Energy is really worthwhile once you get to the part in the main quest where the Enclave come in, cause they’re all wielding energy weapons. As well, the AP cost to use these in VATS is way lower than with small guns. My partner can shoot three times in VATS with a Chinese Assault Rifle but can shoot 6 times with the Laser Rifle. And the of course the Alien Blaster is one of the best weapons in the game, though good luck finding more ammo for it.
That said, the BoS Outcasts will take in your technology (mostly Laser and plasma rifles) in exchange for ammo, which can be really handy if you choose not to use them.
I’ve been collecting all the BoS armour I find in the wastelands and repairing it in my home. Eventually I’ll have a nice strong suit, which I’ll probably sell off cause I don’t find it really fits my playing method this time.
Sneaking is handy at times, and can be really handy if you want to steal passwords/keys from people. But I don’t find it terribly appealing. I used it during my lower levels but now that I’m pretty strong I can just wipe em out. And I’m playing on hard mode.
BTW, I haven’t met her myself, but apparently Fawkes is a female. Or was a female before becoming an androgynous Super Mutant. :)