EDER : 6223 -> 6493 = 270 [Level 4]
XOTI : 6212 -> 6454 = 242 [Level 4]
+OTHER1 : 3000 -> 3216 = 216 [Level 3]
+OTHER2 : 3000 > 3192 = 192 [Level 3]
+OTHER3 : 3000 > 3172 = 172 [Level 3]
A test with a simple quest.
The test is simple :
I'm always on solo. I take 0 companions. All are left behind.
I pick them again after have acquired a small amount of XP.
There is absolutely no link between them. Because if I don't recruit 2 lasts companions : eder and Xoti have same amount of XP. 270 and 242. So with 6 left behind or 2 = same thing.
I have try to check or uncheck in a different order = no differences.
Only explaination : FIRST recruited have a flag, second a second flag with a low priority ETC. WITH a definitive diminushing return.
But with that, there is a problem : 270 - 192 = 78.
29 % less XP, and I am already with a level 3. (I need ideally MORE XP, than less for my Hired Companion...)
If I want to keep Eder but don't want favor it, I can't. Eder will always get more XP.
There are few people in others topics with 4 levels of difference with the left behind. This difference come to that^^...
So I am pretty SURE^^ that the LIST of service is the problem : When you uncheck Eder for example, Eder will come immediatly first of the list. I think he have a flag of "preference". (= an advantageous amount of XP when left behind because first recruited.)
So proposition : I am OK with this system, but why not create an element of gameplay arround of that ? Allow to the player to choose the priority list with XP ?
I move Eder, to the last place, I place my hired number one. I gain now 270 XP and eder 172.
Or more simple, why all the companion doesn't have same amount of XP ?
It is difficult to add a proof of concept with a saved game, but a simple try with the first quest allow to show that.