Gothic’s Colony lives or dies on its characters. This spoiler-light who’s-who covers the figures you’ll meet early, where to find them, and why each matters — without ruining the story. (For the faction leaders who recruit you, see The Three Camps.)
Diego — your first mentor (Old Camp)
A high-ranking Shadow of the Old Camp and the first person you meet inside the Barrier. Diego gives you the essential survival advice for the Colony’s brutal politics and steers you toward the Old Camp. Find him near the South Gate, where he’ll fill you in on what’s happening in the camp.
- Why he matters: following Diego’s route also walks you right past the free Old Sword (see Best Early Weapons). Listen to him early.
Gorn — the heavy hitter (New Camp)
A powerfully built fighter aligned with the Mercenaries of the New Camp, known for his strength, his love of heavy axes, and fierce loyalty. He shares a core bond with Diego, who saved him on arrival in the Colony.
- Why he matters: a natural ally if you lean New Camp / two-handed, and a recurring figure in the camp’s questlines.
Milten — the approachable Fire Mage (Old Camp)
The youngest of the Old Camp’s Fire Mages and your main contact within the magical circle. Unlike his arrogant peers, Milten is genuinely concerned for the colony and deeply involved in studying the magic ore and the Barrier itself. Find him on the path between the North Gate and the bridge of the Old Camp.
- Why he matters: your gateway to fire magic if you go Old Camp mage (see Magic & Rune Circles).
Lester — the grounded novice (Swamp Camp)
A novice of the Brotherhood of the Sleeper who’s far more skeptical and level-headed than his fellow cultists. He’s usually near the entrance of the Swamp Camp, acting as a diplomat and guide for newcomers — and he’ll join you to retrieve a document from a fort.
- Why he matters: your friendly face for joining the Swamp Camp and an early companion.
Xardas — the mysterious mage
Spoken of as the 13th magician, Xardas dwells in a tower far to the south, in the Orc Lands, guarded by a talking demon. You’ll be asked to seek him out as the story deepens.
- Why he matters: a pivotal figure in the main plot — we’ll keep the details light to avoid spoilers.
Other early names to know
- Mordrag — found at the Old Camp’s Southern Gate; he can escort you to the New Camp, a great early XP boost (see How to Level Up Fast).
- Thorus, Lares, Lester — the three camp recruiters; start their admission lines in The Three Camps.
- Scatty & Fingers — your earliest trainers (weapons and lockpicking).
How companions work in Gothic
Gothic doesn’t use a permanent party. Instead, certain characters escort or accompany you for specific quests — like Lester’s fort errand or Mordrag’s road trip to the New Camp. Use these moments: escorts will fight tough enemies for you while you still collect the full XP.
Meet them, do their tasks, and the Colony starts to feel less like a prison and more like a place with sides worth choosing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Diego in Gothic 1 Remake?
Diego is a high-ranking Shadow of the Old Camp and the first person you meet inside the Barrier. He acts as your mentor, points you toward the Old Camp, and is found near the South Gate. Following him also leads you past the free Old Sword.
Which characters can join you in Gothic 1 Remake?
Several key figures accompany you during specific quests — Lester, for example, joins you to retrieve a document from a fort. Companions in Gothic are quest-based escorts rather than permanent party members.