The companions are cool. I decided for this Survival run that I was going to do without them, in order to take LW. It's a choice, but it fits my style and of course the bonuses for LW are hard to ignore. I like playing the loner, so it's a good fit for me to go it alone.
And actually I did get Codsworth's bonus, but then took LW and have been rolling solo or with the dog ever since. But I know I am missing a lot of cool stuff, such as not having Nick with me in Far Harbor. The companion perks are not a big deal, but all added up together are significant.
Their dialog, quests and perks are great. But that is counterbalanced by poor combat AI, stealth issues and honestly I like not caring about whether they dislike what I am doing. The dog don't care
I don't know that I will play FO4 a second time (third time with my level 35 first run), probably not. But if I do maybe I'll give them a proper go.
Originally Posted by Crane Hunter
Ada is best left at a settlement ASAP, one where she can not be heard, she doesn't even grant you a perk so there's no sense in using her if you don't have to.
Modified that a bit
To achieve anything in this game you must be prepared to dabble in the boundary of disaster — Stirling Moss