I can't decide on my next character build, either a Cowboy or a BoS Paladin.

Naming won't be a problem, I just take a name from a real life street or city somwhere.

I need to know who to side with on the MQ, either NCR or Independent for either one.

Cowboy: NCR if it's a sheriff/marshall, Independent if it's an outlaw.

Paladin: NCR because Independent because House and Caesar want the BoS killed.

Also, I haven't played the Independent MQ path yet. I sided with NCR with every character except one. The other one was House, but I had to abandon that character because I had to kill the Brotherhood (I already finished Eyesight to the Blind)

I know which companion I'll use for each character - Raul for cowboy, Veronica for Paladin.

Next time through use NO companions.


B)

I'd say play independent. You already did a few NCR playthroughs and it doesn't need to end bad for both BOS or NCR in an independent ending.

I'd say paladin, because my love for Energy Weapons. Though an outlaw is a very interesting character to build.

I used to love energy weapons too. Still like them, but my latest playthrough I took the hand loader perk, and if you use the special ammo with the likes of This Macihne, the brush gun, and the AM Rifle, there isn't much you can't kill in 2 shots. Heck, a brush gun with the special .45-70 ammo kills a deathclaw in 2 head shots. Only problem is you need a high repair to make the .45-70 and .50 MG special ammo, and high gun skills to use the guns (plus strength for the AM rifle).

As for what to play though next, I'd say play a cowboy who helps House. I like the BoS too, but you should at least try each ending once just to see the slides and see the different missions they offer.

If you normally use guns go for Paladin + Independent.
If mostly EW's or high RoF assault weapons go Cowboy and use pistols more.
Then try the independent or House route, as either makes a strong case for a freedom lovin' cowpoke.

Cowboy./ I find that it maed a more interesting playstyle, especially when you make it so you only stick with certain weapons. Allthough I have a paladin character, who I am trying to make pro ncr . But I hate NCR so may settle for hous/indepndant.