Dragons Dogma 2: Pawns Dragons Dogma 2 guide, tips
In DD2 the well-known system of pawns - loyal companions of the Arisen - returns. On this page we will introduce you to how this system works.
Last update: 28 March 2024
Pawns are the companions of the controlled hero in Dragons Dogma 2. Their purpose is to support you in combat, and sometimes also help during exploration. As the gameplay and characters develop, Pawns will become invaluable members of your team. On this page, we provide an introduction to the topic of Pawns, show what roles in the team they can play, and finally what types of interactions may ensue between the player and his ally.
Who are Pawns?
Pawns are steadfast companions of the Arisen, helping him in combat and sometimes in other matters. They assume the role of NPCs traveling with the hero, with the party members forming something like a close-knit team. Pawns are independent to a degree, but they can also be controlled and directed via commands issued by the player.
In DD2, the Pawn mechanic has been expanded compared to the first installment of the series. In the new entry, party members may point the player's attention to points of interest on the map or remind of events. During battles, they will also provide tips, for example, show weak areas of specific enemies. Pawns may learn skills and specializations, e.g. the ability to translate Elvish.
How to get Pawns?
Your first Pawn will be your most important companion when playing Dragons Dogma 2. You will create this character in the character creation screen and he will accompany you from that point on.
To learn more about what Vocations the Pawn can assume, read All Vocations (classes) page of our guide.
Aside from the main Pawn, during combat sequences, you can summon 2 additional Pawns that are chosen from the pool of player-created Pawns. The network functions of DD2 allow players to exchange Pawns. You will do this from the so-called Riftstones, which are found in most human settlements. Interacting with the stone will give you access to a special space where you will be able to hire, return, and also check the available Pawns in the game.
If during the game, you'll cross paths with Pawns whose help was indispensable and who complemented your team well, you'll be able to add these companions to your list of favourite Pawns.
Best Vocation for Pawn
A good idea when creating a Pawn will be to make him of a Vocation that supports your character class and playstyle. If, for example, you are playing as an Archer, consider creating a Pawn-Fighter that will stand on the frontline while you take out targets from a distance. If your class excels at melee combat, your ally can take the form of a Mage that will help you stay alive, casting healing spells or debuffs on your enemies.
The key to success here is creating a balanced team so you can respond to various dangers, so when choosing Pawns made by other players, pay attention to whether you can match them to play in your team. Creating a well-versed NPC team specializing in different aspects of combat will help you prevail even when faced with multi-faceted threat.
Best specialization for Pawn
In DD2, Pawns can have specific specializations. Here are all of them:
- Logistician - Pawn willingly combines materials owned by the party and skillfully manages the equipment by transferring it between party members;
- Hawker - operates on principles similar to a wandering merchant and allows you to sell certain items to them;
- Forager - marks and finds useful items on the map to improve your equipment;
- Chirurgeon - Pawn eagerly uses healing items and ensures the good condition of the Arisen and the rest of the party;
- Woodland Wordsmith - Pawn understands and translates Elvish speech for the Arisen;
- Aphonite - Pawn is not very eager to speak and is mostly silent.
All specializations available in the game (except for the rather useless Aphonite) offer tangible benefits and will certainly come in handy during your journeys. The most important thing is to choose a Pawn with the appropriate specialization for the specific mission. If, for example, you assume that during your next trip you may meet elves, then a translator with the Woodland Wordsmith skill will prove to be invaluable help.