm their choice to marry her. Despite her off-putting behavior, including making the player sleep on the floor on their honeymoon, Debora becomes a strong party member and a devoted wife, showing affection through her own unique, if condescending, way.
Morrigan, a shapeshifting bog witch from BioWare's <em>Dragon Age: Origins</em>, is dry-tongued and openly unimpressed by cheerful characters and acts of kindness. She sneers at any attempt to help others, making romance a challenge for players who favor altruistic choices. However, by fulfilling her needs, such as acquiring a golden mirror, players can navigate her difficult personality.
Hiravias, a druid from Obsidian's <em>Pillars of Eternity</em>, presents a jarring first impression by being found eating a deer carcass. His foul-mouthed nature and ostracization by his clan due to his spirit-shifting abilities serve as a protective shell. Despite his rough edges, Hiravias provides much-needed comic relief with his witty rejoinders.
HK-47, the assassin droid from BioWare's 2003 Star Wars RPG <em>Knights of the Old Republic</em>, frequently refers to all living beings as "meatbags." His bluntness and aggressive suggestions, such as vaporizing negotiating partners, can be off-putting, but his dark humor makes him a worthwhile companion, especially for those undertaking a dark side playthrough.
Lae'zel, a githyanki warrior in Larian's <em>Baldur's Gate 3</em>, has judgmental takes on the player's actions, leading some to kill her at the start of each playthrough. Her constant disapproval can be grating, but beneath her hard exterior lies a fear of failing her society. Earning her trust, especially through romance, is a deeply satisfying experience as her character evolves.
Topping the list is Wenduag from Owlcat Games' <em>Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous</em>. This mongrel fighter, with her neutral evil alignment, respects only strength and antagonizes most of the party, dismissing love and loyalty as sham concepts. Unlike other companions on this list, Wenduag's loyalty can only be secured by asserting dominance, such as ordering her to kneel before her followers, making her the most challenging "jerk" companion to keep around.
