One of the more intriguing aspects of Sons of the Forest is its advanced AI systems, including the cannibals and friendly characters on the island. Very successful as a multiplayer game, the survival horror sequel made sure it took care of its solo players by introducing two possible AI companions to the player character (PC) that can be used to assist with building shelters, collecting materials, and defending the camp.
While everyone can start the island with the helpful AI companion Kelvin, a fellow rescue team member that was sent to find a missing billionaire and his family, there is another friendly face on the island named Virginia. Players will encounter Virginia reasonably early on in their playthrough, recognizable by her three arms and legs, and if they can befriend her, she is a fantastic combat asset. However, this requires patience, as Virginia isn't ready to join forces immediately. So, here's how to tame Virginia in Sons of the Forest.
Who is Virginia
Virginia is the daughter of the missing billionaire Edward Puffton. It's revealed in the intro that she is also marked as a missing person, but it takes little time for the PC to encounter her after the crash landing on the island. Virginia was seemingly a normal 20-year-old girl with a penchant for ballet, but her time in the forest has left her mind and body mutated.
Virginia first appears by approaching players at any point while exploring the expansive and creepy forest. She has six limbs (three legs and three arms) and is wearing a white leotard. She is very skittish and won't have the courage to get too close at first, but it is evident that she has a curious nature. As an AI companion, Kelvin will do just about anything he is told and can be commanded into action, while Virginia works more on her of her own volition. Another key difference is that Virginia can wield a firearm and engage in combat with the violent natives.
How to Tame Virginia
Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to gaining Virginia's trust. Her behavior is similar to that of a feral cat, and while walking toward players, she will run away if there is a sudden movement or the threat of violence.
The best way to tame Virginia is to put away all weapons whenever she shows up and to observe. Then, if she feels safe, she will break into a rather beautiful, if not unnerving, ballet routine for the PC. She will most likely run away after finishing her dance the first couple of times, but eventually, she will stick close and hang around after doing this a few times.
When Virginia is completely tamed, she eventually walks up to the player and gifts them a food item or small material. From there, she can be given a gun and will assist with fighting off the cannibals if they attack. Of course, her timid nature doesn't completely disappear, and she will be scared to fight at first. After a few battles, she will be ready to do her part and can become an invaluable defensive and offensive companion.
Sons of the Forest is available now in early access for PC.