i love applying nuance to S.P.E.C.I.A.L stats
Preston and Hancock both have 9 charisma. But Preston's charisma comes from his earnest nature and generous reputation and Hancock's charisma comes from him being a natural leader and a silvertongue.
Cait and Deacon both have 10 perception. But most of Cait's perception goes into analyzing people's fighting styles and most of Deacon's perception goes into watching for lies, tells, or information between the lines.
In fallout 3 Charon and Ahzrukhal both have 3 charisma and intelligence. Charon's charisma is actually his sarcasm/dry humor appealing to other wastelanders or intimidation. Ahzrukhal's is his 'used car salesman' type of nature. Charon's intelligence is probably mostly gun repair and maintenance, and cooking explosives. Ahzrukhal's intelligence is probably emotional manipulation tactics and business know-how.
or alternatively: special stats being applied to them in comparison to their 'group'. Like Nick has 5 strength... when compared to other Gen 2 synths. Strong has 6 intelligence... when compared to other super mutants. X6-88 has 16 strength... when compared to other gen 3 synths.
