I like the idea of them possibly being found in random encounters. (you encounter Junktown Scouts, Pig Rats, and a Traveler) If they survive you get a chance to chat with them, if you have the PP they say something like "Thanks for the help, how bout we tromp around together?" Sadly though the way the system works, it's the same with companions as it is with resources, caps, and everything else, The gangs will make one million alts, camp them everywhere, and the Minor small time players get nothing.