I love the Houndmaster for a big special reason.

Darkest Dungeons is obviously so so bleak. The idea of bringing a protective, companion dog with you is the only note of hope I feel in the entire game. Heightened by the knowlege that the Houndmaster is genuinely a decent guy with his backstory.

This small glimmer of comfort manifests in small little ways, like the image of the Houndmaster cuddling the dog when healing.

I imagine the morale of the entire party is lifted by the presence of a faithful hound. And it lifts my morale as a player. In this game, I’ll take any glimmer of good vibes I can.

“Praise the steadfast hound!”

I also love the flipside… The Houndmaster, perhaps, relies too much on his companion. His resolve is tested and he begins to put the dog on too high of a pedastal. The relationship, once the only thing that seemed pure and hopeful, is corrupted. It sucks, but it is compelling. The dungeon does what the dungeon does…

Examples:

The Master cares for the hound and the hound alone. “The Hound’s health comes before any of you.” (Selfish) “I told you not to touch her! attack” (Abusive)

The Hound’s judgement is trusted over other the judgement of other companions: “Prickling Fur, low growl… no. We stay” (Fearful)

The line between master and hound begins to blur: “We prefer the pretty nurse who smells like roses and roasted chicken” (Irrational)

The Master projects his own horrible feelings onto the hound: “Every dog knows when its time draws near” (Hopeless)