Skyrim Followers: Commands, Carrying & Quest Boundaries
Use Skyrim followers deliberately, understand command restrictions and distinguish a scripted absence from a missing companion.
Skyrim Followers: Commands, Carrying & Quest Boundaries
Skyrim Followers: Commands, Carrying & Quest Boundaries
Choose help that suits the trip
Bethesda's manual describes tavern hirelings with different combat specialties who can fight and carry items. Think about whether that help complements your approach before committing to a difficult route. A follower is more useful when you understand the role you want them to perform.
Use a specific command
The manual supports commands including waiting, using objects, attacking and picking up items, with restrictions for some followers. On the original default PC controls, targeting the follower and holding E enters command mode. Check your bindings and platform before applying that input.
Check what the command would do
A follower may be unable to perform a requested action. Do not repeatedly issue a command without inspecting the actual obstacle. The manual also warns that follower crimes can be attributed to you, so an order is not a way to make a risky action consequence-free.
Recognize a scripted separation
Bethesda confirms followers do not accompany the player to Skuldafn and Sovngarde during The World Eater's Eyrie, and return afterward. That specific quest boundary should not be generalized into a promise that every absent follower will automatically return.
Keep track of your last instruction
Before leaving an area, remember whether the follower was accompanying you or had been told to wait. Check that situation before using an invasive console fix. This page does not claim every follower is immortal, can open every lock or has unlimited carrying capacity.