Board Thread:Off Topic/@comment-11276487-20130727161517/@comment-3012590-20130915224025

A good follower, to me, is one that is likable personally and has an engaging character. (s)He has to make you want to protect him or her and keep them alive (or following you). Serana definitely takes the cake, as she is highly interactive and unique, moreso than any others (Having practically half an entire DLC about you will do that, I guess). Mjoll and Cicero are also notable in that regard. Hey, if we don't like a character who can follow you (like most Housecarls), (s)he'll likely just become food for Boethiah.

Also, while a good follower does not need to have a high level cap to be desirable, having one that is unusually low can definitely be a deal-breaker. Otherwise, I'd enjoy having Sven or Derkeethus follow me around. The only thing redeemable about some weak followers is their Essential status...Which is for the opposite reason a deal-maker.