Baldur's Gate 3 features numerous memorable characters whose narratives end abruptly without offering players a chance to continue their journey alongside them. While the game provides six official companions, many fans argue that several non-playable characters (NPCs) deserve an upgrade to companion status due to their depth and intrigue. A notable exception is Mizora, Wyll's patron devil, who can now join the party thanks to a mod created by WorldWalker42 titled "Mizora Joins the Party." Although she technically appears in camp under her own terms, this modification allows players to recruit her hellish talents for their aims.
The list of desired companions begins with Alfira, a tiefling bard encountered in the Emerald Grove during Act 1. She writes an impromptu song about the player's story, creating a memorable moment that many feel warrants a full relationship. As the game lacks a bard companion, Alfira is seen as the ideal candidate to fill this gap, though players are warned against attempting a Dark Urge run if they wish to spend more time with her.
Barcus Wroot, a gnome rescued from a burning windmill in Act 1, endures a harrowing journey involving capture, torture, and eventual leadership of the Ironhand clan in Act 3. His arc rivals that of an official companion, yet he remains without a class to build skills around. Similarly, Zevlor, the tiefling paladin who leads refugees from the Emerald Grove, vanishes from the narrative after guiding his people to Baldur's Gate. Fans question why Minthara can be recruited on evil runs while Zevlor, the good-aligned alternative, cannot.
Volo, the explorer known for getting his head stuck in an owlbear nest and later serving as a camp trader and surgeon, offers charming commentary despite being tactically useless in combat. His ability to talk his way into dangerous situations makes him a natural pick for players seeking goofy banter. Araj, a blood merchant at Moonrise Towers tied to the fallen House Oblodra, presents a mystery regarding True Soul blood that could fuel an unwritten redemption arc.
Sazza, a goblin scout saved multiple times across three acts, has become a fan favorite specifically because players feel a personal connection after rescuing her repeatedly without being able to keep her. Kagha, the second-in-command at the Emerald Grove who secretly works with Shadow Druids, offers a visceral redemption story that some argue surpasses Halsin's centuries-old conflict. Her betrayal and potential atonement happen in real time before she is allowed to walk away.
Popper, a kobold performer at the Circus of the Last Days devoted to his housecat "His Majesty," brings a unique personality focused on treats rather than combat prowess. He Who Was, an undead figure found in the Shadow-Cursed Lands tormenting a woman from centuries past, offers a grim and memorable scene that vanishes quickly. His inclusion would provide an unhinged option for evil-aligned runs where companion choices are otherwise limited.
Finally, Arabella, a tiefling child rescued from Auntie Ethel's basement, manifests strange magical powers in Act 2 before abruptly leaving the story in Act 3 without closure. Her unresolved potential and mysterious departure leave many players wondering about her fate. While Baldur's Gate 3 did not run out of good characters when it filled its companion slots, these ten NPCs represent significant opportunities for expanded storytelling that remain unrealized outside of specific mods.
Sources: Polygon.