Carver
A brash and headstrong young man, Carver bristles at the idea of being recognized as Hawke’s younger brother rather than being appreciated for his own merits. His best role in the party is as a warrior focused on inflicting heavy damage with two-handed weapons.
- Unlike most other companions, Hawke’s relationship with Carver has a preexisting slant towards rivalry from the very start of the game.
- If you want to secure a friendship with Carver, consult him whenever a suitable dialogue option arises, and just generally attempt to make him feel more than a mere passenger on Hawke’s journey.
- The city of Kirkwall is in part defined by the tensions that exist between the powerful Order of the Templars and the mages they are charged to keep in line. As a rule, Carver tends to side with the established authorities on this issue.
Bethany
Hawke’s sister Bethany is a mage. Sensitive and thoughtful, she is a more approachable soul than the brash Carver – and, therefore, easier to develop a friendship with.
- Bethany will approve if you speak out against or oppose the subjugation of mages. After a lifetime of concealing her natural gifts, she has a keen awareness of their plight.
- Though it’s not as apparent as with Carver, Bethany fears that she lives in Hawke’s shadow, and will therefore respond favorably if her opinion is sought.
- She will not tolerate ruthless behavior. Callous actions or words in your dealings with the people you meet will swing your relationship with her towards rivalry.
Dog
For those who have access to him (visit dragonage. bioware.com for details), this faithful mabari hound can be summoned to act as an ancillary party member.
- If Dog is not present, you can summon him by visiting the Sustained Spells/Talents section of the Radial Menu (or the Abilities menu on PC). He cannot “die” per se, though he will vanish if subjected to extreme punishment by strong enemies.
- Dog acts as a form of “mini-tank”, drawing enemy attention away from Hawke and more vital allies. Given that many battles pit you against several foes at once, this service will often come in handy.
- Unlike your companions, the mabari cannot be restrained from leaping into battle with the Move to Point or Hold Position commands whenever precision strategy or discretion are required. In these instances you will find that it makes sense to dismiss him.
Aveline
For all but players who chose to make her role their own, Aveline will become a staple companion in her specialist capacity as the party’s tank.
- As a general rule, try to stay on the right side of the law if you want to keep her friendly, and favor an honest approach in your dealings with others.
- It’s easy to assume that Aveline has a very rigid stance on law and order, but that’s not the whole picture. She understands that sometimes the letter of the law is less important than its spirit: some people really are better dead than jailed. Needless killing or unwarranted viciousness, however, will offend her immensely.
- Don’t shake down or pester people for additional payment. No matter how unthreatening your tone may be, this is something she consistently disapproves of (especially blatant blackmail or intimidation). A little humility will also help you to maintain a cordial relationship: she doesn’t like posturing.