If you have played *Fallout 4* for a while, you might have come across the term “mercenary” in different situations. But what happens when the mercenaries in the game don’t behave as expected, or even worse, break the game in some way? Let’s dive into the wild world of mercenaries in *Fallout 4* and explore how they can impact your gameplay, as well as ways to fix those issues!

What Are Mercenaries in Fallout 4?
Before we jump into the problem, let’s quickly remind ourselves what mercenaries are in *Fallout 4*. Mercenaries are typically hireable NPCs that help you on your journey through the wasteland. They are soldiers for hire, ready to assist with combat, exploration, or simply by making you feel a bit safer in this dangerous world. The beauty of these characters is that they can be essential during tough fights or when you’re feeling a little too alone in the wasteland.
However, as with anything in *Fallout 4*, sometimes things go wrong. Have you ever hired a mercenary, only to find that they glitch out, get stuck in the environment, or just vanish into thin air? Yeah, it’s frustrating. But fear not! We’ve got you covered.
What’s the Problem with Mercenaries in Fallout 4?
Many players have reported strange issues with mercenaries in the game. Some mercenaries refuse to follow you, even when you desperately need their help in combat. Others have a habit of getting stuck on terrain, leaving you to fight off super mutants on your own. Worse yet, some mercenaries have a tendency to “disappear” from your party, which is incredibly annoying when you’re in the middle of a tough mission.
These issues seem to happen mostly when players are exploring specific areas, like the dense forests of the Commonwealth or inside complicated buildings. It’s especially frustrating when you need your mercenary’s help to finish off enemies or complete objectives.
How to Fix Mercenary Problems in Fallout 4
Luckily, there are several ways to solve these mercenary-related problems. Let’s go over some solutions!
1. **Reload Your Save**: Sometimes, the quickest fix for a stuck mercenary is to reload a save from a previous point in the game. It may seem simple, but this can often get your mercenary back to their duties.

2. **Check Your Mods**: If you’re playing with mods, one of them might be causing issues. Try disabling mods that alter NPC behavior or pathfinding. It’s amazing how many mod conflicts can affect your mercenaries’ performance.
3. **Command Your Mercenary**: Did you know that you can give orders to your mercenaries? Try telling them to “wait” and then calling them again to see if they snap out of their stuck state. Sometimes, all it takes is a little direction to get them moving again!
4. **Update Your Game**: If you’re experiencing mercenary problems after a patch or an update, make sure your game is fully up to date. Developers regularly fix bugs like these in newer patches.
5. **Adjust Settings**: If your mercenaries are disappearing or bugging out due to the game’s settings, try lowering the graphics or adjusting the AI settings to see if that helps.
What Are Players Saying About Mercenaries in Fallout 4?
The *Fallout 4* community is full of passionate players who love sharing their experiences. Some players have vented their frustrations online, explaining how mercenaries can ruin an otherwise enjoyable gameplay experience.
One player on Reddit shared their experience with a mercenary who disappeared right in front of them during a critical battle: “I was fighting a Deathclaw and needed my mercenary. Just when the fight was getting tough, he just… vanished. Never saw him again!” Many other players joined in with similar stories.
However, not all feedback is negative. Some players have said that hiring mercenaries added to their fun, especially during difficult quests. “I love having extra help in the game! Sure, they get stuck sometimes, but I just give them a few commands and they’re back in action!”
Conclusion: How Do You Deal with Mercenaries?

Mercenaries in *Fallout 4* can be a great help, but they can also be a source of frustration when things go wrong. Whether they’re stuck on a rock or disappearing in the middle of a mission, it can feel like your trusty sidekick is letting you down. Fortunately, there are ways to fix most mercenary-related problems with a little patience and the right steps.
So, here’s a question for you: Have you ever had a mercenary-related disaster in *Fallout 4*? How did you solve the problem? Share your experience in the comments below!
In summary, while mercenaries in *Fallout 4* can have their moments of glitchiness, they’re still one of the fun features of the game. With the right knowledge and fixes, you can continue to enjoy the adventure with your trusty hired hands by your side!