The Elder Scrolls Online’s Companions System detailed

The Elder Scrolls Online players will be able to recruit an ally to fight alongside them and join them on their journey as part of the Blackwood Chapter.

At launch, players will be able to choose between Mirri Elendis and Bastian Hallix after completing the required quests. Once recruited, players can equip their companion with gear, choose their abilities, and give them orders in combat.

“The goal of the Companions system is to provide you with unique adventuring allies to explore the world with who will grow under your care and provide customizable combat support,” Philip Draven, ESO’s Lead Systems Designer, explained in a blog post. “By developing your Companion to be the perfect complement to your own playstyle, they’ll be able to help you tackle challenges that may have been just out of reach before and provide assistance when another player is not available to join you.”

Players can also customize their companion’s look by equipping them with any unlocked costumes or outfits and choose which mount they ride. Finally, the player and their companion will build a rapport between each other as they journey together, with the level going up or down depending on the activities players engage in. Increasing the level of rapport will unlock new dialog options, companion quests, and the option to add the companion to your home.

“Rapport is meant to give the player a clear understanding of where they stand with each Companion at any given time, so they can see how their actions affect their bond,” Draven added. “Each Companion’s personality and preferences are distinct, so whereas Bastian may be actively disappointed with you stealing, Mirri may be indifferent or even amused.”

The Elder Scrolls Online: Blackwood launches June 1st on PC and Stadia, with a console release set to follow on June 8th.