First off will there be companions in Skyrim?
If so will they be more like Fallout new vegas companions, with depth and an actual story, or will they be like Oblivion Companions, mindless, annoying and boring?
And can you hire temporary companions? ( IE: a mercenary to follow you if hired)

Yes there are companions. They'll be a mix with some having depth, and others being mindless. Best of both worlds.

Hope we get a badass elf archer. After seeing Iorveth in Witcher 2 every other elf is Meh!

You forgot to mention, dozens for hire.

i hope that for you guys there are companions but as for me i venture alone. alot easier to stay hidden and get a good vantage point alone.

Gotta have adoring fan... its what makes TES

Yea there will be companions in Skyrim, some will have depth/a story to them, while others will be like Oblivion and really have no dialogue or depth to them.