Catherine HuSummary: Explore the top 30 Skyrim companion mods in 2025, learn what makes them special, and see how to get them for free using Xmod.
Skyrim is legendary for its open-world freedom, but adventuring alone can feel empty. That’s where companion mods come in—mods that let you travel with fully voiced, customizable, and sometimes even romanceable allies. These mods add more than just extra firepower—they bring story, humor, and emotion to your journey.
In this guide, we’ll explain what companion mods are, rank the 30 best ones you can install in 2025, and show you how to get them completely free using Xmod, the all-in-one modding app for PC gamers.
Table of Contents
- What Are Skyrim Companion Mods?
- 30 Best Skyrim Companion Mods Ranked in 2025
- How to Get Free Mods for Skyrim by Using Xmod?
- Conclusion
What Are Skyrim Companion Mods?
Skyrim companion mods are user-created modifications that add or improve followers in the game, giving players new characters to travel, fight, and interact with. These mods often enhance AI behavior, add voice acting, or introduce entirely new storylines and personalities.
Check out our list of the 30 best Skyrim companion mods of 2025, carefully selected to elevate your adventures and make your Skyrim experience even more immersive and exciting.
30 Best Skyrim Companion Mods Ranked in 2025
Explore the 30 best Skyrim companion mods of 2025, each enhancing your adventure with unique allies and quests.
1.Xelzaz, The Telvanni Argonian
Xelzaz is a fully-voiced Argonian follower mod for Skyrim, offering players over 5,000 lines of rich dialogue and a unique questline. As a Telvanni-aligned companion, Xelzaz goes beyond standard follower behavior—he can cook meals, brew potions, and even read books aloud during travel. He features custom combat and theme music, adding a personal touch to gameplay. Xelzaz also interacts dynamically with other popular follower mods like Nebarra, Remiel, and Lucifer, creating immersive party banter. With his distinct personality and utility, Xelzaz is a compelling addition to any Dragonborn’s journey across Tamriel.
2.Aurlyn Dawnstone, The Reclusive Philosopher
Aurlyn Dawnstone is a powerful Altmer sorceress follower mod with a vast backstory and thousands of lines of fully-voiced dialogue. As a former member of the Aldmeri Dominion, Aurlyn brings philosophical insights and magical prowess to the Dragonborn’s side. She excels in long-range combat with potent spells, offering both firepower and reflective conversation. Her character evolves throughout the game, offering new insights and topics to explore. With her mystical presence and rich lore, Aurlyn stands out as one of the most intriguing and intelligent companions available in Skyrim mods.
3.Shirley, Skyrim’s Grandma
Based on beloved YouTuber Shirley Curry, this mod introduces “Skyrim Grandma” as a fully-voiced, recruitable follower. With dialogue lines personally recorded by Shirley, she brings warmth and wisdom to every adventure. Unlike traditional companions, Shirley offers a lighthearted and nurturing presence, making her perfect for players seeking a more relaxed and wholesome companion. Her cheerful banter and engaging personality make exploration feel like a cozy journey. This follower is a heartfelt tribute from the Skyrim community and a delightful choice for fans who want something truly unique.
4.Geralt Of Rivia, The Witcher
This crossover mod brings Geralt of Rivia, the famed Witcher, into the world of Skyrim as a fully-voiced companion. Though not lore-friendly, Geralt fits surprisingly well thanks to his custom dialogue and combat skills. Players can find him at the Winking Skeever in Solitude, ready to join the fight with his dual swords and powerful witcher Signs. He comments on his surroundings and reacts to different in-game events, making him feel integrated despite his origins. For fans of The Witcher series, this mod is a thrilling way to blend two fantasy worlds.
5.Pandorable’s Heroines
This mod adds eight beautifully designed female followers to Skyrim, each located across different parts of the map. Using UUNP body meshes, they support body physics mods and can be easily customized. Although the heroines use recycled voice lines from vanilla NPCs, their unique appearances and compatibility with popular follower frameworks make them excellent additions. They’re all marriable and intended to add vibrancy to the world. Whether you’re seeking variety or more immersive world-building, Pandorable’s Heroines offers a stylish and convenient way to diversify your travel companions.
6.Familiar Faces, Traveling With Oneself
The Familiar Faces mod takes a unique approach by allowing players to recruit their own characters from previous save files. These self-created followers retain their gear, skills, and personalities, effectively making the Dragonborn travel alongside past versions of themselves. This creates a strong narrative continuity and a personal connection rarely found in other mods. It’s a brilliant solution for players who become attached to their creations and want to continue their stories. Available for both Special and Legendary Editions, Familiar Faces is a highly personalized take on Skyrim‘s companion system.
7.Lucifer, The Cagey Argonian
Lucifer is a battle-hardened Argonian follower mod with over 6,000 lines of custom dialogue. He begins distant and guarded, but gradually opens up as players earn his trust. An expert archer and melee fighter, Lucifer offers useful combat support and an evolving backstory that unfolds through your adventures. He reacts to the Dragonborn’s choices, sometimes challenging them with his own strong opinions. For players who enjoy rich character development and immersive storytelling, Lucifer adds complexity and emotional depth to any journey through Skyrim.
8.Sofia, The Free Spirit
Sofia is one of the most beloved and comedic follower mods available for Skyrim. Known for her cheeky sense of humor and risqué commentary, Sofia livens up even the most mundane quests. With high-quality voice acting and countless lines of custom dialogue, she constantly reacts to events, locations, and the Dragonborn’s decisions. Her personality is bold, sassy, and refreshingly different from standard companions. Sofia’s presence brings levity to the game, making her a favorite for players looking to inject some humor into their adventures.
9.The Followers Of Interesting NP
The Interesting NPCs mod adds over 250 fully-voiced characters to Skyrim, including more than 25 recruitable followers. Each NPC features unique backstories, goals, and dialogue, greatly enriching the game’s narrative depth. These characters feel like genuine residents of Skyrim, and their varied personalities provide countless hours of fresh interactions. Whether you’re looking for romance, mentorship, or strong combat allies, this mod has someone to suit every play style. A staple for immersion seekers, Interesting NPCs transforms Skyrim into a far more dynamic and lifelike world.
10.Gore – A Companion Mod
Gore is a rugged, survivalist follower with hundreds of custom-voiced lines and a fully developed storyline. He can build evolving camps, hunt, cook, and adapt his actions based on the region. As his personal questline progresses, his campsite changes and deepens the bond between him and the Dragonborn. Gore also provides a rechargeable flask that heals 50% health, making him both a strategic and immersive companion. For fans of roleplaying and survival gameplay, Gore offers depth, function, and realism that enhance the Skyrim experience.
11.Redcap the Riekling
Redcap is a quirky yet powerful Riekling follower with over 2,500 custom lines, a fully voiced storyline, and 11 unique armor sets. He fights with spears and rides a bristleback mount, making him a standout companion in both function and style. Redcap is highly interactive, especially when paired with other modded followers like Inigo, Xelzaz, and Remiel, triggering dynamic three-way banter. Despite his humorous appearance, Redcap offers serious combat support and rich storytelling. He’s a top-tier choice for players who enjoy deep customization and lively team dynamics.
12.Melana the War Maiden
Melana is a follower designed to grow alongside the player through three character evolution phases. She begins as a timid novice, avoiding fights, but gradually becomes a skilled light-armored fighter and ultimately a powerful heavy-armored warrior. Her voice lines and behavior shift as she gains confidence and experience, creating a believable development arc. Melana’s growth makes her feel like a living, changing person rather than a static follower. With fully voiced dialogue and a strong narrative presence, Melana adds emotional depth and progression to long-term playthroughs.
13.Nebarra, The Altmer Mercenary
Nebarra is a fully-voiced High Elf mercenary with a sharp tongue and a soldier’s discipline. As a veteran of the Great War, he brings gritty realism and a no-nonsense attitude to the Dragonborn’s travels. Nebarra includes a personal quest off the coast of Solstheim, expanding his backstory and offering players additional content. He often interacts with NPCs and other modded followers, contributing to a lively and reactive world. For those seeking a serious, morally complex companion, Nebarra offers compelling dialogue and a distinct presence.
14.Khajiit Will Follow
This mod adds four distinct Khajiit followers to Skyrim, each with over 5,000 lines of custom dialogue and unique personalities. They come with tailored playstyles, new armor, weapons, and even a hidden quest that ties into their backstories. Fully voiced and lore-friendly, these feline companions are a rich addition for fans of the Khajiit race. The mod also supports cross-compatibility with other follower systems, ensuring smooth integration. For players craving more diversity and charm, Khajiit Will Follow delivers an engaging and immersive experience.
15.Vilja, The Wandering Bard
Vilja is a cheerful and talkative bard companion originally from Morrowind, known for her engaging presence and personal questline. With over 9,000 lines of fully voiced dialogue and 28 custom songs, she brings vibrant personality and musical flair to your adventures. Her interactions are rich and varied, covering everything from witty banter to dynamic combat strategies. Players can customize her behavior, enjoy her personal storyline, and travel alongside a character who truly feels alive. Vilja is ideal for those looking for a companion who is both entertaining and deeply integrated into the world of Skyrim.
16.Auri, The Wood Elf Archer
Auri is a fully-voiced Bosmer archer with a sharp tongue and sharper arrows. She offers a refreshing alternative to Skyrim’s often bland vanilla followers. Auri comes with her own unique personality, approval system, and a personal questline that adds meaningful depth to the game. Her interactions shift based on the player’s choices, and she seamlessly integrates with popular companion mods like Lucien and Inigo. Whether in combat or casual conversation, Auri stands out as a witty, well-developed follower who adds both charm and firepower to your adventuring party.
17.M’rissi, The Strange Khajiit
M’rissi is an enigmatic Khajiit companion with a deeply emotional questline spanning roughly eight hours. Fully voiced with over 2,000 lines of dialogue and multiple possible endings, she offers a uniquely immersive experience. M’rissi’s distinct design and abilities—such as teleportation, sabercat riding, and conditional immortality—unlock through progression in her quest. Her interactions dynamically respond to location and circumstance, making her feel remarkably real. With two voice options and a compelling backstory revealed through player choice, M’rissi is far more than a follower—she’s a richly written character with heart, mystery, and immersive storytelling.
18.Lucien, The Imperial Scholar
Lucien is a young, enthusiastic scholar who evolves alongside the Dragonborn through custom dialogue and gameplay. He begins as an inexperienced fighter but gradually learns from the player, gaining new skills and reactions based on your actions. With over 5,000 lines of voice-acted dialogue, Lucien features a branching character arc and meaningful growth. His interactions with other popular followers, like Inigo and Kaidan, further expand the immersion. Lucien is ideal for players who want a loyal companion that matures with them—both narratively and mechanically—throughout their Skyrim journey.
19.Remiel, The Breton Engineer
Remiel is a curious Breton tinkerer from Wayrest who joins the Dragonborn in search of ancient Dwemer secrets. Featuring around 2,500 lines of voiced dialogue, she’s a lore-friendly companion with a love for lost technology and a lighthearted, intelligent personality. While not a powerful fighter, she compensates by crafting an upgradable Dwemer spider companion and assisting with locks. Her unique perspective on ruins and relics adds depth to exploration, and her gentle wit makes her a delightful addition for players looking for something different in a follower.
20.Hoth, The Grizzled Bounty Hunter
Hoth is a rugged, no-nonsense mercenary who thrives in the chaos of battle. Armed with a two-handed weapon and thousands of lines of custom dialogue, he’s a veteran warrior who’s seen it all. His distinct appearance and custom textures make him visually memorable. Beyond combat, Hoth offers endless bounty hunting quests, turning him into more than just a follower—he’s a continuous gameplay mechanic. For players wanting a rough-edged companion who delivers brutal justice with a growl and a grin, Hoth is your man.
21.Arissa, The Wandering Rogue
Arissa is a roguish, street-smart companion with a rebellious streak and a past full of secrets. With over 600 voiced lines, she brings wit, charm, and grit to the Dragonborn’s adventures. Her custom loyalty system, called “Regard,” allows players to unlock new abilities and deepen their connection with her. Arissa’s dialogue feels organic and immersive, fitting naturally into Skyrim’s world. Perfect for players seeking a morally gray, clever companion, Arissa adds personality and a spark of unpredictability to every quest.
22.Kaidan, The Romantic
Kaidan is a brooding yet charismatic warrior companion with a compelling personal story and romance potential. Designed to evolve through interaction, Kaidan’s personality unfolds organically through player dialogue and choices. He’s a solid tank in combat, capable of holding the line while you cast or flank. Whether pursuing a friendship or romance, Kaidan offers deep emotional engagement and voice-acted responses that feel natural. His storyline is rich with personal growth, making him an ideal choice for players who enjoy character-driven narratives with heart.
23.Inigo, The Khajiit Sneak
Inigo is a fan-favorite Khajiit companion known for his humor, depth, and stealthy skills. With over 7,000 lines of custom dialogue, he comments on the world, reacts to the player’s actions, and maintains a dynamic relationship with the Dragonborn. Inigo’s thoughtful voice acting and clever writing make him feel like a living, breathing part of Skyrim. He whispers when sneaking, jokes when relaxed, and offers heartfelt advice in serious moments. Inigo is the gold standard for immersive, personality-rich follower mods—and a must-have for any adventurer.
24.Recorder
Recorder is a quirky, fourth-wall-breaking companion from another world, sent to document the Dragonborn’s journey. With over 700 voiced lines and an extensive questline, she’s both funny and emotionally engaging. Recorder comments on major in-game events, often with meta-awareness, providing fresh perspective and consistent commentary. Her story unfolds gradually, with romance options and even a unique summon spell. Fully compatible with major follower frameworks, Recorder is perfect for players who enjoy lighthearted, narrative-rich companions that blur the lines between game and reality.
25.Caesia, The Sharp-Tongued Enigma
Caesia is a sharp-witted, talkative follower with over 730 lines of original, fully voiced dialogue. Though outwardly confident and full of snarky charm, she keeps her true self hidden beneath layers of guarded personality. Your choices during conversations shape her opinion of you, creating a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable relationship. This evolving rapport offers both challenge and reward as you navigate her moods and earn her trust. Caesia is open to romance regardless of race or gender, and the deeper your connection grows, the more of her mysterious past is revealed. She’s unpredictable, entertaining, and never short on commentary.
26.Dovahbear, The Shouting Bear Companion
Dovahbear is a humorous and wild follower mod that lets you roam Skyrim with a powerful bear ally by your side. Equal parts adorable and deadly, Dovahbear brings a unique twist to adventuring, blending animal companionship with Dragonborn-style flair. This majestic creature isn’t just for show—ongoing development means added features, including the potential for your bear to use shouts in combat. Whether charging into battle or simply lumbering beside you through the tundra, Dovahbear offers a lighthearted yet fierce addition to your journey, perfect for players who want something fun, fierce, and unforgettable.
27.Eryniel, The Spriggan-Touched Elf
Eryniel is a mystical follower of the Epic Elf race, blending elegance and elemental power through the ancient teachings of the Spriggans. With mastery over 35 unique spells and a custom perk set, she excels as a support-focused companion who can flank enemies with deadly precision. Her combat style merges powerful nature-based magic with sharp archery, creating a versatile and formidable ally. Adorned with delicate floral tattoos across her face, Eryniel is as visually striking as she is effective. Ideal for players who value grace, power, and a deep connection to Skyrim’s natural magic.
28.Interesting NPCs
Interesting NPCs is a mod that introduces a vast array of characters to Skyrim, each with fully voiced dialogue by over 80 voice actors. Unlike most follower mods, it adds dozens of NPCs, enriching the world with unique personalities, banter, and complex interactions. These characters can entertain, challenge, or even frustrate the player. While the mod doesn’t feature a single standout follower, the sheer variety and depth it adds to Skyrim’s world make it an incredible enhancement, offering countless dialogue opportunities and compelling personalities to discover.
29.Garm the Husky
Garm the Husky offers a delightful companion for those who prefer dogs over human followers. This mod lets you adventure alongside a loyal and customizable husky, with various size options to fit your style. Unlike other games that let you pet dogs, Garm becomes your trusty sidekick, assisting in combat and exploration. Whether you’re battling mudcrabs or dragons, Garm’s presence adds warmth and charm to your Skyrim adventures, offering players a non-human companion that’s as brave and dependable as any warrior.
30.Cerwiden
Cerwiden is a highly intelligent and skilled healer who stands out among Skyrim followers. With a deep knowledge of magic, she can offer powerful buffs before combat and then strategically cast healing and support spells during battle to ensure your success. Her spellcasting is both effective and tactical, making her an invaluable asset in fights. In addition to her combat prowess, Cerwiden features a unique questline, allowing players to uncover more about her background and deepen their connection with her. She’s an ideal companion for those seeking both a strategic ally and an intriguing character to follow.
These 30 best Skyrim companion mods will make your Skyrim journey more immersive and unforgettable.
Next, I’ll show you how to get free mods for Skyrim using Xmod.
How to Get Free Mods for Skyrim by Using Xmod?
To enhance your Skyrim experience using Xmod, follow these simple steps:
- Download the Xmod app.
xmod download - Search for Skyrim in the app’s game library.
Skyrim - Launch Skyrim directly through Xmod.
- Activate your desired mods within Xmod for a personalized and improved gameplay experience.
The Elder Scrolls V Skyrim mods
With Xmod, you can access a variety of mods that bring new features, cheats, and customizations, making your Skyrim adventure even more exciting.
Conclusion
Skyrim’s best companion mods add meaningful characters who can fight, talk, and travel with you. They enhance both gameplay and storytelling by making your journey feel less lonely and more dynamic. With so many creative options, finding the right companion can completely change how you experience the world of Skyrim.
