The Companion System launched January 22, 2026. Six companions were added to the game, each gated behind a specific procedural encounter location and a unique utility role.
The roster
Shipwright Tomo handles construction and crafting speed. Navigator Iris reads wind vectors 60 seconds in advance. Harpooner Jax engages sharks and auto-fires on debris. Scout Mira extends the UI Compass by 40%. Medic Pip handles passive HP regeneration. Engineer Rook reduces Engine fuel consumption by 15%.
The rescue prompt
Standardised across all interactions: "Are you hurt?" Successful completion converts the NPC into an active companion that operates autonomously on your raft.
The buff math
Medic Pip's regeneration aura is significant during boss fights. Engineer Rook's fuel reduction pays for itself within a few Cargo Ship pursuits. Scout Mira's Compass extension makes Radio Tower coordination substantially easier. The composition matters more than the count.