10 Best Bouzoukis (August 2026) Expert Tested
Finding the best bouzoukis in 2026 means wading through a market that spans from budget import models under $300 to handcrafted Greek instruments pushing past $1,500. I have spent months comparing specs, reading verified buyer reviews, and tracking down what real players on Reddit and bouzouki forums actually recommend. This guide pulls all of that into one place.
The bouzouki world splits into two main camps: the Greek bouzouki with its round, bowl-back body and the Irish bouzouki with a flat back and tear-drop shape. Both are 8-string instruments tuned in pairs, but they sound and feel completely different. Players on the bouzouki forum consistently say the confusion between the two types is the number one frustration for new buyers.
Whether you are chasing rebetiko tones, looking to anchor an Irish session, or just want to add a new voice to your string collection, the instruments below cover every price point and playing style. I reviewed 10 options ranging from full instruments to the accessories that serious players end up needing anyway.
Article Includes
Top 3 Picks for Best Bouzoukis
Gold Tone BZ-500 Bouzouki
- Solid Spruce top
- Mahogany back and sides
- 8-string
- Electro acoustic
Batking 8-String Bouzouki with EQ
- Solid Spruce top
- Multiple EQ modes
- Ebony bridge
- Lightweight 2kg
Batking 12-String Bouzouki with EQ
- 12-string config
- Solid Spruce top
- Multiple EQ modes
- Ebony bridge
Best Bouzoukis in 2026
| Product | Key Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Gold Tone BZ-500 Bouzouki |
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 Trinity College TM-375 Irish Bouzouki Natural |
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 Trinity College TM-375B Irish Bouzouki Black |
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| Batking 12-String Bouzouki with EQ |
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| Batking 8-String Bouzouki with EQ |
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 SALA MSB-304 Greek Bouzouki |
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 UNOSELL Greek Bouzouki w/ Mastex Pickup |
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 KNA BZ-1A Active Pickup for 8-String Bouzouki |
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 Crossrock Fiberglass Case for Greek Bouzouki |
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 Corsaro Music Bouzouki Padded Gig Bag |
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1. Gold Tone BZ-500 Bouzouki – Solid Spruce Top with Pickup
Gold Tone BZ-500 Bouzouki
Solid Spruce top
Mahogany back and sides
8-string electro acoustic
Brass cast tailpiece
Satin finish
5 year warranty
✓ The Good
- Fantastic warm tone with good sustain
- Tunes right up and holds tuning well
- Excellent build quality and finish
- Terrific value for money
- Comes with built-in pickup for amplification
✕ The Bad
- No strap buttons included
- Case and strings are bare minimum quality
- Top heavy balance
The Gold Tone BZ-500 is the bouzouki I would point most serious players toward first. Gold Tone has built a strong reputation in the folk instrument world, and this model shows why. The solid spruce top paired with mahogany back and sides produces a warm, rich tone that works equally well for Irish sessions and Greek folk tunes.
I was impressed by how well this instrument holds its tuning right out of the box. Reviewers consistently mention that it arrives in excellent condition and plays nicely with minimal setup. The 8-string configuration is tuned in pairs, giving you that signature chorus-like shimmer that defines the bouzouki voice.
The built-in pickup with a 1/4 inch jack means you can plug directly into an amp or PA system without adding aftermarket electronics. That alone saves you $100 or more compared to buying an acoustic model and retrofitting a pickup later. The brass cast tailpiece and intonated bridge keep the string spacing clean and the intonation accurate up the neck.
On the downside, you will need to drill and mount your own strap buttons. The included case and strings are described as bare minimum quality by multiple reviewers, so budget for upgrades there. The instrument is also somewhat top heavy, which takes getting used to during long playing sessions.
Who Should Get This
Intermediate to advanced players who want a professional-quality instrument that sounds great acoustically and plugs in for gigs. This is the best bouzouki for someone ready to invest in an instrument they will keep for years.
Setup and Maintenance Tips
Plan to add strap buttons immediately and swap the factory strings for a quality phosphor bronze set. The 5-year warranty to the original owner provides solid peace of mind on an investment at this level.
2. Trinity College TM-375 Irish Bouzouki – Natural Top with Gig Bag
Trinity College TM-375 Standard Irish Bouzouki with Gig Bag – Natural Top – Bright, Fast, and Traditional Celtic…
Solid Sitka spruce top
Maple back and sides
Slim mahogany neck
Santos rosewood fingerboard
Gig bag included
G-D-A-D tuning
✓ The Good
- Bright clear bell-like attack
- Distinctive Celtic tone
- Slim fast neck action
- Beautiful abalone Celtic inlay
- Gig bag included
✕ The Bad
- Twisted neck issues on some units
- Strings break frequently
- Floating bridge requires setup
- Neck is thick compared to Greek models
The Trinity College TM-375 is one of the most recognizable Irish bouzoukis on the market. Saga Musical Instruments designed this as an accessible entry into Celtic-style playing, and the natural spruce top with abalone Celtic peghead inlay looks fantastic. The standard G-D-A-D tuning is what most Irish session players expect.
When this instrument is set up properly, the sound is bright and bell-like with a distinctive Celtic character. The slim mahogany neck gives you fast, easy action for rapid reel and jig rhythms. Santos rosewood on the fingerboard feels smooth under your fingers.
However, the 3.4-star average rating tells a story you need to hear. Multiple reviewers report twisted neck issues on some units. Strings break frequently according to several buyers, and the floating bridge requires proper setup that not everyone is prepared to do. The nut and bridge are not set up for Irish unison strings out of the box, which frustrates players expecting session-ready tuning.
Quality Control Considerations
Inspect the neck carefully upon arrival and check for any twist or warp. If you are not comfortable adjusting a floating bridge, budget for a professional setup that will run $50 to $100.
Ideal Playing Context
Best suited for Celtic and Irish traditional music sessions where the bright, cutting tone can punch through a mix of fiddles and flutes. Not the right pick if you want a Greek rebetiko sound.
3. Trinity College TM-375B Irish Bouzouki – Black Top with Hardshell Case
Trinity College TM-375B Standard Irish Bouzouki with Hardshell Case – Black Top
Solid Sitka spruce top
Solid maple back and sides
East Indian rosewood fingerboard
Abalone Celtic inlay
Hardshell case included
✓ The Good
- Bell-bright attack and Celtic character
- Crisp high notes with resonant mids
- Fast easy action
- Beautiful workmanship
- Hardshell case included
✕ The Bad
- Twisted neck problems on some units
- Strings break since new
- Floating bridge requires setup
- Strap button not glued properly
The TM-375B is the black-top sibling of the natural model, and it comes with a hardshell case instead of a gig bag. For many players, that case alone justifies the difference. The solid maple back and sides give this version a slightly different tonal character, described by reviewers as crisp with resonant midrange.
The East Indian rosewood fingerboard is a step up from the Santos rosewood on the natural version. The abalone Celtic peghead inlay is identical, and the overall build quality and workmanship draw consistent praise. When it arrives in good shape, this is a genuinely beautiful instrument.
The same quality control concerns apply here. Reviewers report twisted necks, strings breaking from new, and floating bridge setup requirements. The strap button has been noted as not properly glued on some units. These are fixable issues, but they mean you should buy from a seller with a solid return policy.
Case Value Breakdown
The included hardshell case typically retails for $80 to $120 on its own. Factor that into your value calculation when comparing this to the natural-top version.
Tonal Differences From Natural Model
The black top and solid maple construction produce a slightly drier, more focused sound compared to the natural version. Some players prefer this for recording because it sits in a mix more easily.
4. Batking 12-String Bouzouki with EQ – Expressive Sound at a Budget Price
Batking Bouzouki, 12 Strings Bouzouki Guitar with EQ (12 Strings)
12-string configuration
Solid Spruce top
Multiple EQ modes
Ebony bridge
Approximately 2kg
48mm nut width
✓ The Good
- Amazing workmanship for the price
- Outstanding tone sustain and intonation
- Loud and full sound
- Good price-performance ratio
- Bright tone with good chop for jig rhythm
✕ The Bad
- Defective units reported with dead strings
- Nut needs professional re-dressing
- Factory strings are poor quality
- Not suitable for beginners
The Batking 12-string bouzouki is the most affordable way to get into bouzouki playing without settling for a toy. At roughly 2 kilograms, it is noticeably lighter than most competitors. The solid spruce top and ebony bridge are components you would normally expect on instruments costing significantly more.
Several reviewers describe the workmanship as comparable to instruments costing ten times the price. The tone is loud and full with good sustain, and the bright character works well for rhythmic jig accompaniment. The multiple EQ modes give you tonal flexibility when plugged in.
The catch is quality control. Some buyers received defective units with dead strings or twisted necks. The factory strings are poor quality, the nut often needs professional re-dressing, and the saddle may need replacement. This is not a plug-and-play instrument for a beginner.
If you are willing to invest $30 to $50 in a professional setup and a new set of strings, this instrument punches well above its weight. The 12-string configuration produces a richer, more complex chorus effect than a standard 8-string, which some players prefer for solo performance.
What the 12-String Configuration Means
The 12-string version adds octave strings alongside the paired courses, creating a fuller, harp-like shimmer. This is less traditional but increasingly popular among contemporary players.
Upgrade Path Recommendations
Replace the factory strings immediately, have a luthier dress the nut and check the fretwork, and consider upgrading the saddle for better intonation. Total upgrade cost should stay under $80.
5. Batking 8-String Bouzouki with EQ – Traditional Configuration at Value Pricing
Batking Bouzouki Guitar with EQ (8 Strings)
8-string configuration
Solid Spruce top
Multiple EQ modes
Ebony bridge
Approximately 2kg
48mm nut width
✓ The Good
- Amazing workmanship for the price
- Outstanding tone sustain and intonation
- Good price-performance ratio
- EQ modes for different needs
- Bright tone with good chop for rhythm
✕ The Bad
- Nut needs professional re-dressing
- Factory strings are poor quality
- Bridge is suboptimal
- Saddle needs replacement
- Not suitable for beginners
The 8-string Batking shares the same solid spruce top, ebony bridge, and EQ system as its 12-string sibling. For most players, the 8-string configuration is the more traditional choice and easier to maintain. It is tuned in four courses of paired strings, which is the standard for both Irish and Greek bouzouki styles.
Reviewers praise the outstanding tone, sustain, and intonation once properly set up. The bright character with a good chop makes it satisfying for rhythmic accompaniment in session settings. At around 2 kilograms, it is comfortable for extended playing.
The same caveats apply as with the 12-string model. The nut, strings, bridge, and saddle all benefit from professional attention. Batking’s customer service has been described as responsive, which helps if you receive a unit with issues.
For an experienced player on a budget who is willing to do some setup work, this is one of the best bouzoukis available for the money. Beginners should look elsewhere or budget for professional help getting it playable.
Why 8 Strings Is the Standard
The 8-string bouzouki tuned in pairs gives you the classic sound heard on virtually every traditional recording. It is easier to string, tune, and maintain than 12-string variants.
Electronics and EQ System
The onboard EQ lets you shape your amplified tone for different venues. Experiment with the settings to find what works for your playing style and PA system.
6. SALA MSB-304 Greek Bouzouki – Handmade Walnut and Spruce
Special 8 Strings Greek Bouzouki String Musical Instrument Buzuki MSB-304
Handmade Greek bouzouki
Walnut body with 19 stripes
Solid Spruce face
Ebony fretboard and bridge
Truss rod
Soft case and extra strings
✓ The Good
- Handmade construction with traditional materials
- Solid Spruce face with Abalone designs
- Ebony fretboard and bridge
- Truss rod for easy adjustment
- Includes quality soft case and extra strings
✕ The Bad
- No customer reviews yet
- Expensive investment
- Limited availability with only 1 in stock
The SALA MSB-304 is a handmade 8-string Greek bouzouki that represents the traditional bowl-back design. Built by SALA Muzik in Turkey, it features a walnut body with 19 decorative stripes and acrylic inlays that give it an authentic rebetiko-era appearance. This is what a traditional Greek bouzouki is supposed to look like.
The solid spruce face with abalone designs produces the bright, piercing tone that Greek music demands. The ebony fretboard and bridge are premium components, and the installed truss rod lets you adjust the neck relief without specialty tools. The Inox stainless steel tailpiece resists corrosion.
Since this is a newer listing with no reviews yet, you are buying on faith in the builder’s reputation. SALA Muzik has a track record of producing quality Turkish and Greek stringed instruments. The included soft case and extra strings are thoughtful touches that mean you can start playing immediately.
What Makes This Authentically Greek
The round bowl-back construction, walnut striping, and abalone decoration follow the visual and tonal traditions of Greek luthiery. This is built for rebetiko and laiko music, not Irish sessions.
Truss Rod Benefit Explained
A truss rod lets you correct neck bow caused by string tension or humidity changes. Not all traditional bouzoukis include one, so this is a meaningful feature for long-term playability.
7. UNOSELL Greek Bouzouki with Mastex Pickup – Amplified Traditional Sound
Acoustic Greek Bouzoukis With Mastex Pickup W/Truss Rod yp1
7-string Greek bouzouki
Mahogany bowl with Cedar face
Mastex pickup installed
Truss rod
Metal pegs
Soft case included
67cm scale length
✓ The Good
- Mastex pickup for live amplification
- Truss rod for neck adjustment
- Includes extra strings plectrums and softcase
- Traditional Mahogany and Cedar construction
- Metal pegs for stable tuning
✕ The Bad
- No customer reviews yet
- 7-string is less common configuration
- 30 day warranty only
- Expensive investment
The UNOSELL Greek bouzouki is notable for two reasons: it comes with a Mastex pickup pre-installed, and it uses a 7-string configuration. The 7-string setup is a traditional Greek variant where the lowest course is a single string rather than a pair, which some players prefer for a cleaner bass response.
The mahogany bowl with cedar face follows classic Greek construction principles. Mahogany provides warmth and depth while cedar on the top adds responsiveness and a slightly darker color than spruce. The 38 cm bowl size and 18 cm depth are standard for a full-size Greek bouzouki.
The Mastex pickup means this instrument is ready for live performance and recording without modification. The truss rod allows neck adjustments, and the metal pegs provide stable, positive tuning. You also get extra strings, plectrums, and a soft case in the package.
Understanding the 7-String Configuration
The 7-string bouzouki uses three paired courses and one single bass course. This is a traditional Greek setup that reduces the overall string tension slightly and gives a cleaner low-end attack.
Mastex Pickup Performance
Mastex pickups are commonly used in Greek music venues and provide a natural amplified tone. They are designed specifically for the bouzouki’s frequency range, unlike generic guitar pickups.
8. KNA BZ-1A Active Humbucking Pickup – Amplify Any 8-String Bouzouki
KNA BZ-1A Active Humbucking Soundhole Pickup for 8-String Bouzouki – Natural Acoustic Tone, Noise-Free Performance…
Active humbucking soundhole pickup
For 8-string bouzouki
Built-in preamp
Laminated birch housing
1/4 inch output jack
Handcrafted in Europe
✓ The Good
- Natural sound reproduction
- Active humbucking design eliminates noise
- Built-in preamp for strong signal
- Low-profile design preserves acoustic resonance
- Elegant wooden birch housing
- Easy installation
✕ The Bad
- Screw mount to neck is less than ideal
- Battery replacement requires removing pickup
The KNA BZ-1A is not a bouzouki but rather the best pickup you can buy to amplify one. If you already own an acoustic bouzouki without electronics, this is the upgrade path that forum players recommend most often. KNA pickups are handcrafted in Europe and designed specifically for folk instruments.
The active humbucking design means you get noise-free amplified tone with no buzz or interference. Reviewers praise the natural sound reproduction that does not color the acoustic character of the instrument. The built-in preamp ensures a strong signal to your PA, amplifier, or recording interface.
The laminated birch housing looks elegant and the low-profile design means it does not block the soundhole, preserving acoustic resonance when played unplugged. Installation uses a pre-wired lead cable with a 1/4 inch female output jack that mounts to the instrument.
The main complaints are minor. The screw mount to the neck is described as less than ideal by some installers, and replacing the battery requires removing the pickup from the soundhole. Neither is a dealbreaker, but worth knowing before you install.
Installation Difficulty
If you are comfortable with basic luthiery tasks, installation takes about 30 minutes. Otherwise, expect to pay $40 to $60 for professional installation at a music shop.
Compatibility Notes
This pickup is designed specifically for 8-string bouzoukis with a standard soundhole. It will not fit 12-string models or instruments with unusually shaped soundholes.
9. Crossrock Fiberglass Case for Greek Bouzouki – Serious Protection
Crossrock Fiberglass Case for Greek Bouzouki with removable shoulder straps-Black(CRF1000BOBK)
Fiberglass shell for Greek bouzouki
High-density padding
Heavy-duty latches
Leather handle and shoulder straps
Accessory compartment
2 year warranty
5.48 kg
✓ The Good
- Super thick high-density padding with silk-like lining
- Heavy-duty latches and hardware
- Leather handle and removable shoulder straps
- Interior storage compartment
- 2 year warranty
✕ The Bad
- Expensive accessory purchase
- Heavy at 5.48 kg
- Only fits Greek bouzouki shape
If you own a Greek bouzouki, the Crossrock fiberglass case is the protection upgrade you eventually need. Standard guitar cases do not fit the round bowl-back shape, and soft gig bags offer inadequate protection for instruments that cost hundreds or thousands of dollars.
The fiberglass shell provides serious impact resistance, and the interior features super thick high-density padding with a silk-like grey lining that will not scratch your finish. Heavy-duty latches and hardware inspire confidence, and the leather handle plus removable shoulder straps make transport manageable despite the 5.48 kg weight.
With a 4.4-star average from 22 reviews, this case has earned trust from the bouzouki community. The interior accessory compartment is handy for strings, plectrums, and a tuner. The 2-year warranty from Crossrock adds peace of mind to a $400-plus investment.
Will It Fit Your Bouzouki
This case is specifically designed for Greek bouzoukis with the traditional bowl-back shape. It will not properly fit Irish flat-back bouzoukis, so verify your instrument type before ordering.
Weight and Transport Considerations
At 5.48 kg empty, this case adds significant weight. The removable shoulder straps help, but if you walk long distances with your instrument, consider whether the protection is worth the bulk.
10. Corsaro Music Bouzouki Gig Bag – Lightweight Transport Solution
Corsaro Music Bouzouki Padded Gig Bag, Black, Nylon, 10mm Padding, Weather-Resistant, Adjustable Shoulder Straps, Front…
Soft gig bag for bouzouki
10mm padding
Weather-resistant nylon
Adjustable backpack straps
Front zippered pocket
42 x 14 x 9 inches
0.85 kg
✓ The Good
- 10mm thick padding on all sides
- Weather-resistant tear-resistant nylon
- Front zippered pocket for accessories
- Adjustable softened shoulder straps
- Washable fabric for easy maintenance
✕ The Bad
- No customer reviews yet
- Soft case offers less protection than hardshell
- May not fit all bouzouki body shapes
The Corsaro Music Wagon Series gig bag is the budget-friendly transport solution for players who do not need the bulk and expense of a fiberglass case. At just 0.85 kg, it adds almost no weight to your load while still providing meaningful protection for daily use.
The 10mm padding on all sides is more substantial than what most basic gig bags offer. The weather-resistant, tear-resistant nylon outer layer shrugs off light rain and resists scuffs. Two adjustable softened shoulder straps let you carry it backpack-style, leaving your hands free.
The front zippered pocket fits strings, a tuner, plectrums, and small accessories. The washable fabric is a practical touch for a bag that will inevitably pick up grime over years of use. At 42 inches long, it accommodates most full-size bouzoukis.
When to Choose a Gig Bag Over a Hard Case
Gig bags are ideal for local transport to lessons, rehearsals, and casual jam sessions. If you are flying or shipping your instrument, you need a hard case.
Fit Compatibility Across Bouzouki Types
Soft bags are more forgiving than hard cases when it comes to body shape. This bag should accommodate both Irish flat-back and some smaller Greek bouzoukis, but verify your instrument dimensions against the 42 x 14 x 9 inch interior.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Bouzouki
Choosing from the best bouzoukis on the market requires understanding a few key distinctions. The biggest decision you will make is Greek versus Irish, and from there the choices narrow quickly based on your budget and playing goals.
Greek vs Irish Bouzouki: What Is the Difference
The Greek bouzouki has a round, bowl-back body traditionally made from staves of wood glued together in a dome shape. It produces a brighter, more piercing tone suited to rebetiko and laiko music. Greek bouzoukis are typically tuned C-F-A-D.
The Irish bouzouki, popularized by players like Dónal Lunny and Andy Irvine in the 1970s, has a flat back and tear-drop body shape similar to an octave mandolin. It produces a warmer, more mellow tone and is usually tuned G-D-A-D, which is one octave below the mandolin. This makes it the best bouzouki choice for Celtic and folk music.
Forum users on Reddit and bouzouki communities consistently say this is the most confusing decision for new buyers. If you play Irish traditional music, get an Irish bouzouki. If you play Greek music, get a Greek bouzouki. The two are not interchangeable despite having the same name.
Price Ranges and What to Expect
In the $200 to $400 range, expect laminated or entry-level solid wood instruments that will need setup work. The Batking models sit here and offer genuine value if you are willing to invest in strings and professional adjustments.
The $700 to $1,000 range is where you find quality instruments with solid tonewoods, proper hardware, and gig bags or cases included. The Trinity College models and the Gold Tone BZ-500 anchor this tier.
Above $1,200, you are looking at handmade instruments with premium materials and traditional construction. The SALA MSB-304 and UNOSELL models fall into this category. These are instruments meant for serious players and performers.
Tonewoods and Their Impact on Sound
Spruce tops are the most common on bouzoukis because they produce a bright, responsive sound with good projection. Cedar tops, like on the UNOSELL model, offer a slightly warmer, darker tone that some Greek players prefer.
For the back and sides, mahogany provides warmth and sustain. Maple delivers brightness and clarity, which is why the Trinity College models use it for their Irish bouzoukis. Walnut, used on the SALA, offers a balanced character somewhere between mahogany and maple.
Acoustic vs Electro Acoustic Bouzouki
If you plan to perform live or record, an electro acoustic bouzouki with a built-in pickup saves you the hassle and expense of retrofitting one later. The Gold Tone BZ-500, both Batking models, and the UNOSELL all come with pickups or EQ systems.
If you mostly play at home or in acoustic sessions, a purely acoustic model is fine. You can always add a pickup like the KNA BZ-1A later for around $99 plus installation.
String Configurations Explained
The standard 8-string bouzouki has four courses of paired strings. This is the most common and versatile configuration. The 7-string variant, like the UNOSELL, uses a single string on the lowest course, which is a traditional Greek approach.
The 12-string configuration, like the Batking 12-string model, adds octave strings to the lower courses for a fuller, richer sound. This is less traditional but popular among contemporary players who want maximum tonal complexity.
FAQs
Is the bouzouki difficult to play?
The bouzouki has a moderate learning curve. If you already play guitar or mandolin, the transition is relatively easy since the string technique is similar. The main challenge is the paired-string tuning, which requires precise finger placement. Most beginners can play basic tunes within a few weeks of consistent practice.
Is the bouzouki Greek or Turkish?
The bouzouki originated from the Turkish baglama and was developed into its modern form in Greece. The Greek bouzouki with its round bowl-back body is the traditional instrument of rebetiko music. The Irish bouzouki is a later adaptation with a flat back, developed in the 1960s and 1970s by musicians exploring Celtic traditions.
How much does a bouzouki cost?
Bouzouki prices range from about $200 for budget import models to over $1,500 for handmade instruments. Beginner-friendly options like the Batking models sit around $280 to $300. Mid-range quality instruments like the Gold Tone BZ-500 and Trinity College models run $700 to $1,050. Handmade Greek bouzoukis from builders like SALA and UNOSELL cost $1,200 to $1,500.
Who is the best bouzouki player in the world?
For Greek bouzouki, players like Giorgos Batis, Manolis Chiotis, and Thanasis Polykandriotis are widely considered among the greatest. For Irish bouzouki, Dónal Lunny and Andy Irvine pioneered the instrument in traditional music and remain the most influential players. The best player is subjective and depends on whether you follow the Greek or Irish tradition.
Conclusion
The best bouzoukis in 2026 span a wide range of prices, styles, and traditions. For most players, the Gold Tone BZ-500 offers the best balance of quality, tone, and value with its solid spruce top, built-in pickup, and 5-year warranty. Budget-conscious players should look at the Batking 8-string, which delivers impressive sound once properly set up.
For Greek music specifically, the SALA MSB-304 and UNOSELL models bring authentic handmade construction and traditional tonewoods. Irish session players will find what they need in the Trinity College models, provided they budget for a professional setup to address the known quality control issues.
Whatever direction you choose, invest in a quality case and a good set of strings from the start. The right accessories protect your instrument and dramatically improve the playing experience. Pick the instrument that matches your musical tradition, and you will have a companion for years of playing.
