How to Reset Your Companions in Skyrim
Resetting a follower or companion in Skyrim can sometimes become necessary, especially if they get stuck in an infinite loop or refuse to do their tasks. In this article, we’ll show you the various ways to reset your companions, from console commands to mods. By the end of this article, you’ll know how to revive your stuck follower, make them go home, or even completely reset them.
Loading a Previous Save
One simple way to reset your companions is to load a previous save. This method works especially well if the companion is stuck or refusing to follow orders. Simply load a save from earlier in the game, and the companion’s problem should resolve itself. Remember, though, that this method resets your entire game, so be cautious and only use it as a last resort.
Sleeping and Long Load Times
Another method of resetting your companions involves sleeping in your bed and letting the game automatically pause and reload the game files. To do this:
- Simply go to your bed and sleep as usual.
- Wait for the game’s timer to tick down to at least 24 hours.
- Your game should automatically reload, and your follower should reset to normal behavior.
Fast Travel and Unstucking Followers
Fast traveling, a popular method in Skyrim, can be used to unstuck followers:
- Find a location where fast travel is available (e.g. wayshrines, major cities).
- Fast travel to a distant location and then back to the original location.
For console players, use the following Console Command: "unlock"
Reset AI and Scripts
When a companion’s AI stops functioning, you can reset their scripting to revive them:
- Open your console using the
~key and type "resetAi [NPC Name]" replacing [NPC Name] with your NPC’s actual name.
Reset Skyrim NPCs
If your companion won’t reset through normal methods:
-
Open the "coc" console command and type
coc qasmoke. - Wait for the game’s script to reload.
Mod Help
If none of the above methods work, there are mods available that help manage companion behavior. Mods like ‘Requiem’ offer customizable companion AI, and ‘Undeath’ allows vampires to form romantic relationships.
Can’t Kill Your Companion, You Say?
Some users experience issues with their companions unable to die. Don’t panic!
- Load a new save (if available).
- Edit the "ck" entry for your companion using the Editor, and set the value to something different.
Marry the Unmarriable
Do you wish to marry your favorite companion, including Serana? While some companions can’t be married, user-made mods can allow you to bond with them.
- Install an extension like ‘Requiem’, which offers custom romance options.
- Edit your companion’s data using tools like TESVEdit, replacing the "Marriage Script" with a new one.
Avoid Sticky Situations
To reduce the risk of companion problems:
- Don’t marry or take children with your followers.
- Steer clear of quests that involve saving other characters (which could become stuck).
Take Control
With these various methods and mods, you should be equipped to manage your companions’ behavior effectively. Remember to keep your game settings optimized, and if you need assistance, don’t hesitate to ask our community for help.