The Greatest RPG Characters of All Time
In the world of video games, character role playing game characters - RPGs - have evolved into an art form. These characters often have intricate backstories, complex personalities, and dynamic journeys that leave a mark on players' hearts. The greatest RPG characters of all time exhibit a combination of depth and charisma that allow them to encapsulate the essence of the immersive stories they inhabit. It's not just about quests or battles, but about the emotional and intellectual connection forged between the player and the character.
The best RPG characters are not merely avatars. Rather, they embody human experiences, struggles, and triumphs. From the stern yet compassionate Geralt of Rivia to the enigmatic Cloud Strife, these roles offer more than just gameplay mechanics; they offer narratives that resonate on multiple levels. These characters often find themselves in worlds steeped in moral ambiguity, pushing players to think deeply about the choices they make. This blend of storytelling and character development sets the stage for some memorable experiences.
Take Cloud Strife, for example, whose journey in Final Fantasy VII is a testament to the emotional depth possible in a character from the RPG genre. His transformation from a disillusioned mercenary to a symbol of hope is both compelling and poignant. Geralt of Rivia, the monster-slaying protagonist of The Witcher series, challenges players with morally ambiguous decisions and a nuanced personality. Link, the courageous hero from The Legend of Zelda, takes players on epic quests that test not just skill, but determination and wit. These figures are just a few of the best role playing game characters.
There is something engaging about these character RPGs that elevate them from gaming icons to legends. They are more than just digital avatars; they are heroes, anti-heroes, and sometimes even villains in whom players invest time and emotion. Their tales of bravery, sacrifice, and growth highlight the power of role playing games to weave stories that are nuanced and impactful. These best role playing game characters continue to inspire and captivate new generations of gamers
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Cloud Strife, the protagonist of Final Fantasy VII, is known for his spiky blonde hair, oversized Buster Sword, and his moody disposition. Cloud's journey from mercenary to hero, fueled by his troubled past and his desire to save the world from the malevolent Shinra Corporation, is as moving as it is epic. His character encapsulates the struggle between the personal and the universal, making him an unforgettable figure in gaming.
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Geralt of Rivia, from the Witcher series, is a professional monster slayer, known as a Witcher, with enhanced abilities and a moral compass that often finds itself in grey areas. Geralt's character is nuanced and complex; he's capable of great violence yet shows profound empathy towards those he encounters in his journey. His stoic personality, compelling backstory, and the decisions he makes based on player choices contribute to his appeal.
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Link, the green-clothed hero from The Legend of Zelda series, embarks on epic quests to save the kingdom of Hyrule. Link's courage, skill, and unwavering dedication to his mission are admirable traits that have endeared him to players worldwide. His silent protagonist status allows players to project themselves onto him, enhancing the immersive experience of his adventures.
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Sephiroth, the primary antagonist of Final Fantasy VII, stands out as one of the most iconic villains in the gaming world. With his long silver hair, exceptional swordsmanship, and grand ambitions, Sephiroth's complex character arc and relationship with Cloud contribute significantly to the game's narrative. His descent into madness and his ruthless pursuit of power provide a captivating conflict in the game.
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Crono, from the time-traveling RPG Chrono Trigger, is the silent protagonist whose courage sets the course of the entire adventure. Known for his distinct red spiky hair and katana, Crono is defined by his actions, which are determined by the player. His character is a testament to bravery, friendship, and the unwavering resolve to correct the course of history.
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Commander Shepard from the Mass Effect series is a highly skilled soldier and the protagonist whose actions and decisions directly influence the fate of the galaxy. Shepard's character, which can be customized by the player, embodies heroism, leadership, and the burden of making tough decisions. Shepard's interactions with crew members and various alien races create a deeply personal and immersive gaming experience.
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Morrigan from Dragon Age is a powerful witch who navigates the world with an enticing blend of cunning and charm. Her character, known for her shapeshifting abilities, free spirit, and complex relationship with the protagonist, is one of the series' most compelling. Morrigan's enigmatic personality, coupled with her depth and character growth, makes her an unforgettable part of the Dragon Age series.
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Revan, the protagonist of Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, is a powerful force-sensitive character whose alignment and gender can be determined by the player. Revan's dynamic storyline, which involves memory loss, redemption, and the struggle between light and dark, is a compelling aspect of the game. The choices made by the player as Revan significantly affect the game's narrative and outcomes, providing a deep, immersive experience.
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Garrus Vakarian, from the Mass Effect series, is a former C-Sec officer turned vigilante who becomes one of Shepard's most trusted companions. Garrus is admired for his tactical abilities, his unwavering loyalty, and his dry sense of humor. His evolution from law enforcer to a more pragmatic and independent warrior, as well as his potential romantic relationship with Shepard, make him a deeply compelling character.
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Sora, the main character in the Kingdom Hearts series, is an optimistic and brave youth who wields a Keyblade. His journey through various Disney and Square Enix worlds in search of his friends forms the heart of the series. Sora's character, filled with kindness and a strong sense of justice, adds to the game's charm and emotional depth.
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Yuna, from Final Fantasy X and X-2, is a summoner dedicated to bringing peace to the world of Spira. Her character journey, evolving from a shy and dutiful summoner to a confident and independent woman, forms an integral part of the narrative. Yuna's kindness, determination, and the sacrifices she is willing to make resonate deeply with players.
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Frog
Chrono TriggerFrog is a knightly character from Chrono Trigger who, after a tragic event, gets transformed into a humanoid frog. Known for his chivalrous nature and loyalty, Frog's storyline of vengeance and redemption is one of the game's most engaging aspects. His character brings a distinct flavor to the game, encapsulating themes of honor, regret, and resilience.
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Kratos, the protagonist of the God of War series, is a Spartan warrior turned God of War. Known for his brute strength, aggressive demeanor, and the ashes that cover his body, Kratos' journey from rage-filled warrior to a more reflective father is one of the most compelling character arcs in gaming. His struggles with his violent past, the gods, and his relationships make for a complex and engaging character.
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Tidus, the lead character of Final Fantasy X, is a star blitzball player who gets thrust into a strange world far from his home. Tidus' character, with his sunny disposition and determination, forms a stark contrast against the solemn themes of the game. His relationship with Yuna and his personal journey towards understanding his existence contribute to the emotional resonance of the game's narrative.
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Vincent Valentine, another memorable character from Final Fantasy VII, is a former Turk with a dark and tragic past. Known for his crimson eyes, long black hair, and ability to transform into monstrous forms, Vincent's backstory and personal redemption arc add depth to the overall narrative. His cool demeanor and unique abilities make him a beloved character among fans.
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Kefka Palazzo, the antagonist of Final Fantasy VI, stands out as one of the most memorable villains in video game history. Known for his maniacal laughter and complete disregard for life, Kefka's descent into madness and his quest for godlike powers provide a chilling counterpoint to the game's heroes. His character encapsulates the chaos and destructive potential of uncontrolled power.
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Zack Fair from Final Fantasy VII is a 1st Class SOLDIER whose life and fate profoundly influence Cloud Strife. Zack's upbeat personality, sense of duty, and tragic end form an essential part of the game's backstory. His story of friendship, sacrifice, and struggle against fate is one that deeply resonates with players.
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Pikachu, the iconic mascot of the Pokémon franchise, is a lovable electric type Pokémon recognized worldwide. Known for its yellow fur, red cheeks, and lightning bolt-shaped tail, Pikachu's charming design and the bond it forms with its trainer in the games have made it a fan favorite. Pikachu's various abilities, such as Thunderbolt and Quick Attack, make it a formidable companion in Pokémon battles.
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Aerith Gainsborough, another character from Final Fantasy VII, is known for her innocence, kindness, and the tragic fate that befalls her. As a flower seller with the power to communicate with the planet, Aerith's character is an essential part of the game's narrative and emotional core. Her gentle personality and selfless acts of courage leave a lasting impression on players.
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Red is the silent protagonist from Pokémon Red and Blue. As a Pokémon trainer, Red's character is determined by the player's choices, including the selection and training of Pokémon. His ultimate goal to become the Champion of the Pokémon League encapsulates the spirit of adventure, competition, and camaraderie inherent in the Pokémon franchise.
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HK-47 from Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic is an assassin droid with a unique personality. Known for his distinctive speech patterns and his love for 'meatbag' organics, HK-47's character brings humor and a touch of the absurd to the game. His candid views on various subjects and his history, revealed through interactions with the player, make him a beloved and memorable character.
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Kain Highwind, a character from Final Fantasy IV, is a dragoon with a deep sense of honor and a complex relationship with his best friend, Cecil. Kain's struggle with his feelings of jealousy, his desire for redemption, and his loyalty to his kingdom add layers of depth to his character. His ability to leap high into the air and deliver powerful lance attacks is a highlight of the game's battle system.
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Rikku is a lively and optimistic character from Final Fantasy X and X-2. As an Al Bhed mechanic with a knack for dismantling machinery and crafting items, Rikku brings a sense of joy and resourcefulness to the game's narrative. Her upbeat personality, combined with her deep familial ties and her struggle to reconcile her people's outcast status, adds a complex layer to her character.
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Terra Branford, one of the protagonists in Final Fantasy VI, is a kind-hearted, half-human, half-esper character. As someone who wields immense magical power, Terra's struggle with her identity and purpose form a significant part of the game's story. Her journey from puppet to heroine and her gradual coming to terms with her abilities provide a depth of character that endears her to players.
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Tali'Zorah nar Rayya is a character from the Mass Effect series, known for her technical expertise and her life inside an environmental suit due to her species' weak immune system. Tali's character growth from a timid young girl on her Pilgrimage to a confident leader of her people forms a significant part of the series' narrative. Her relationship with Shepard, the player's character, provides additional depth and emotional resonance to her character arc.
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Mario, the protagonist of the Super Mario series, is a plucky plumber who embarks on various adventures to rescue Princess Peach from the villainous Bowser. Known for his red hat, blue overalls, and mustache, Mario's character is synonymous with video gaming. His ability to navigate through colorful and diverse worlds, along with his array of power-ups, make each of his adventures uniquely entertaining.
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Rydia, a character from Final Fantasy IV, is a young summoner who befriends the protagonist, Cecil, after a tragic event. Rydia's character arc, involving her growth from a scared child to a powerful summoner and her mastery over both black magic and summoning, is one of the most compelling aspects of the game. Her struggle with her fears and her unwavering loyalty to her friends add depth to her character.
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Balthier
Final Fantasy XIIBalthier from Final Fantasy XII is a charismatic sky pirate with a mysterious past. Known for his wit, charm, and a strong sense of justice, Balthier's character brings a layer of intrigue and sophistication to the game's narrative. His complex relationship with his father and his evolving partnership with Fran, a viera warrior, adds depth and nuance to his character.
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Locke Cole
Final Fantasy VILocke Cole from Final Fantasy VI is a treasure hunter with a heart of gold. Defined by his unwavering loyalty and a tragic past that drives his need to protect women, Locke's character arc is rich with emotion and development. His skills as a thief, along with his determination to help the Returners in their battle against the Empire, make him a crucial member of the game's ensemble cast.
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Arthas Menethil from Warcraft III and World of Warcraft is a prince who tragically transforms into the Lich King, one of the most formidable villains in the game's universe. Arthas' fall from grace and his transformation provide a deep, dramatic storyline that influences the world of Azeroth profoundly. His character showcases the destructive potential of pride and vengeance when coupled with immense power.
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Laguna Loire, a character in Final Fantasy VIII, is a kind-hearted soldier turned journalist and ultimately the president of a country. His story, told through dream sequences, adds depth and intrigue to the game's plot. Laguna's jovial nature, courage, and persistence in the face of adversity leave an indelible mark on players.
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Cecil Harvey, the protagonist of Final Fantasy IV, is a dark knight who embarks on a journey of redemption. Cecil's transition from a dark knight to a paladin symbolizes his internal struggle and the transformation he undergoes. His unwavering resolve to right his wrongs and protect those he loves makes him a compelling and empathetic character.
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Johnny Silverhand, also from Cyberpunk 2077, is a rockstar turned digital ghost who becomes a significant part of V's journey. Johnny's rebellious nature, desire for vengeance against Arasaka, and his complex relationship with V, form a significant part of the game's narrative. His character offers an exploration of themes like mortality, identity, and rebellion.
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Solaire of Astora, from Dark Souls, is a knight in search of his sun. Known for his friendliness and his iconic "Praise the Sun" gesture, Solaire's character brings a sense of companionship in an otherwise bleak and challenging game. His dedication to his quest and his willingness to aid the player in battles make him a memorable and beloved character.
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Minato Arisato, the protagonist of Persona 3, is a high school student who battles Shadows while managing his social life. His ability to wield multiple Personas, along with his role as the leader of the Specialized Extracurricular Execution Squad (SEES), makes him a multifaceted character. The player's choices in balancing Minato's daily life and his battles deepen the immersion and emotional engagement.
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Magus
Chrono TriggerMagus, a powerful wizard and one of the main characters in Chrono Trigger, has a complex and multifaceted storyline. Driven by revenge against Lavos for his sister's disappearance, Magus' character unfolds as both an antagonist and an ally to the player. His haunting past, intense magic abilities, and the decisions the player makes regarding his fate create a captivating narrative.
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Ellie, the co-protagonist of The Last of Us series, is a fierce survivor in a post-apocalyptic world. Known for her resourcefulness, resilience, and complex relationship with Joel, Ellie's character development is profound and impactful. Her journey, marked by loss, survival, and the search for hope, forms the emotional core of the game.
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Jack of Blades
FableJack of Blades, from Fable, is an enigmatic and powerful villain. His mystique is enhanced by his mask, which is said to grant eternal life. Jack's ruthless ambition to control Albion and his clash with the game's hero create a captivating narrative filled with suspense and confrontation.
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Amaterasu, the protagonist of Okami, is a sun goddess in the form of a white wolf. Known for her celestial brush powers and her role in restoring beauty to the land, Amaterasu's character brings a unique blend of mythology and adventure to the game. Her interactions with various characters and her journey to defeat darkness encapsulate an engaging narrative.
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Miranda Lawson, from the Mass Effect series, is a biotic and a high-ranking operative of the pro-human organization, Cerberus. Miranda's character, marked by her struggle with her genetically-engineered perfection and her complex relationship with her sister, provides depth to the game's narrative. Her role in the game, both as a potential romantic partner for Commander Shepard and as an integral part of the mission, adds to the immersive experience.
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KOS-MOS from the Xenosaga series is an android with human-like appearance and extraordinary combat abilities. Known for her calm demeanor and iconic blue hair, KOS-MOS's character presents an intriguing exploration of artificial intelligence. Her evolution over the series, coupled with her role in the battle against Gnosis, makes her a significant character in the game's universe.
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Mio, a character in the game Harvest Moon: The Tale of Two Towns, is an industrious young woman who helps players in their farming endeavors. Known for her friendly disposition, Mio's character adds a warm and inviting presence in the game. Her expertise in farming and her willingness to share useful tips make her an invaluable character in the player's journey.
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Ness from EarthBound is a young boy with psychic powers who embarks on a journey to save the world from an alien invasion. Ness's character, marked by his bravery, kindness, and the challenges he overcomes, provides an engaging and relatable narrative. His ability to use PSI powers in combat and his interactions with a host of quirky characters make his adventure a memorable experience.
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Yuri Lowell
Tales of VesperiaYuri Lowell, the protagonist of , is a former knight turned vigilante who stands up for the common people. Yuri's sense of justice, combined with his sarcastic wit and fearless fighting skills, make him a compelling character. His journey, marked by friendships, conflicts, and personal growth, forms the emotional core of the game.
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Nia
Xenoblade Chronicles 2Nia is a fictional character from Xenoblade Chronicles series created by Monolith Soft and is voiced by Catrin-Mai Huw in English and by Hitomi Owada in Japanese. Serving as one of the main playable characters in Xenoblade Chronicles 2, she comes from the Imperial Province of Gormott and decides to follow Rex on his journey after defecting from Torna. - 47
Jackie Welles
Cyberpunk 2077Jackie Welles, another character from Cyberpunk 2077, is V's close friend and partner in crime. Jackie's character, marked by his upbeat personality, loyal nature, and his dream of making it big, adds a personal and emotional dimension to the game. His involvement in the game's heists and his relationship with V make him a memorable character.
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Noah from The Last of Us Part II is a young survivor in a post-apocalyptic world. Noah's resilience and courage in the face of adversity make him a compelling character. His journey of survival and his interactions with other characters add to the game's complex and emotionally charged narrative.
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Panam Palmer
Cyberpunk 2077Panam Palmer, a character in Cyberpunk 2077, is a nomad and a skilled driver. Panam's strong will, loyalty to her friends, and her complex relationship with the player's character, V, provide depth to her character. Her role in some of the game's crucial missions and the possible romantic storyline with her adds to the game's immersive narrative.
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Zeke von Genbu
Xenoblade Chronicles 2Zeke von Genbu is a fictional character from Xenoblade Chronicles series created by Monolith Soft and is voiced by Daniel Barker in English and by Kenjiro Tsuda in Japanese. Serving as a main playable character in Xenoblade Chronicles 2, he is a renowned Driver who is often said to be the most powerful of the Kingdom of Tantal. - 51
Vaan
Final Fantasy XIIVaan is a fictional character in the Final Fantasy series from Square Enix. Created by Yasumi Matsuno and designed by Akihiko Yoshida, he first appeared in Itadaki Street Special and then appeared in Final Fantasy XII as the main protagonist. Final Fantasy XII establishes Vaan as an orphaned teenager from Rabanastre who dreams of becoming a sky pirate. He and his best friend Penelo join Dalmasca Princess Ashe in her fight against the tyranny of the Archadian Empire. Vaan also takes a more active role in the sequel Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings and has also been featured in few Final Fantasy crossover games. Vaan was conceptualized as the main character for Final Fantasy XII in order to contrast the older hero from Square's previous title Vagrant Story as a result of negative feedback received by fans. Critical reception to Vaan's character has been mixed as a result of his lack of involvement with the Final Fantasy XII 's plot although various video game publications still found him likable. - 52Aloy is a fictional video game character from the Horizon series and is voiced by Ashly Burch. Serving as the protagonist of the 2017 video game Horizon Zero Dawn and its sequel Horizon Forbidden West, she was raised as an outcast, and trains as a warrior and machine hunter in order to win a ritual competition to discover her mother's identity.
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Vyse
Skies of ArcadiaVyse from Skies of Arcadia is an optimistic sky pirate with dreams of adventure. Vyse's unwavering spirit, his determination to fight against the Valuan Empire, and his quest to find the legendary land of Arcadia form the game's exciting narrative. His character, defined by his ability to inspire others and his dynamic combat skills, makes him an engaging protagonist.
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Rex
Xenoblade Chronicles 2Rex is a fictional character from Xenoblade Chronicles series created by Masatsugu Saito and is voiced by Al Weaver in English and by Hiro Shimono in Japanese. Serving as the main protagonist in Xenoblade Chronicles 2, Rex is a 15-year-old salvager from Letheria who becomes the Driver of a Blade named Pyra and harness her power in battle. - 55
Steven Hackett
Mass Effect, Mass Effect 2, Mass Effect 3Steven Hackett is a fictional video game character created by BioWare and voiced by Lance Henriksen. He is a non-playable character in the Mass Effect franchise known as the Alliance Admiral. A top-ranking official in the Alliance Navy, Steven Hackett looks to save and protect humanity, no matter where it is needed throughout the galaxy. - 56
Canderous Ordo
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic - 57
Rei
Breath of Fire III - 58
Lao Huang
Xenoblade Chronicles XLao Huang is a fictional character from Xenoblade Chronicles series created by Monolith Soft and is voiced by Matthew Mercer in English and by Keiji Fujiwara in Japanese. Serving as one of the main playable characters in Xenoblade Chronicles X, he is the leader of the Pathfinder Team Belisarda of the private military organization BLADE. - 59
Cecil Vyse
Skies of ArcadiaCecil Vyse is a fictional character from A Room with a View. - 60
Adol Christin
Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished - 61
Nakmor Drack
Mass Effect: AndromedaNakmor Drack is a fictional video game character created by BioWare and voiced by Stanley Townsend. He is a non-playable character in the Mass Effect franchise known as the Veteran Warrior. Spending the past 1,400 years causing havoc on the galaxy, Nakmor Drack is one of the oldest living Krogan's who still lives the life of a mercenary. - 62
Erend Vanguardsman
Horizon Zero Dawn, Horizon Forbidden WestErend Vanguardsman is a fictional character from the Horizon video game series voiced by John Hopkins. Erend Vanguardsman is a Freebooter and Captain of the Vanguard for the Oseram tribe who is a major ally to series protagonist Aloy on all of her adventures. Vanguardsman is a man who seems to wear his emotions on his sleeve, bold, crass and overly proud of his people, however, on the inside, he struggles with depression and self-loathing. - 63Varl is a fictional character from the Horizon video game series voiced by John MacMillan. A Brave member of the Nora Tribe, Varl is the son of War-Chief Sona who formed a special bond with Aloy after his sister was killed in the Proving massacre. An incredibly patient and emotionally strong man, Varl helps those whom he cares about with any and all of their problems, and always keeps a level head about him, even in the darkest of moments.
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Megaman Juno
Megaman Legends - 65
Kotallo
Horizon Forbidden WestKotallo is a fictional character from the Horizon video game series voiced by Noshir Dalal. The Marshal and Warrior for the Tenakth Tribe, Kotallo is a standoffish man who uses his time to better his abilities as a warrior and his energy to complete his duties. While he may try to put forward a gruff exterior, those who truly know him know he is a very peaceful man with an incredibly dry sense of humor. - 66
Talanah Khane Padish
Horizon Zero Dawn, Horizon Forbidden WestTalanah Khane Padish is a fictional character from the Horizon video game series voiced by Freya Parker. A Hunter for the Carja Tribe and the Sunhawk of the Carja Hunters Lodge, Talanah Khane Padish is a potential ally for Alloy in the Horizon series. A proud descendent of Carja noble Hunters, Padish uses her background to keep a calm, but incredibly friendly demeanor to all those she meets. While she may be kind and friendly, there is no doubt she is one of the best hunters in the world, and her strong sense of right and wrong help her become the ultimate warrior. - 67
Alec Ryder
Mass Effect: AndromedaAlec Ryder is a fictional video game character created by BioWare and voiced by Clancy Brown. He is a non-playable character in the Mass Effect franchise. One of the first interdimensional travelers, Alec Ryder was a member of Jon Grissom's original task force to travel through the Charon mass relay. Ryder still continues his mission, as he hopes to find a new home for humanity in an unknown galaxy. - 68
Remeer
Brain Lord (SNES) - 69
Zo
Horizon Forbidden WestZo is a fictional character from the Horizon video game series voiced by Erica Luttrell. A Gravesinger for the Utaru Tribe, Zo is a passionate and strong-spirited fighter who would rather die achieving a greater good than simply accepting the fate she has. A traditionalist by nature, Zo attempts to be one with nature and cherishes the land she lives on. - 70
Uthid
Horizon Zero Dawn, Horizon Forbidden WestUthid is a fictional character from the Horizon video game series voiced by Nigel Barber. A military Advisor for the Carja Tribe, Uthid is an incredibly honorable military veteran who cares for the weak and will protect those in need no matter the cost. Uthid can also become a potential ally for Alloy throughout Horizon Zero Dawn. - 71
Vanasha
Horizon Zero Dawn, Horizon Forbidden WestVanasha is a fictional character from the Horizon video game series voiced by Lara Rossi. A Handmaiden to Queen Nasadi for the Carja Tribe, Vanasha is a potential ally in Horizon Zero Dawn and a recurring character in Horizon Forbidden West. A strong and kind woman, Vanasha served as a spy for Nasadi and worked with Alloy to take down the Shadow Carja, and while she may work for nobility now, she never forgets where she came from, always lending a helping hand to the poor and downtrodden. - 72Beta is a fictional character from the Horizon video game series voiced by Ashly Burch. A member of the Old Ones and the Alpha Prime of Project Zero Dawn, Beta is a clone of Tilda van der Meer's former love Dr. Elisabet Sobeck. Beta is an incredibly intelligent individual, however, the trauma of her past forces her to have intense anxiety and crippling fear.
