Video game characters are fun, aren’t they? They make or break the gaming experience. You can have the most satisfying gameplay and the most compelling narrative, but if your main character’s bland, yikes! With that outta the way, let’s talk about today’s list. We got to thinking about how the protagonists, or even the central antagonist characters, make video games so compelling.
We’re not discussing games today. No, today’s list is all about gushing over our favorite video game characters. We’re super pumped and charged up for today. So let’s get going, and since we wanna try to include all the fan favorites, it’s a 25-er list.
Which Video Game Characters Are the Greatest Of All Time?
One thing, before we kick off this party. We’re going for one character per franchise. So, we don’t wanna hear about how this and that character’s missing. It’s literally impossible to cram every single of our favorites on today’s list, let alone everyone else’s. So, if yours don’t make it, well, tough. Anyway, let’s not wait around a second longer and begin our list! Here we go!
25. Sephiroth – The Most Iconic Villain in Final Fantasy History, is Also A Huge Fan Favorite
We’re kicking off our list of awesome video game characters with a bad guy, Sephiroth, from Final Fantasy 7. He’s one of the most terrifying villains in gaming history, let alone the Final Fantasy series.
Sephiroth commands fear and lurks around the protagonist of Final Fantast 7 Cloud Strife like a shark. His power is fierce and can cause destruction on a catastrophic scale. He’s not just a brute, though, because Sephiroth is cunning; that’s what makes him such a dangerous foe.
If you’ve never played Final Fantasy 7, either the original or Remake, you need to fix that. Check out our top PS4 JRPGS for more recommendations with memorable video game characters like Sephiroth.
24. Geral Of Rivia – The White Wolf’s A Certified Badass and Has All the Luck With the Ladies
Next up, we’ve got Geralt Of Rivia, the white wolf who slays hostile creatures for a living. During the course of the three Witcher games, players get to see Geralt’s journey. There’s a strong connection between the audience and Geralt Of Rivia. He’s one of those video game characters that players aspire to be like.
The Witcher is a good man at heart and tries to abide by his contract unless his employers double-cross him, then all bets are off. Geralt of Rivia won’t hesitate to spill blood or be selfish. He’s got sword mastery, hunting skills, mutagen and potions, and sorcery at his command. Kind of a complete package if you think about it.
Also, the man’s got serious game with the ladies. Depending on the player’s choices, Geralt Of Rivia can really score like in our favorite dating sim games. What more can you ask for, really?
23. Doomguy – The Classic Slayer Of Demons is A One Man Army
Oh yea! This next one is gonna be great. So our list continues with Doomguy, one of the most absolutely intimidating video game characters ever. Why do we say that? Well, let’s see here, he’s a man on a suicide mission and yet still around and kicking.
What’s the mission Doomguy’s on, you ask? Why, to kill any and all demons that he encounters, of course. Doomguy’s skillsets and arsenal, combined with the traversal and non-stop frantic momentum combat, make him unstoppable.
It’s the high-octane energy and the urge to slaughter all the hostile demons in your path that make Doomguy one of the most fan-favorite video game characters. If you’re a fan of FPS games, you owe it to yourself to play games where Doomguy kicks demonic tail.
22. Mario – Nintendo’s Mascot is One of the Most Famous Video Game Characters Ever
For the next entry on our list of excellent video game characters, we have Nintendo’s company mascot, Mario. There is nothing left to say about this character other than, if you’ve never played a Mario game before, fix that asap! You can even check out some more suggestions in our list of top Nintendo Switch games.
Mario’s personality is that of a helpful and kind person. He’s always out there fixing leaks during his day job as a plumber, but when the going gets tough and Princess Peach needs rescuing, that’s when Mario pulls double duty.
Mario possesses a whole host of powers, including shooting fireballs, growing in size, super jumps, flight, invulnerability, and sever others. In fact, it’s kind of scary the powers he has; imagine if such video game characters ever had a bad day. Oh, the horror.
21. Big Boss – The CQC Master is One of the Most Compelling Video Game Characters
Big Boss is up next as one of the most popular, and rightfully so, video game characters ever. This guy is synonymous with there’s a discussion of the best stealth games. The soldier is a master of special ops of a delicate nature that require discreet tactics.
Mr. Hideo Kojima gave us one of the most brilliantly compelling character arcs with Big Boss. Metal Gear Solid’s entire timeline takes us on a journey of emotional highs and lows. In retrospect, Big Boss is truly a genius who revels in combat and warfare.
Big Boss forms an entire private army, complete with the mother base. He sends recruits to carry out the missions, and his legacy lives on through his clones, one of them being Solid Snake. Big Boss is a master of his craft, and we love his story even more with hindsight.
20. Mega Man – The Poster Boy for Platformers Ranks Highly Among Video Game Characters
Mega Man is one of Capcom’s mascots, and he’s also affectionately known as ‘the blue bomber.’ He is the poster boy for platforming games with his traditional 2D format.
Whether he’s sliding back and forth, leaping over obstacles, or shooting his mega blaster at enemies and bosses, Mega Man is a busy guy. The character is never far behind to put a stop to evil forces. Mega Man is also popular for taking on the abilities and upgrades from defeated foes to add to his arsenal.
We’ve got a soft spot for Mega Man’s charming 2D-era throwback vibe. Mega Man’s persona is anime-esque cheesy and courageous, but we still love him as one of the most endearing video game characters.
19. Alucard – The Son Of Dracula Eclipses Castlevania’s Most Complex Video Game Characters
When it comes to Castlevania games, Alucard stands apart as the clear fan-favorite supernatural character. Having a cold and icy appearance but a regal posture with a charming accent, the son of Dracula still holds sway over the fanbase.
Alucard is a heroic figure, fighting those who kill humanity, even going so far as to fight his own father. He does so in honor of his human mother, whom he deeply loved when she was alive. He has several powers and skills that make him a formidable powerhouse, with physical strength, and magical spells, including the ability to transform.
Castlevania is full of tragedy, but to be able to still be selfless and heroic after going through so much is what makes Alucard one of the most likable video game characters ever.
18. Sonic – The Blue Blur is One of the Most Awesome Video Game Characters Ever
Oh, look at that another one of the most iconic video game characters ever, the blue blur himself, Sonic. Yep, Sonic the Hedgehog is a wonderful anthropomorphic fuzzball of energy, charm, and sass.
Always willing to race others; he’s super fast, blazing past most opponents without breaking a sweat. Sonic switches back and forth between a bundle of energy and his laid-back persona when he’s bored. However, that doesn’t stop Sonic from being heroic.
Sonic also can use his speed in creative ways to really put the hurt on his enemies, and he also has other powers too. Oh, and if you’re wondering, Sonic was Sega’s poster boy for their home consoles like the Sega Saturn.
17. Lara Croft
When it comes to female video game characters, none are as memorable as Lara Croft. The spirit of adventure and exploration that Lara Croft has goes beyond the ordinary. She is tough as nails and thinks on her feet, but her heart is always in the right place.
Lara Croft‘s a seasoned veteran throughout the course of her journey, mastering survival skills and predatory tactics to outwit and outlast her enemies.
While we prefer the OG Lara Croft to the reboot because the former was much more charming, and not to mention, overall more fun, we have respect for the newer iteration as well. Though we’re still waiting for a modern rendition of Lara Croft’s classic looks, like the skins in Fortnite.
16. Ezio Auditore Da Firenze
Assassin’s Creed II is the perfect game in the series. It’s got an enigmatic main character, Ezio Auditore Da Firenze, who happens to be the best character in the franchise. Also, the music for Ezio Auditore Da Firenze is now synonymous with the entire Assassin’s Creed brand.
This goes to show how the character of Ezio Auditore Da Firenze was a lighting-in-a-bottle scenario. Ubisoft still hasn’t managed to repeat this level of success. Anyway, Ezio Auditore Da Firenze has a charming persona, sweet-talking and young, and has a way with the ladies.
Ezio Auditore Da Firenze also is a master assassin, possessing dual hidden blades and a plethora of skills to blend in and strike his enemies. He can silently take out his enemies, and then use the environments for some amazing parkour action, which makes him one of the best video game characters ever.
15. Commander Shepard
Commander Shepard, whether male or female, is one of gaming’s most cherished video game characters. Bioware’s creative heads put out a spectacle with games like Mass Effect.
Commander Shepard might be a soldier in the beginning, but his journey, and the companions they recruit along the way make for a memorable and epic saga. There’s depth to the relationships and friendships of Commander Shepard.
Also, you get to kick alien butt and fight for humanity’s survival against impossible odds. Commander Shepard is one of the most bonafide awesome video game characters ever. We will say this, though, his dancing skills need some serious work.
14. Spiderman
Spiderman games are always super fun, right? Right now, in the PS4-PS5 era, Spiderman is experiencing his best video game period to date.
From web-swinging, wall-running, leaping, and somersaulting in mid-air, Spiderman’s movement is our dream mode of traversal. Beats traffic, too, if you think about it. The thrill of engaging in combat with his colorful rogue’s gallery is a high unlike any other.
The courageous and quippy persona of Spiderman makes him one of the most fan-favorite video game characters ever.
13. Link
The Legend Of Zelda franchise’s Link is one of the greatest video game characters ever. Link may be silent in all of the games, but he personifies the adage, actions speak louder than words.
There’s plenty of action for Link, too, with perilous dungeons and puzzles to solve, and a variety of enemies to slay. The magical feeling of embarking on a fantasy quest is what Link embodies.
Link’s selfless devotion to the cause is his brilliant trait and makes him one of the greatest heroic video game characters ever.
12. Albert Wesker
A game’s only as great as the villain. When it comes to Resident Evil, Albert Wesker easily surpasses all other video game characters in the series. He’s a conspirator, a manipulator, and a menacing presence.
Players will find that Albert Wesker will appear and cause more trouble for them. Albert Wesker’s conniving nature might seem like he’s not much of a fighter, but trust us; he’s a brute.
Albert Wesker’s fighting prowess is amazing, and when coupled with his ability to move around rapidly, he’s one of the most dangerous video game characters ever..
11. Batman
The Arkham series has cemented Batman at the apex of the greatest superhero video game characters ever. Batman’s fighting style, his detective skills, and the adversity he overcomes makes him truly special.
Batman’s voice performance by Kevin Conroy will forever be his most iconic one. We can’t get enough of him. Batman has a never say die attitude that makes him such a relatable video game character.
He’s always looking to save everyone and never crosses the line into villainy, no matter how much temptation there is. Batman‘s never-give-up attitude is what puts him above the best superhero video game character of all time.
10. Sub Zero
If you’re looking for mature games to play, Mortal Kombat is your best bet. The fighter known as Sub Zero Mortal Kombat’s most iconic video game character. Sub Zero has ice elemental powers, and his offensive and defensive utility using these are creative and bloody.
After taking over the mantel of Sub Zero from his brother, Kuai Lang makes his clan of assassins, the Lin Kuei, walk the honorable path. He also begins to right the wrongs of his brother Bi Han, who was the original Sub Zero.
Aside from looking cool and deadly, Sub Zero also has a fierce rivalry which later turns into a friendship with Scorpion. Their pairing was a long time coming, and honestly, it makes Sub Zero one of the most fierce yet appreciable characters in video games.
9. Master Chief – The Central Figure of the Xbox Brand is One of the Most Brilliant Video Game Characters
Next up, we’ve got Master Chief, an absolute frontrunner for the most courageous video game characters ever. The super soldier is equipped with an arsenal to combat alien forces that are hellbent on destroying humanity.
The Master Chief is calculating and headstrong, never late to rush into battle, but always picks his moments to bring the right to the enemy forces. He’s also got quips for days.
The Master Chief also has Cortana, a sentient A.I., to guide him. The bond between Cortana and Master Chief over the course of the Halo titles makes them one of the best ships of video game characters ever.
8. Samus Aran
Nintendo’s iconic female gaming heroine is one of the greatest video game characters of all time. Samus Aran from Metroid always excels at surviving against impossible odds.
Samus Aran faces challenging foes that keep her on her toes, and she has to navigate trecherous environments. The puzzles she solves in the games require a fair bit of logical reasoning and loads of backtracking, which shows Samus Aran’s keen mind in action.
Samus Aran’s power blaster and suit are equally as iconic as she is and add to her legacy as one of those video game characters who always captivate players. Primary Samus Aran is in 2D-style side-scrolling games.
7. Akuma
Street Fighter’s resident badass is none other than the king of iron fist himself, Akuma. You know, video game characters are super over with the masses when there’s a special reveal for them, and Akuma is special every time.
Akuma is terrifying and powerful, never satisfied with himself, and always looking to challenge strong opponents. Akuma’s attacks are unstoppable, and they deal serious damage to his enemies.
Also, Akuma has a heroic side to him as well. He’s very territorial if someone else steps on his turf or homeland and country. Going medieval on those who dare disrespect martial arts.
6. Dante
Next up, we’ve got Dante, Son Of Sparda, and this guy just oozes coolness. We’ve got nothing but love for this amazing video game character.
Dante has an over-the-top fighting style, using his sword Rebellion and twin handguns, Ebony and Ivory. Dante also has several powers, and other devil arms that keep the combat spicy, and the fun just never stops with this guy.
What’s great about Dante as one the best video game characters ever is that he always keeps his cool. If he ever lost it, he’d be just like his brother Virgil.
5. Ryu Hayabusa
Ryu Hayabusa personifies the honorable Ninja code and is the master shinobi you always want on your side. May Heaven help Ryu Hayabusa’s enemies, as he will slaughter them all and do it with brutality.
Ryu Hayabusa has a knack for dismembering his enemies, probably because most of his adversaries are demons, cyborgs, and undead ninjas. His movement is graceful and stylish.
Ryu Hayabusa also happens to have ninjutsu on top of his overpowered physical strength and stamina. Yeah, you’re probably better off quitting if you’re facing this guy; he’s one of the fiercest video game characters of all time.
4. Bayonetta
Style, grace, a beautiful form, deadly spells, and action combat with tantalizing gestures are the dominant traits of Bayonetta. She is unquestionably one of the most darling and daring video game characters of all time.
Not really all that much to say, other than, if you like action-heavy titles with quirky characters, you need to play the Bayonetta video games.
Bayonetta has the confidence and aura that’ll immediately command your attention, and you won’t regret a second of that.
3. Kratos
The God Of War, Kratos, is a certified badass. He’s one of the most intimidating and powerful video game characters ever.
Kratos carries the burden of slaughtering the pantheon of Greek mythology and now resides as a father of a young boy. However, fate has other plans for him, and now the Norse legends are in for a beatdown when they come after him.
Kratos has evolved a lot from the days when he was bloodthirsty and lusted for combat. However, make no mistake, Kratos is still the God Of War, and won’t hesitate to get his hands bloody if he has to.
2. Kain – The Scion Of Balance is Our Runner-Up Favorite Video Game Character
For the runner-up position, we’re going with one of the most famous vampire characters in the video games, Kain, from the Legacy Of Kain series. Mr. Simon Templeman brilliantly voices Kain and shows off the layers of complexity to Kain’s motivations and his true intentions.
Kain sees the bigger picture and a threat that the rest of Nosgoth is unaware of. Kain does a magnificent job of keeping up appearances to hide his purpose from the players. The vampire leader is powerful and scheming, but ultimately one of the most compelling video game characters.
Kain inflicts torment upon his most devout lieutenant, Raziel. However, in the grand scheme of things, it was a necessary evil, and when things come full circle, Kain shows remorse making his character feel truly special. We love Kain, to death…. ironic, and kind of funny, seeing as that leads to our top pick.
1. Death – The Pale Horseman is The Best Video Game Character of the Past Two Decades
We’re closing off our list of top-tier video game characters with none other than leader of the horsem*n of the apocalypse, Death. This guy is as awesome as they get as far as video game protagonists go, and we love everything about him.
Leaving his duties to the Charred Council, Death goes on a quest to absolve his brother, War, who’s been accused of triggering the apocalypse prematurely. Death’s journey is selfless, and along the way, he faces opposition that he kills or dismisses indiscriminately with witty sarcasm. Death’s not just the reaper of souls; rather, he’s charming, clever, and has a lot of sass.
Death may act cold, but he cares in his own way, and players see this side of him as he helps out the Makers and other NPCs that he encounters. However, those that betray him, suffer his wrath, and boy is it a sight worth seeing. This trait of Death makes him eclipse the competition of the best video game characters of all time.
Final Thoughts About the Best Video Game Characters Ever
Wow, that was tougher than we thought. Thankfully the list of the greatest video game characters of all time is over! Now we can stop walking around eggshells and see the fireworks from the video game fandoms. So, do we dare ask you all about today’s list? Nah, we’re totally kidding; of course, we wanna know! So, please, rant, rage, and fire away in the comments below!
Oh, and while you’re at it, please mention your own favorite video game characters that didn’t make it. We’re happy to discuss all things gaming with our readers. Also, if you wanna have another dose of character-ranking opinions, don’t you worry; we’ve got just the thing. We’ve ranked the best 3-star characters in Marvel Puzzle Quest; check it out. Well, that’s all for today. Enjoy the weekend and happy gaming!
