Paladin Danse stands out as one of the most compelling and complex companions in Fallout 4. This guide dives deep into everything you need to know about him, from how to find him to maximizing your relationship and understanding his intricate backstory. Whether you're a seasoned Fallout player or new to the Commonwealth, understanding Paladin Danse is crucial for a richer game experience. So, let's get started, guys!

Who is Paladin Danse?

At first glance, Paladin Danse is the quintessential Brotherhood of Steel soldier: disciplined, honorable, and utterly devoted to the Brotherhood's mission. You first encounter him at the Cambridge Police Station, fighting off a horde of feral ghouls with his team. He's a staunch believer in the Brotherhood's ideals, which revolve around preserving technology and eliminating threats to humanity. His dedication and unwavering resolve make him a powerful ally in the dangerous world of Fallout 4. He embodies the core values of the Brotherhood, always ready to dispense justice and maintain order in the chaotic Commonwealth. His imposing Power Armor and confident demeanor immediately command respect, making him a natural leader and a steadfast companion. But beneath the surface lies a secret that, when revealed, challenges everything you think you know about him and the Brotherhood itself. This complexity is what makes Danse such a fascinating and memorable character, sparking debates and compelling players to consider the moral ambiguities within the game's narrative. His story is a powerful exploration of identity, loyalty, and the difficult choices one must make in a world struggling to rebuild after nuclear devastation. He is a character that sticks with you long after you've completed the game, prompting reflection on the themes of prejudice, acceptance, and the true meaning of humanity.

Finding Paladin Danse

Finding Paladin Danse is one of the easiest companion quests to start in Fallout 4. Your journey with Danse begins fairly early in the game, during the quest "Fire Support." After assisting the settlers in Concord, you'll likely pick up a radio distress signal from Cambridge Police Station. Tune your Pip-Boy to the Military Frequency AF95, and you'll hear Danse and his squad under attack by ghouls. Head to the Cambridge Police Station, located northeast of Cambridge. Upon arriving, you'll find Danse and his team pinned down by a large group of feral ghouls. Help them clear out the ghouls to initiate a conversation with Danse. After the battle, speak with Danse, who will express his gratitude for your assistance. He'll then ask you to join him on a mission to investigate a nearby location called ArcJet Systems. Agreeing to help him with this mission is the first step to recruiting him as a companion. This quest is straightforward but crucial, as it not only introduces you to Danse but also to the Brotherhood of Steel. Completing "Fire Support" and agreeing to assist Danse with the ArcJet Systems mission opens up a significant storyline and provides you with an early opportunity to align yourself with one of the major factions in the game. Remember to gear up and prepare for a tough fight, as ArcJet Systems is filled with synths and other dangerous enemies. Working with Danse through this mission will give you a taste of his combat prowess and strategic thinking, solidifying his value as an ally in the harsh Commonwealth.

Gaining Paladin Danse's Approval

Gaining Paladin Danse's approval is all about upholding the values of the Brotherhood of Steel – honor, duty, and a strong stance against ghouls, synths, and other threats to humanity. To impress Danse, focus on actions that align with his sense of justice and order. He appreciates it when you are generous, helpful, and demonstrate a strong moral compass. He particularly likes it when you show kindness to non-feral ghouls and act decisively against threats to innocent people. Danse admires directness and honesty in your interactions. He dislikes it when you act selfishly, steal, or use chems. He also disapproves of siding with factions that oppose the Brotherhood of Steel, such as the Railroad or the Institute. When making decisions in dialogues, choose options that reflect a strong sense of duty and a commitment to helping others. Completing quests for the Brotherhood of Steel and supporting their cause will significantly increase your standing with Danse. Siding with the Brotherhood in key decisions, such as destroying the Railroad or the Institute, will also earn you major approval points. Remember, consistent actions that reflect the Brotherhood's ideals are key to winning his loyalty. Be mindful of your choices and prioritize the well-being of others, and you'll find Danse to be a steadfast and supportive companion throughout your journey in the Commonwealth. By understanding his values and acting accordingly, you can forge a strong bond with this honorable Paladin and unlock his full potential as an ally.

Paladin Danse's Perks

Paladin Danse offers a unique companion perk called "Know Your Enemy." This perk grants you a permanent 20% damage bonus against feral ghouls, synths, and super mutants. This is an incredibly useful perk, especially considering how common these enemies are throughout the Commonwealth. To unlock this perk, you must reach maximum affinity with Danse. This involves gaining his approval through your actions and dialogue choices. Once you reach maximum affinity, Danse will confide in you and grant you the "Know Your Enemy" perk. This perk can significantly enhance your combat effectiveness, making you a more formidable opponent against some of the most dangerous threats in the game. The increased damage output can be particularly helpful in challenging areas and during boss battles. Moreover, the "Know Your Enemy" perk synergizes well with various builds, making it a valuable addition to any player's arsenal. Whether you prefer melee combat, ranged attacks, or a combination of both, this perk will provide a noticeable boost to your damage output against key enemy types. In addition to the combat benefits, the "Know Your Enemy" perk also serves as a testament to the strong bond you've formed with Danse. It's a tangible reward for your efforts to understand and support him, solidifying your relationship and making him an even more valuable companion.

The Dark Secret

One of the most significant aspects of Paladin Danse's character is the shocking revelation about his true identity. During the Brotherhood of Steel quest line, specifically the quest "Blind Betrayal," you discover that Danse is actually a synth. This revelation is a major turning point in the game and forces you to confront difficult moral questions about identity, prejudice, and loyalty. The quest begins when Elder Maxson orders you to execute Danse upon learning of his synth status. This puts you in a position to choose between your loyalty to the Brotherhood and your friendship with Danse. The decision is not easy, as both options have significant consequences. If you choose to execute Danse, you will maintain your standing with the Brotherhood but lose a valuable companion and betray a friend. If you choose to spare Danse, you will become an enemy of the Brotherhood and risk their wrath. This quest is a powerful exploration of the themes of prejudice and discrimination. Danse's synth status challenges the Brotherhood's rigid beliefs about what it means to be human. It forces you to question whether someone's identity is determined by their origins or their actions. The way you handle this situation will have a lasting impact on your character and the world around you. Regardless of your decision, "Blind Betrayal" is a pivotal moment in Fallout 4 that showcases the game's ability to create complex and emotionally resonant storylines. The quest serves as a reminder that the choices you make in the game have real consequences and can shape the fate of both yourself and the characters you encounter.

Romance and Relationship

While Paladin Danse is not a romanceable companion in the traditional sense, you can still develop a deep and meaningful relationship with him. Building a strong bond with Danse requires understanding his values and supporting his ideals. As you travel together and make decisions that align with his moral compass, you will earn his trust and respect. While you cannot engage in romantic interactions with Danse, you can still experience a strong sense of camaraderie and loyalty. He will confide in you, share his thoughts and feelings, and stand by your side in the face of danger. The relationship you build with Danse is based on mutual respect, shared experiences, and a commitment to fighting for a better future. This type of connection can be just as rewarding as a romantic relationship, and it can have a significant impact on your overall experience in the game. The depth of your relationship with Danse will be evident in his dialogue, his actions, and his unwavering support for your decisions. He will become a trusted confidant and a valuable ally, making your journey through the Commonwealth a more meaningful and fulfilling experience. So, while you may not be able to romance Danse, you can still forge a powerful and lasting bond with this complex and compelling character.

Maximizing Danse's Potential

To truly maximize Paladin Danse's potential as a companion, equip him with the best gear and weapons you can find. Danse excels in combat, particularly with energy weapons and heavy armor. Give him a powerful laser rifle or plasma rifle, and he'll become an unstoppable force on the battlefield. Provide him with a suit of Power Armor to further enhance his durability and damage output. T-60 Power Armor, which is commonly associated with the Brotherhood of Steel, is an excellent choice for Danse. In addition to gear, consider his skills and abilities. Danse is proficient in both ranged and melee combat, so you can tailor his equipment to suit your playstyle. If you prefer ranged combat, focus on upgrading his energy weapons skills. If you prefer melee combat, equip him with a powerful melee weapon and invest in his melee combat perks. Don't forget to keep an eye on his health and provide him with stimpaks when necessary. Danse is a valuable asset in combat, so it's important to keep him alive and well. By equipping him with the best gear, weapons, and armor, and by supporting his skills and abilities, you can transform Danse into an even more formidable companion and a powerful ally in your fight for survival in the Commonwealth. He's not just a companion; he's a brother in arms, and with the right care, he'll be your most trusted ally.

Conclusion

Paladin Danse is more than just a companion; he's a complex character with a compelling story that adds depth and nuance to Fallout 4. Whether you agree with the Brotherhood's ideals or not, Danse's loyalty, sense of justice, and ultimate fate make him one of the most memorable characters in the game. From blasting ghouls at Cambridge Police Station to uncovering his hidden identity, your journey with Danse will be filled with tough choices and unforgettable moments. So, grab your Power Armor, stock up on stimpaks, and get ready to explore the Commonwealth with one of the most honorable companions you could ask for. Understanding his background and maximizing your relationship with him will undoubtedly enhance your Fallout 4 experience. So go out there and make the most of your time with Paladin Danse, guys! You won't regret it.