Top 10 Best Video Game Characters Of The Century So Far

“Portal” franchise (2007-)


Players complete various tasks in the “Portal” series at the direction of the Genetic Lifeform and Disk Operating System, or GLaDOS. Her running commentary pervades the series, and her villainous nature is gradually exposed over the course of the first game. GLaDOS is far from the first A.I. antagonist, yet her passive aggressive attitude, witty barbs, and iconic voice have cemented her as one of the most recognizable artificial intelligence characters in any medium. Plus, she’s got one incredible singing voice. Her promises of cake may be a lie, but our abiding love for GLaDOS is the absolute truth.

“Grand Theft Auto V” (2013)

There is often a disconnect between the characters of “Grand Theft Auto” and how players play the games. However, Trevor is basically the id of every “GTA” player distilled into one hilariously unhinged murder gremlin. Trevor is an unapologetically selfish criminal, who does basically whatever pops into his head, with only the thinnest of loyalties to the people around him. He somehow manages to get into some of the funniest and outlandish situations and conversations in the series. We’re not saying we empathize with the man, but it’s hard not to find Trevor’s sheer chaotic energy entertaining.

“Bayonetta” franchise (2009-)

There are many highly sexualized video game characters, but unlike most of them, Bayonetta isn’t just sexy for the sake of it. Sure, she’s a highly sexual person, but that’s not the only reason she’s become so popular. Bayonetta isn’t just bae - she’s also a badass. The Umbra Witch is strong, confident, and has some absolutely wild abilities. From her pistol pumps to her many hair-related powers, Bayonetta is every bit as flamboyant, cool, and over-the-top as her series. Whether you find her empowering or just powerful, Bayonetta is among gaming’s finest female characters of this century.

“Far Cry” franchise (2004-)

Arguably one of the greatest video game villains period, Vaas Montenegro is electric whenever he’s on screen. Portrayed by the always incredible Michael Mando, Vaas is a deranged pirate and kidnapper. Vaas is utterly unpredictable. One minute he’ll be in the middle of a calm, collected monologue and then he’ll lose his entire chill, beginning an angry tirade. Although he seemingly meets his end during “Far Cry 3,” Vaas is immortal in the minds of gamers everywhere. But then…who’s that guy in “Far Cry 6”…Thanks to this character, we’ll always know the definition of insanity - Vaas himself. Also, the whole “doing the same thing over and over” thing.

“Mass Effect” franchise (2007-)

In other games, a customizable protagonist might not have become as memorable as Commander Shepard. But the “Mass Effect” games are different. The decisions and character designs of each player’s Shepard can be carried over between games in the series, which gives Shepard a staying power that other creatable characters lack. Even the default designs of Commander Shepard are instantly recognizable. But whether players chose male or female Shepard, or played Paragon or Renegade, Commander Shepard remains a complex and interesting protagonist. There are so many different shades to Shepard that discovering them all has helped players invest even more into “Mass Effect” and its hero.

“The Last of Us” franchise (2013-)


There have been quite a few “Lone Wolf and Cub” style video game pairings over the last few years, but Joel and Ellie are arguably the most influential. Survivors of a fungal mutant apocalypse, the duo come to rely on each other and care for each other in a sort of father-daughter bond. Each is very flawed and human, capable of acting selfishly - often with dire consequences. And while the gameplay of the series has been praised, it’s arguably Joel and Ellie, as well as their relationship, that won the hearts of players - and made certain developments so heartbreaking and controversial.

“Halo” franchise (2001-)

When your armor is that iconic, you don’t need a face to be the face of Xbox. Master Chief Petty Officer John-117, better known as Master Chief, is a Spartan supersoldier and the tip of humanity’s spear in their war against alien threats, namely the Covenant and the Flood. Taciturn, badass, and short on words, besides one-liners, the Chief is basically the ultimate sci-fi action hero. No matter how impossible the odds may seem, Master Chief manages to overcome them in spectacular fashion. It’s no wonder why he’s become one of gaming’s most recognizable characters.

“Red Dead Redemption 2” (2018)

To be honest, nearly every character in the “Red Dead” games is incredibly well realized. And while John Marston, the protagonist of “Red Dead Redemption” was a tempting alternative, we have to tip our hats to Arthur Morgan. Arthur feels like a real person brought to life on screen. He’s done plenty of things he’s not proud of, yet his road to redemption is a believable one. Arthur is as nuanced an outlaw cowboy character as any that’s ever been put on screen, much less in a video game. No matter how you play him, Arthur’s choices, your choices, feel true to the man himself.

“Uncharted” franchise (2007-)

There are a lot of gaming everyman heroes, but Nathan Drake arguably takes the crown. Sure, he’s essentially an action adventure star, going on globetrotting adventures in search of lost treasures and getting into situations that would probably kill most people. Seriously, the number of moving vehicles this guy has fallen out of…It’s gotten to the point where he’s practically synonymous with adventure gaming. Yet his wit and charm, as well as his humanity, always shine through. Nate feels relatable in a way so many video game protagonists don’t. He’s flawed, vulnerable, and makes mistakes. But we can’t help rooting for him just the same.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Arguably the Hooded Face of This Storied Historical Series

One of Gaming’s Best Double Acts

He’s Just a Chill, Funny Skeleton Dude…Until He Suddenly ISN’T

“God of War” franchise (2005-)

He may not be a historical god, but Kratos has acquired a devoted following and mythos all his own in the 21st century. Initially a vengeful warrior turned deity, Kratos uses the pain of his family’s loss as fuel for his fiery quest that practically burns the Greek pantheon to the ground. Later games see him seek a better way forward, both for himself, and his son Atreus, while battling Norse gods and legends. Kratos is a phenomenally written and performed character, whose ghost-white look and tragic, yet badass story have helped him attain a god-like status in the video game landscape.


Is there a 21st century gaming figure we forgot? “Finish the fight” and share your favorites in the comments!