Video games offer a unique form of storytelling, letting players step into the shoes of unforgettable characters. Whether it's exploring vast worlds in Baldur's Gate 3 or battling foes in World of Warcraft, the characters we control are just as crucial as the gameplay itself. They define our experience, making us laugh, cry, and cheer. That's why we've ranked the 20 best video game characters of all time, considering their iconic status, popularity, writing, memorability, design, influence, and the quality of their games.
20. Chun-Li
While Ryu may be the face of Street Fighter, Chun-Li is the heart. As the first playable female character in the franchise, she broke barriers and became a fighting game legend. Known for her powerful thunder thighs, Chun-Li's quest for revenge against M. Bison made her a standout in a roster full of memorable fighters. Her design, personality, and move set have kept her relevant for decades, cementing her as one of the most iconic characters in gaming history.
19. Donkey Kong
Donkey Kong started as a barrel-throwing villain in the original arcade classic, but he evolved into a beloved hero and star of his own franchise. From the critically acclaimed Donkey Kong Country series to the upcoming Donkey Kong Bananza, this character has left an indelible mark on platform gaming. His 2D games are masterpieces of level design, and his 3D outings pushed boundaries. Donkey Kong is a true pioneer, one of the earliest characters to capture gamers' hearts.
18. Ellie Williams
Ellie Williams from The Last of Us is a testament to how video game characters can rival those in film and TV. As a young girl whose blood may hold the key to a zombie apocalypse, Ellie's journey is one of survival, loss, and revenge. While some may argue she's not as established as other icons, her writing is among the best in gaming. Her tragic story carries the emotional weight of both games, making her a deeply memorable protagonist.
17. Red
No list of gaming greats would be complete without a nod to Pokémon. While Pikachu and Charizard are more famous from the anime, Red is the ultimate video game trainer. As the silent protagonist of the first generation, he represents the player's journey through Kanto. But his true legend comes from appearing as the final boss in Pokémon Gold and Silver, a moment that stunned players. Red is a blank slate, yet he remains the most iconic trainer in the franchise.
16. Solid Snake
Hideo Kojima's Metal Gear Solid series gave us Solid Snake, a special operative who redefined stealth gaming. Snake is more than just a badass; he's a philosophical subversion of the macho hero archetype. From hiding in cardboard boxes to delivering memorable monologues, Snake is a pop culture icon. His influence on stealth games is immeasurable, and his legacy continues to inspire new titles.
15. Samus Aran
Samus Aran from Metroid is a pioneer in gaming. As an intergalactic bounty hunter, she explores alien worlds and battles space pirates. Her iconic suit hides a surprising reveal: she's a woman, making her one of the first major female protagonists in video games. With recent hits like Metroid Dread, Samus remains a symbol of strength and exploration, inspiring countless players.
14. Scorpion
From Mortal Kombat, Scorpion is the face of the franchise. His catchphrase, "Get over here!" is instantly recognizable. As a vengeful specter, Scorpion's design and moves have made him a fighting game staple. He represents the brutal, over-the-top style that Mortal Kombat is known for, and his popularity has endured for decades.
These characters are just the beginning. From Lara Croft to Mario, the list continues with more legends who have shaped gaming history. For more rankings, check out our list of The Best Thriller Video Games of All Time, Ranked or explore The 10 Greatest Animated Movie Musicals Ever.
