70 Most Popular Video Game Characters of All Time: Who's No. 1?
In this article, we will be discussing the 70 most popular video game characters of all time. Video games have come a long way since their inception in the 1970s, as have the characters within them. These digital creations have become household names and are beloved by millions of gamers worldwide.
From the classic arcade games of the 80s to the highly advanced games of today, video game characters have captured our imaginations and become an integral part of our pop culture. Whether you're a casual gamer or a die-hard fan, this article will bring back memories and introduce you to some of the most iconic characters in gaming history.
Also Useful: Best Multiplayer Games of All Time
Skip to
The 70 Most Popular Video Game Characters of All Time
In the world of gaming, some characters stand out from the rest. These characters have become icons in the world of video games and have earned a special place in our hearts. Let's look at the 70 most popular video game characters.
Also Related: Biggest Twitch Donations of All Time
70. Kitana
Kitana is a character in the widely popular Mortal Kombat fighting game franchise, developed by Midway Games and NetherRealm Studios. First introduced in Mortal Kombat II in 1993, she was brought to life by creators Ed Boon and John Tobias.
As a skilled fighter, Kitana wields various weapons throughout the series, including steel fans, a flying blade, a glaive, a bō staff, and sais. Her agility and deadly techniques make her a formidable opponent in the Mortal Kombat universe.
Also Check: Need for Speed Games List in Order (1994-2024)
69. Scorpion
Scorpion is a classic character in the Mortal Kombat series, developed by Midway Games and NetherRealm Studios. Making his debut in the 1992 original game, Scorpion is an undead ninja seeking vengeance for his own death.
His signature yellow outfit and fiery attacks have become iconic, and he has appeared in every main installment of the series. Scorpion's relentless pursuit of justice makes him a favorite and a staple character in the Mortal Kombat franchise.
Check More: Best PS5 RPG Games in 2024
68. Urdnot Wrex
Urdnot Wrex is a central character in BioWare's Mass Effect franchise, first appearing in the 2007 game Mass Effect. As a member of the Krogan race, Wrex belongs to a species known for its violent tendencies and rapid population growth, which led to near-sterilization by other galactic races. Wrex serves as a party member in the first game of the Mass Effect trilogy, showcasing his strength, resilience, and wisdom in the fight against various threats.
Also Useful: Best PS4 Boxing Games in 2024
67. Rayman
Rayman is a colorful and imaginative character created by Michel Ancel for Ubisoft. Since the launch of the original Rayman game in 1995, the franchise has expanded to a total of 45 games across multiple platforms.
Comprehended appearance, Rayman is a limbless hero who uses his floating hands and feet to navigate various worlds, overcoming obstacles and defeating enemies. The series is celebrated for its vibrant art style, inventive gameplay, and engaging storyline.
Also Related: Best Roblox Horror Games in 2024
66. McCree
McCree is a character from the popular video game Overwatch, known for his calm demeanor and carefree attitude. Once an outlaw, McCree has turned a new leaf and focuses on doing the right thing, using his sharpshooting skills to protect the innocent.
As a cowboy-themed hero, he wields a powerful revolver and uses a combination of precision and cunning to outsmart his opponents. McCree's commitment to justice and his unique style make him a memorable character in the Overwatch universe.
Also Check: Best Multiplayer PS5 Games in 2024
65. Bonnie MacFarlane
Bonnie MacFarlane is a fictional character in the popular Red Dead series of video games created by Rockstar Games. She first appeared as a major character in Red Dead Redemption, playing a vital role in the game's story.
In the game, Bonnie is a tough and independent rancher who helps the protagonist, John Marston, in his quest to bring justice to the American West. She is also referenced in Red Dead Redemption 2 and appears as a stranger in the online multiplayer mode, Red Dead Online.
Check More: Best PS4 Dirt Bike Games in 2024
64. Subzero
Subzero is a legendary warrior in the Mortal Kombat fighting game franchise. He is part of the fictional Lin Kuei clan, known for their mastery of ice and ability to control it in many forms. Subzero has been a staple character in the Mortal Kombat franchise since its inception and is one of the most popular and recognizable characters in the series.
He is known for his fierce fighting skills and his cold, calculating demeanor, making him a formidable opponent in the arena.
Also Useful: Best Games Like It Takes Two in 2024
63. Pac-Man
Pac-Man is a classic arcade game first released in 1980 and has since become one of the most iconic and recognizable video games ever. The game was developed, published, and owned by Bandai Namco Entertainment, previously known as Namco.
In Pac-Man, players control the titular character, a yellow circle with a mouth, as he navigates through a maze of dots and ghosts. The game's goal is to eat all the dots while avoiding ghosts, and it has become a classic example of simple yet addictive gameplay.
Also Related: Best PS5 Racing Games in 2024
62. Earthworm Jim
Earthworm Jim is a classic video game series that has been around for decades. The game features an earthworm named Jim, who is dressed in a robotic suit, and he battles the forces of evil.
The game is known for its platforming and shooting gameplay, surreal humor, and edgy art style. Players control Jim as he moves through different levels, fighting enemies and solving puzzles. The series has been praised for its unique blend of humor and action, as well as its imaginative and creative art style.
Also Check: Best Cross-Platform Games To Play in 2024
61. Deckard Cain
Deckard Cain is a beloved character in the Diablo video game franchise by Blizzard Entertainment. He first appeared in the original Diablo game in 1997 and has since appeared in numerous other Diablo titles.
Deckard Cain is known for his wisdom, knowledge, and guidance, as well as his deep connection to the world of Sanctuary. He is a trusted ally to the player, and he helps guide the player through the dangers and challenges of the world.
60. Ganondorf
Ganondorf is the primary antagonist of the popular The Legend of Zelda video game series by Nintendo. He is a powerful wizard and the final boss in many Zelda titles. Ganondorf is known for his cunning, strength, and evil ways, and he is a formidable foe for the hero, Link.
Throughout the series, Ganondorf is a constant threat, and the player must overcome his obstacles and defeat him in order to save the land of Hyrule. Despite his evil ways, however, Ganondorf is also a complex and multi-dimensional character, and many fans have come to love and appreciate him over the years.
59. Fargoth
Fargoth is a fictional character in the video game "The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind". He is a Bosmer Commoner, a member of the Wood Elves race, living in the town of Seyda Neen. The Bosmer are known for their diminutive size and nature, and Fargoth is no exception. He is a quirky and slightly odd character beloved by many game players.
In the game, Fargoth plays a small but important role. He is initially portrayed as a somewhat nervous and paranoid character who is convinced that someone is out to get him. He asks the player character to retrieve a ring stolen from him, and in return, he offers a small reward. This quest is often seen as one of the game's earliest and most memorable moments.
58. Megaman
Megaman, known as Rockman in Japan, is a popular video game franchise created by Capcom. It is a science fiction game that stars a series of robot characters, each known by the "Mega Man." The first game in the series, "Mega Man," was released on December 17, 1987.
The franchise has since grown in popularity and has become one of the most well-known video game franchises in history. The games typically feature a hero, Mega Man, who must battle against various villains in order to save the world. The gameplay is known for its challenging difficulty, innovative level design, and memorable boss battles.
The series has also inspired various spin-off games, animated series, and other media. The character of Mega Man has become an icon in the gaming industry, and the franchise remains popular with fans today.
57. Jonathan Irons
Jonathan Irons is a character who appears in the video game "Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare". He is a wealthy businessman and the CEO of Atlas, a private military corporation that plays a central role in the game's story.
Irons is portrayed as a ruthless and cunning character who is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals. He sees himself as a visionary and a leader, and he is determined to shape the world's future in his own image.
Irons is also notable for his use of advanced military technology, including powerful weapons and exosuits that give him enhanced physical abilities. He is a formidable opponent, and players must use all their skills to defeat him. The character is played by actor Kevin Spacey, who delivers a memorable and powerful performance
56. Spyro the Dragon
Spyro is a beloved video game series featuring a dragon as the main protagonist. The series first debuted in 1998 on the Sony PlayStation with the game Spyro the Dragon. Since then, the series has seen numerous sequels and a reboot trilogy, solidifying Spyro as a beloved character in video games.
As the show's star, Spyro is a dragon with a fiery personality and a love for adventure. Players control Spyro as he navigates through various fantastical worlds, using his breath as a weapon and his agility to overcome obstacles. Whether you're a fan of platformers or just love a good dragon story, Spyro is a must-play for any video game enthusiast.
55. Handsome Jack
Handsome Jack is the infamous villain of the Borderlands video game franchise. He serves as the President of the Hyperion Corporation and takes control of the planet Pandora, making him the main antagonist of Borderlands 2. Jack is known for his charismatic personality, quick wit, and love for power.
Players will encounter Jack throughout their journey on Pandora, and it's up to them to stop his evil plans. With his charming demeanor and his cunning ways, Handsome Jack is a memorable and entertaining character that players love to hate.
54. Pit of Kid Icarus
The pit is the protagonist of the Kid Icarus series and has been a beloved character since his debut in 1986 on the Nintendo Entertainment System. The pit is an angel with a big heart and an even greater sense of adventure. He is tasked with saving the world from the evil forces of the underworld, and players control Pit as he battles his way through various levels, using his trusty bow and arrow to defeat enemies.
The Kid Icarus series is known for its unique blend of platforming and action, and Pit's cheerful personality adds a touch of humor to the mix. Whether you're a fan of classic video games or just love a good hero's journey, Pit and the Kid Icarus series is a must-play for any gaming enthusiast.
53. Rayne
Rayne is a fictional character and the protagonist of the BloodRayne series of video games. She is a half-human, half-vampire hybrid who is a member of the Brimstone Society and is tasked with hunting down and destroying supernatural threats.
Rayne is a skilled fighter with superhuman strength and agility, as well as the ability to drain the blood of her enemies. She has appeared in both video games and later extended media, such as comic books and films related to the series.
52. Max Payne
Max Payne is the protagonist of the neo-noir third-person shooter video game series of the same name. He is a former New York City police detective who becomes a vigilante after his family is murdered by drug addicts. In the series, Max is on a quest for revenge as he battles against organized crime and the corrupt elements of society.
His slow-motion fighting style, combined with his serious and intense attitude, is what he's famous for. Throughout the series, players follow Max as he navigates through a world of crime, violence, and betrayal.
51. Banjo
Banjo is a brown honey bear who is one of the two main protagonists in the Banjo-Kazooie series of video games. He is a laid-back, happy-go-lucky character who loves to collect golden jigsaw pieces called "Jiggies." Banjo is accompanied by his best friend and sidekick, Kazooie, who resides inside his backpack.
Together, they embark on various adventures and battles against the evil witch, Gruntilda. The Banjo-Kazooie series is known for its colorful, whimsical world and challenging puzzle-based gameplay.
50. Master Chief
Master Chief is a beloved hero and a central character in the popular Halo franchise. He is also known as Master Chief Petty Officer John-117, and he's a super-soldier who has become a symbol of hope for humanity.
Master Chief is famous for his bravery, strength, and tactical skills, and he has been praised by fans for his heroic acts against alien forces. He's a fan-favorite who has captured the hearts of many gamers worldwide.
49. Lara Croft
Lara Croft is a well-known inventor and the main protagonist of the Tomb Raider video game series. She's an intelligent and athletic British archaeologist who is always on the hunt for adventure. Lara is famous for her fearlessness, her fighting spirit, and her love for exploration. Her character in video games has gained iconic status and has been a source of inspiration for numerous people around the world.
48. Kratos
Kratos is a character from the popular God of War video game franchise, and he's known for his intense anger and his pursuit of revenge against the gods. He's a Spartan warrior featured in multiple games, and his story has been inspired by Greek and Norse mythology. Kratos is a character that gamers worldwide love, and his story has inspired many spin-offs and adaptations.
47. Solid Snake
Solid Snake is a beloved character from the Metal Gear series, created by Hideo Kojima and published by Konami. He's a legendary soldier featured in multiple games known for his exceptional stealth and combat skills. Snake is a tough and fearless character who has been praised by fans for his quick thinking and resourcefulness.
He's also a complex character whose story is full of twists and turns, making him a favorite among gamers worldwide. Snake's legacy has been cemented in the gaming world, and he remains an iconic figure even to this day.
46. Geralt of Rivia
Geralt of Rivia is a character from the Witcher Saga, a series of short stories and novels by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski. He's a magically enhanced monster-hunter known as a "witcher" with supernatural abilities due to his mutations. Geralt is a complex character with a troubled past, and his story has been praised for its depth and complexity. He's known for his fighting skills, intelligence, and witty personality.
Geralt has become a cultural phenomenon, and his story has inspired multiple adaptations, including a popular video game series and a Netflix original TV show. A lot of people who enjoy fantasy really love this character, and he has become really famous in gaming and entertainment.
45. Agent 47
The Hitman franchise features a video game character named Agent 47, the main protagonist. He is a genetically enhanced assassin and has appeared in all series games. Additional media such as two films, comics, and novels also feature the character, which was developed by IO Interactive.
Agent 47 is known for his ruthless efficiency and tactical skills, making him a formidable opponent to anyone who stands in his way. Many fans of stealth-action games adore him, and he holds a significant place in the gaming industry as an icon.
44. Commander Shepard
Commander Shepard is the player character in the Mass Effect video game series developed by BioWare. He's a customizable character who can be male or female, and his/her decisions and actions throughout the game impact the storyline and game outcomes.
Commander Shepard is known for his/her bravery, strategic skills, and leadership qualities, making him/her a crucial figure in the game's plot. He/she has become an iconic character in the gaming world, and his/her story has inspired many fans worldwide.
43. Samus Aran
The main character in the Metroid video game series developed by Nintendo is Samus Aran, designed by Makoto Kano and first appeared in the 1986 game Metroid as the playable character. Samus Aran is known for her powerful suit of armor and her exceptional combat and exploration skills.
She's a strong and independent character, and her story has inspired many fans worldwide. The fans of the Metroid series hold a strong affection for the character of Samus Aran, who has gained a prominent status in the gaming industry as an iconic figure.
42. Sam Fisher
Sam Fisher is a character from Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell series of video games developed by Ubisoft. He's a highly skilled agent for a fictional black ops division within the NSA. Sam Fisher is known for his stealth and tactical skills, making him an essential figure in the game's storyline.
Fans of stealth-action games love this character dearly, and his story has inspired multiple adaptations and sequels. Sam Fisher remains an icon in the gaming industry, and his legacy inspires many fans worldwide.
41. Cloud Strife
Cloud Strife is the main protagonist of Square's 1997 role-playing video game Final Fantasy VII and its high-definition remake, as well as several sequels and spinoffs. He's a former soldier and mercenary who becomes embroiled in a conflict between his past and his future. Cloud Strife is known for his calm and aloof personality, his exceptional combat skills, and his iconic Buster Sword.
Cloud Strife is a popular character among Final Fantasy fans who have inspired various adaptations and spinoffs. His legacy inspires many fans worldwide, and he remains an icon in the gaming industry.
40. Nathan Drake
Nathan Drake is a character most notably from the Uncharted video game series developed by Naughty Dog. He's an adventurer and treasure hunter who goes on various quests to uncover hidden artifacts and solve puzzles.
Nathan is known for his wit, charm, and fearless personality; fans of the series love him, making him a beloved character. He's also a complex character with a troubled past, making his story compelling and engaging.
39. Ellie
Ellie is a character from The Last of Us video game series developed by Naughty Dog. She's a young girl who becomes a crucial figure in the game's storyline. Ellie is known for her fierce spirit, intelligence, and resourcefulness, making her an essential character in the game's plot.
Ashley Johnson provided her voice and performed motion capture for the portrayal of the character, and her performance has been praised by fans and critics alike. Many people worldwide have been inspired by Ellie's story.
38. John Marston
John Marston is the main playable protagonist of the Red Dead video game series by Rockstar Games. He's a former outlaw forced to work for the government to save his family. John is known for his grit, determination, and exceptional gunfighting skills, making him an essential character in the game's storyline.
Many series fans adore him as a character, and his tale has resulted in several follow-up stories and adaptations.
37. Joel
Joel is a character from The Last of Us video game series developed by Naughty Dog. He's a survivor of a fungal pandemic that has devastated humanity, and he becomes a surrogate father figure to Ellie. Joel is known for his protective nature, his combat skills, and his complex personality, making him an essential character in the game's plot.
Troy Baker provides the voice and motion capture for the character, and his performance has been praised by fans and critics alike. Joel's story has had a profound impact on people worldwide, and he is now considered a legendary figure in the gaming industry.
36. Jill Valentine
Jill Valentine is a character from the Resident Evil survival horror game series created by Capcom. She was introduced as one of two player characters in the original Resident Evil game and has become a fan-favorite. Jill is known for her combat skills, intelligence, and resourcefulness, making her a crucial character in the game's storyline.
35. Gordon Freeman
Gordon Freeman is the main character in the Half-Life video game series, created by Gabe Newell and designed by Newell and Marc Laidlaw of Valve. He made his first appearance in the original Half-Life game. Gordon Freeman is a theoretical physicist who works at the Black Mesa Research Facility, where an experiment goes wrong, leading to an alien invasion.
The player takes on the role of Gordon Freeman and must navigate through the game's levels, fighting off aliens and completing various tasks to progress through the story. Gordon Freeman's iconic look, including his crowbar and hazard suit, has made him a beloved character in the gaming community.
34. Link
Link is the main character in Nintendo's video game franchise, The Legend of Zelda. He was created by Japanese video game designer Shigeru Miyamoto. Link is a heroic character tasked with rescuing Princess Zelda and saving the kingdom of Hyrule from various villains, such as Ganon.
The Legend of Zelda franchise has been around since 1986 and has been a fan favorite for decades. Link's iconic green tunic and hat, as well as his trusty sword and shield, have become synonymous with the series.
33. Big Daddy
Big Daddy is a character from the BioShock series of video games. Big Daddies are heavily spliced humans with their bodies directly grafted into heavily armored, steampunk-inspired atmospheric diving suits.
They are armed with a rivet gun, heavy drill, rocket launcher, or ion laser. Big Daddies are tasked with protecting the Little Sisters, who are used to collect ADAM, a substance used to enhance humans genetically. The Big Daddies have become one of the most iconic video game characters in recent years, with their unique design and backstory making them a fan favorite.
32. Princess Peach
Princess Peach is a character created by Shigeru Miyamoto and introduced in the 1985 original Super Mario Bros. installment. She is the princess regnant and ruler of the Mushroom Kingdom, where she resides in her castle along with Toads.
Princess Peach is often kidnapped by the villainous Bowser, and it's up to Mario and Luigi to save her. Princess Peach has become one of the most recognizable characters in the gaming world, with her pink dress and blonde hair making her stand out from other characters.
31. Chun-Li
Chun-Li is a character from Capcom's Street Fighter video game series. She is the first-ever female playable character to appear in a fighting game to gain mainstream recognition, first appearing in Street Fighter II: The World Warrior in 1991.
Chun-Li is a skilled martial artist who fights for justice and to avenge her father's death. Her signature move is the "Hyakuretsukyaku," a series of rapid kicks. Chun-Li has become a fan favorite over the years, with her iconic blue Qipao dress and spiked bracelets making her instantly recognizable.
30. Ezio Auditore da Firenze
Ezio Auditore da Firenze is a popular image in the Assassin's Creed video game series. He is an Italian master assassin and the main protagonist of the games set during the Italian Renaissance. The character was first introduced in Assassin's Creed II, and since then, he has become a fan favorite due to his unique personality and fascinating story.
Ezio is known for his exceptional combat skills, parkour abilities, and tactical intelligence, making him a formidable opponent for anyone who crosses his path. Additionally, he is portrayed as a magnetic leader who consistently defends what is fair and righteous.
29. Bowser
Bowser is a well-known antagonist in the Mario video game franchise. He is the leader of the turtle-like Koopa race and the arch-nemesis of Mario, the main protagonist of the series. Bowser is depicted as a powerful and ruthless villain who will stop at nothing to conquer the Mushroom Kingdom and defeat Mario.
He is also known for his incredible strength, durability, and fire-breathing abilities. Despite his villainous tendencies, Bowser is a popular character among gamers, and he has appeared in various spin-off games and media adaptations.
28. Ryu Hayabusa
Ryu Hayabusa is made-up of Tecmo's Ninja Gaiden video game series. He is also featured as a player character in the Dead or Alive fighting game franchise by Koei Tecmo and Team Ninja, where he serves as the protagonist in Dead or Alive 2. Ryu is a skilled ninja warrior known for his incredible agility, speed, and combat prowess.
He is depicted as a fierce fighter who will stop at nothing to defend his clan and protect innocent people from harm. Ryu has become a beloved character among gamers due to his impressive combat abilities and unique personality.
27. Mario
Mario is a famous video game character created by the Japanese designer Shigeru Miyamoto. He is the main protagonist of the video game franchise of the same name and the mascot of the Japanese video game company Nintendo. Mario has appeared in over 200 video games since his creation, making him one of the most recognizable and beloved characters in the gaming industry.
Including his red cap, mustache, and overalls. Mario is depicted as a brave and heroic character who is always ready to save the Mushroom Kingdom from danger.
26. Diddy Kong
Diddy Kong is a character in the Donkey Kong and Mario franchises. He first appeared in the 1994 Donkey Kong Country game and has since become a popular character among gamers. Diddy is depicted as a fun-loving, mischievous monkey who is always ready for adventure.
His impressive agility and acrobatic skills are well-known, making him a valuable asset. Diddy often appears as a sidekick to Donkey Kong, helping him on his quests and battling against their enemies. Despite his small size, Diddy is a fan favorite and has appeared in various spin-off games and media adaptations.
25. GLaDOS
GLaDOS is an imaginary and the main antagonist of the Portal video game series. She was created by Erik Wolpaw and Kim Swift and voiced by Ellen McLain. GLaDOS is an artificially intelligent computer system that serves as the central control unit of the Aperture Science facility.
Her role in the game is to oversee and guide the player through various puzzles and tests while providing witty and sarcastic commentary. She has a distinct personality and is known for her dry humor and passive-aggressive behavior.
24. Arthur Morgan
Arthur Morgan is the main playable protagonist of the 2018 video game Red Dead Redemption 2. He is a member of the Van der Linde gang and serves as a trusted enforcer and right-hand man to the gang leader, Dutch.
As players progress through the game, they learn more about Arthur's backstory and his relationships with other members of the gang. Arthur is a complex character with a strong sense of loyalty and honor, and his story is a central part of the game's narrative.
23. Sonic the Hedgehog
Sonic the Hedgehog is a video game character created by Naoto Ohshima and Yuji Naka. He is the title character of Sega's Sonic the Hedgehog video game franchise. He is an anthropomorphic blue hedgehog who can run at supersonic speeds and curl into a ball to attack enemies.
Sonic is known for his speed, agility, and bravery and is often called upon to save the world from various threats. He has become one of the most recognizable and iconic video game characters ever.
22. Cortana
Cortana is an artificially intelligent character in the Halo video game series. Voiced by Jen Taylor, she appears in Halo: Combat Evolved and its sequels, Halo 2, Halo 3, Halo 4, Halo 5: Guardians, and Halo Infinite.
Cortana is the AI companion of the series' protagonist, Master Chief, and serves as his primary means of communication with other characters. She is a highly advanced AI with a strong personality, and her story arc throughout the Halo series is a vital part of the franchise's narrative.
21. Duke Nukem
Duke Nukem is the protagonist of the Duke Nukem series of video games. The character first appeared in the 1991 video game Duke Nukem, developed by Apogee Software, and has since appeared in multiple sequels developed by 3D Realms.
Duke Nukem is a tough, wise-cracking action hero who battles aliens and other threats to humanity. He is known for his brash attitude, catchphrases, and over-the-top action sequences.
20. Marcus Fenix
Marcus Fenix is the protagonist from the first three games in the Gears of War video game series. He first appeared in the first game of the series, released in 2006. Marcus is a former soldier called back into action to fight a new threat to humanity. He is a tough, no-nonsense character known for his leadership skills, combat expertise, and loyalty to fellow soldiers.
19. Alexios and Kassandra
Alexios and Kassandra are interconnected in Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed video game franchise. They first appeared as the player characters of the 2018 video game Assassin's Creed Odyssey. Players can choose to play as either character, who are siblings, in the game. They are both highly skilled fighters and are central to the game's narrative, which takes place in ancient Greece.
18. Price
Price is a character from the Call of Duty series. He is the main protagonist of the original Modern Warfare sub-series. In the trilogy, Price first ranked as a lieutenant before being promoted to Captain and taking charge of a Special Air Service squad.
Price is a skilled soldier and leader known for his bravery, resourcefulness, and tactical expertise. He is a fan-favorite character in the series, and his story arc has been a key part of the franchise's narrative.
17. Guybrush Threepwood
Guybrush Threepwood serves as the main protagonist of the Monkey Island series of computer adventure games by LucasArts. He is a hapless and often clueless pirate who bumbles through various comedic adventures.
Guybrush is known for his quick wit, humor, and charming personality. He has become a beloved character in the adventure game genre and is considered one of the most iconic characters in gaming history.
16. Doomguy
Doomguy is the protagonist of the Doom video game franchise of first-person shooters created by id Software. He was created by American video game designer John Romero and was introduced as the player character in the original 1993 video game Doom. Doomguy is a space marine who battles hordes of demons and other supernatural threats to humanity.
He is known for his bravery, combat skills, and ability to overcome seemingly impossible odds. Doomguy has become an iconic character in the gaming world and is often considered one of the greatest video game protagonists ever.
15. Luigi
The character named Luigi is not a real person but a made-up character in the Super Mario video game series. Luigi is Mario's younger twin brother and was invented by video game designer Shigeru Miyamoto. He made his first appearance in the Mario Bros. arcade game in 1983.
Luigi is often portrayed as Mario's sidekick and player two in cooperative games. Luigi is recognizable for his taller and thinner appearance compared to Mario, as well as his green outfit and white gloves.
14. Sephiroth
Final Fantasy VII is a role-playing video game developed by Square, in which Sephiroth is a fictional character and the primary antagonist. He is a former member of SOLDIER, an elite unit of the Shinra Electric Power Company, and possesses superhuman strength and agility.
Sephiroth is known for his long silver hair, black leather coat, and katana sword. He is considered one of the most iconic and memorable villains in video game history.
13. Tom Nook
In the Animal Crossing video game by Nintendo, Tom Nook is a fictional character. He is a raccoon dog who operates the village store and provides players various services such as selling and buying goods, offering loans, and upgrading the player's home.
Tom Nook first appeared in the Nintendo 64 game Dōbutsu no Mori, released in Europe and North America on the GameCube as Animal Crossing.
12. Trevor Philips
In Grand Theft Auto V, created by Rockstar Games, Trevor Philips is a fictional character. He is one of the game's three protagonists and a former bank robber who lives in Los Santos, a fictional city based in Los Angeles. Trevor is known for his erratic and violent behavior, making him a fan favorite among players.
11. Fox McCloud
The video game series by Nintendo called Star Fox has a main hero named Fox McCloud. He is a fox with human-like characteristics and is in charge of a group of other animals with similar traits called the Star Fox team. Fox was created and designed by Shigeru Miyamoto and Takaya Imamura and first appeared as a player character in the original 1993 video game Star Fox.
10. M. Bison
M. Bison, or Vega in Japan, is a fictional character created by Capcom for the Street Fighter series. He is a villainous recurring character and serves as one of the main antagonists in the series. M. Bison leads a criminal organization called Shadaloo and has the special power to control psychic energy.
9. Sylvanas Windrunner
Sylvanas Windrunner is a make-believe in the Warcraft series of video games by Blizzard Entertainment. She is the former leader of the undead faction known as the Forsaken and was once a high elf ranger. Sylvanas has a complex and controversial storyline, making her a popular character among fans of the series.
8. SHODAN
SHODAN is a fictional artificial intelligence and the main antagonist of the cyberpunk-horror-themed video games System Shock and System Shock 2. She is known for her cold, calculating demeanor and desire to eliminate all human life.
7. B.J. Blazkowicz
B.J. Blazkowicz is the protagonist of the Wolfenstein series of alternate history video games starting with 1992's Wolfenstein 3D. He is an American spy of Polish and Jewish descent specializing in one-man missions behind enemy lines. B.J. is known for his bravery and willingness to take on impossible odds.
6. Princess Zelda
Princess Zelda is a fictional character in The Legend of Zelda's video game series. She was created by Shigeru Miyamoto and introduced in the original 1986 game The Legend of Zelda. Zelda is often portrayed as a princess in need of rescue, but in some games, Zelda takes on a more active role in helping Link and saving the kingdom of Hyrule.
She possesses magical abilities and often serves as a guide or mentor to Link throughout his adventures. Zelda has appeared in multiple incarnations over more than three decades of the series, and her appearance and personality vary between different games.
5. Pyramid Head
Pyramid Head, also known as "Red Pyramid Thing" or "Red Pyramid," is a character from the Silent Hill series of survival horror video games created by the Japanese company Konami. Pyramid Head is a monstrous and enigmatic figure, usually depicted wearing a triangular helmet and carrying a large, rusty sword.
He is known for his violent and disturbing behavior, and his appearances in the games are often linked to themes of guilt, punishment, and retribution.
4. Jack of Blades
Jack of Blades is a fictitious and the main antagonist of the action role-playing game Fable, developed by Lionhead Studios. He is a mysterious and powerful creature who crawls from the void and uses his iconic mask to spread evil across the kingdom of Albion.
Jack of Blades is known for his charismatic and manipulative personality, as well as his impressive combat abilities. He is one of the most memorable villains in video game history and has become a beloved character among fans of the Fable series.
3. Ratchet
Ratchet is the star of the Ratchet & Clank video game series and is one of the most beloved video game characters ever. He is a lombax, a species of the furry creature known for its mechanical skills and adventurous spirit. In the games, Ratchet is the main protagonist and is voiced by Mikey Kelley in the first game and James Arnold Taylor in the following games.
Ratchet is a skilled mechanic and engineer, and he uses his wits and gadgets to defeat his enemies and save the universe from evil. He is brave, determined, and always ready for a challenge, making him the perfect hero for any video game adventure.
2. Dorian Pavus
Dorian Pavus is a character from BioWare's Dragon Age franchise, making his debut in the 2014 video game Dragon Age: Inquisition. He is a Tevinter mage and serves as a companion and party member in the game. Dorian is charming, witty, and full of life, making him a popular character among Dragon Age fans.
Dorian is a complex character with a rich backstory, and he brings depth and humor to the world of Dragon Age: Inquisition. He is a talented mage and a valuable asset in battle, but he is also a flawed individual with a troubled past. His character arc is one of the game's highlights, and players are sure to enjoy their time spent with Dorian.
1. Bella Goth
Bella Goth has been a mystery in the world of The Sims since the very beginning. She was once the wife of Mortimer Goth, living a normal life in the town of Pleasantview. But her life took a strange turn, and she disappeared without a trace. Her disappearance has been a central plot point in The Sims 2, and her story has continued to captivate players for years.
Bella Goth is a mysterious and intriguing figure, and her story is full of twists and turns. She is a central part of the lore of The Sims, and her tale will keep players engaged for years to come. Whether she is a tragic figure or a hero, Bella Goth will always be a beloved part of the world of The Sims.
Final Words
This comprehensive exploration of the most popular video game characters of all time has delved into the fascinating journeys of 70 iconic figures that have captured the hearts and minds of gamers worldwide. These beloved characters, each with their unique storylines, have transcended generations and have become an integral part of popular culture.
Throughout this article, we discussed how these memorable protagonists have contributed to the dynamic world of video games, providing not only entertainment but also inspiring creativity, fostering social connections, and sparking friendly competition among players.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, these legendary characters will undoubtedly remain etched in the collective memory of gamers, further solidifying their status as timeless symbols of our shared digital heritage.