The Outer Worlds: Best Companions - Ranking Halcyon's Crew
Obsidian Entertainment has a well-earned reputation for crafting some of the most memorable and richly detailed worlds in role-playing history. A massive part of that success lies in its characters—the complex, witty, and often deeply human figures who populate those worlds. The Outer Worlds is a masterclass in this philosophy, presenting a cast of companions who are far more than just walking inventories or extra guns in a firefight. As anticipation for The Outer Worlds 2 continues to build, fans are looking back and celebrating the crew of the Unreliable who made the journey through Halcyon so unforgettable.
While every player has their personal favorite, a clear consensus has formed around the characters who truly stole the show. These are the companions celebrated for their exceptional writing, compelling personal quests, and the unique flavor they bring to every conversation and combat encounter. Here’s our breakdown of the most popular characters in The Outer Worlds.
Parvati Holcomb: The Heart of the Unreliable
It’s almost impossible to discuss The Outer Worlds’ characters without starting with Parvati Holcomb. The sweet, endlessly empathetic engineer from Edgewater is often the first companion players recruit, and she immediately sets a high bar. Raised in a corporate-run town and conditioned to be timid and subservient, Parvati’s journey is one of self-discovery and finding the courage to be herself.
What makes Parvati so universally beloved is her genuine kindness and vulnerability. She sees the best in people, even in a galaxy designed to grind them down. Her companion quest, "Don't Bite the Sun," is a standout in the entire game, moving away from combat to focus on helping her prepare for a first date. It’s a tender, beautifully written story about anxiety, friendship, and finding happiness that resonates with nearly everyone who plays it. In a world of cynicism and corporate greed, Parvati is a beacon of hope, making her the undeniable heart and soul of the crew.
Vicar Maximillian DeSoto: The Man of Faith and Conflict
Vicar Max is a fascinating study in contradictions. As a Vicar of the Order of Scientific Inquiry (OSI), he presents himself as a man of unshakable faith and intellectual rigor. However, the player quickly discovers a man tormented by a past he can’t reconcile with his beliefs. His quest to find forbidden truths is fueled by a volatile temper and a deep-seated crisis of faith.
Players love Vicar Max for his intellectual sparring and explosive, often hilarious, outbursts. His "mad scientist" energy, combined with a legitimately compelling philosophical struggle, makes him one of the most dynamic characters on the ship. His companion quest, "The Empty Man," takes players on a journey through his fractured psyche, leading to a profound and satisfying conclusion. He’s proof that a character doesn’t have to be conventionally “likeable” to be a fan favorite; complexity and brilliant writing go a long way.
S.A.M.: The Murder-Bot We All Need
Every spaceship crew needs a good robot, and S.A.M. is one of the best. Found deactivated in a storage closet aboard the Unreliable, this Sanitation and Maintenance automechanical is just waiting for an Acid Stepper part to be brought back to life. Once activated, his primary function is simple: clean surfaces and eradicate filth. Conveniently, he interprets hostiles as a particularly stubborn type of filth.
S.A.M. earns his spot on the popularity list through pure, unadulterated charm and utility. His deadpan delivery of corporate cleaning slogans while spraying acid on enemies is a constant source of humor. He doesn't have a deep, emotional questline like the other companions, but he doesn’t need one. His value comes from his unique combat role and the comedic relief he provides. Hearing a cheerful “Sanitation mode engaged!” right before a giant Mantisaur gets melted is a joy that never gets old.
Felix Millstone: The Rebel with a Cause (and a Kick)
Felix is the fiery, anti-corporate revolutionary of the group. You find him arguing with a foreman on the Groundbreaker, and his passion for sticking it to "the man" is immediately apparent. He’s impulsive, idealistic, and has a knack for getting into trouble, but his loyalty to the Captain and his friends is absolute.
While some players find his revolutionary zeal a bit much, many are drawn to his unwavering conviction and good-natured spirit. Felix represents the untamed heart of rebellion beating against Halcyon’s oppressive corporate culture. His "Friendship's Due" quest explores his past and his relationship with a former mentor, adding layers to his character beyond just being an anarchist. In combat, his dropkick ability is not only effective but also endlessly entertaining to watch. He is the chaotic, kick-happy little brother of the Unreliable crew.
Ellie Fenhill: The Pragmatic Mercenary
A pirate, surgeon, and unapologetic cynic, Ellie Fenhill is one of the most capable and self-assured members of the crew. She trusts no one and always looks out for number one, an attitude forged by a lifetime of navigating the treacherous underbelly of the galaxy. She initially joins the player for purely transactional reasons, but gradually warms up to the idea of being part of a team.
Ellie’s popularity comes from her sharp wit, no-nonsense attitude, and competence. She acts as a perfect foil to the more idealistic members of the crew like Parvati and Felix. Her companion quest, "The Low-Crusade," reveals a surprising amount about her background and motivations, delving into her strained relationship with her wealthy, controlling parents. It reframes her cynicism not as malice, but as a hard-earned survival mechanism, making her a much more sympathetic and respected character.