What makes a hero? What is it about heroic figures that so many find so powerful and courageous in their eyes? Well, in the video game world, becoming a hero relies on one’s brave drive to stop at nothing to accomplish the greater good. Yet, even when it comes to the most iconic video game heroes, these characters also offer a more complex look into their heroism than just wanting to do what’s right.
There’s such a creatively vastrange of iconic protagonistsin video games. But, some are impressive with their good hearts and desire to embark on a journey in hopes of bringing a brighter future. From those with true valor to those with remarkable adventurous skills, here are the best video game heroes out there.
10Ellie Williams (The Last Of Us Series)
Unique & Complex Anti-Hero
The Last of Us
What Makes Ellie A Hero…
Ellie Williams' heroism is complex. While, admittedly, she isn’t quite as heroic compared to others, Ellie works hard to give those she cares about an easier life path to take in their ruthless mutated environment. At the same time, it is controversial to consider her a hero.
It goes without saying, though, that Ellie deserves grace. She grew up in a tumultuous world that rarely allowed anyone to get a chance to be truly heroic. And, as a young girl who’s suddenly thrown into knowing nothing but how to survive, it would be hard to discredit her hopes for creating a better world for her loved ones. With that said, Ellie is a beautiful yet complex example of an amazing video game hero.
Criminal Turned Anti-Hero
Red Dead Redemption 2
What Makes Arthur A Hero…
This beloved outlaw is a valuable example of a true anti-hero. Unlike other beloved video game heroes, Arthur Morgan’s goals rely on causing chaos to, in turn, help those he cares about the most. By robbing innocents to aid those in need back at his camp, Arthur has good intentions, yet he still hurts others in the process.
On the surface, you might wonder why theRed Dead Redemption 2protagonist could be considered a hero. However, his caring determination to give the ones he loves a happier life gives him a huge sense of heroism. Although his path in doing so is quite questionable, he’s still a notable video game hero nonetheless.
8Cloud Strife (Final Fantasy 7)
Brave & Determined Soul
Final Fantasy 7
What Makes Cloud A Hero…
One ofFinal Fantasy’smostbeloved JRPG protagonistsis more than just a mighty force with a sword. Over time throughFinal Fantasy 7, who Cloud Strife is deep inside becomes much clearer. At first, he appears as your run-of-the-mill hero. Rather, he accomplished something huge while being your average angsty young adult.
With the goal of saving the world from an evil power company and the frightening Sephiroth, Cloud formed into an admirable hero when he was encouraged to become so. At heart, he is a selfless and loyal person who barely lets others see his emotions. On top of this, it’s how Cloud strives to become a heroic character after looking within himself that makes him a fantastic video game hero.
7Samus Aran (Metroid Series)
Born To Be A Powerful Warrior
What Makes Samus A Hero…
Samus Aran is one of those classic heroes that’s difficult to forget. She’s considered a bright figure in theMetroiduniverse, raised to become a fearsome warrior prepared to take on even the most terrifying battles in history. Dedicated to taking down anything disrupting the peace in the galaxy, Samus is a textbook retro hero.
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She is a lone fighter at heart and is a heroine of very few words. Samus' impressive warrior skills are what many know her best for, but her compassion and yearning to aid the helpless make her someone to look up to. In short, what earns her this spot is how she was destined to be a hero from the moment she took her first breath.
6Commander Shepard (Mass Effect Series)
The Galaxy’s Most Fearless Veteran
Mass Effect
What Makes Commander Shepard A Hero…
While Commander Shepard’s values and morals depend on whether you take the Paragon or Renegade route, this decorated veteran isMass Effect’smost courageous figure. From being put into the galactic trenches to having to endlessly defeat intimidating antagonists, nothing stops Commander Shepard from doing what’s right.
Shepard is a unique video game hero because of how customizable their journey to become the galaxy’s hero is. Not only do you have the opportunity to keep everyone alive, but you get to blossom Shepard’s heroic story into something remarkable. In the end, Shepard’s valiant adventures inspire citizens and their colleagues—showcasing Shepard’s significant mark that they will forever leave and make them one of the greatest heroes.
5Lara Croft (Tomb Raider Series)
Highly-Intelligent & Strong-willed Aristocrat
Shadow of the Tomb Raider
What Makes Lara A Hero…
A huge aspect of Lara Croft’s heroism is not just from her aristocratic abilities and bravery, but rather it’s her character itself. WhenTomb Raiderwas released, Lara Croft served as a memorable representation of a strong female protagonist. Highly intelligent, independent, and strong, Lara Croft showed the start of the representationof women in video games.
It goes without saying that Lara Croft is a hero because of how reliable she is in multiple areas. When you need a hand in combat, Lara can save the day. If you need someone acrobatic and smart to get you through somewhere, Lara is your girl. Overall, she resides at this spot as she’s a symbol of female empowerment and a perfect video game hero to lean on.
4Solid Snake (Metal Gear Solid Series)
Former Spy Turned Into Legendary Warrior
Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1
What Makes Solid Snake A Hero…
Solid Snake is an excellent example of a hero with a difficult past that’s only encouraged them to do good. The belovedMetal Gear Solidprotagonist is a perfect representation of your typical Hollywood hero. He’s not afraid of the terrifying odds that lie ahead, prepared to do whatever it takes to defeat overwhelming threats.
No Metal Gear Solid character could be deemed a hero, but Solid Snake’s actions certainly cut it close. Over time, he quickly becomes the hero in your eyes as he overcomes his fears and takes down an intimidating antagonist to achieve peace. While the constant debate of whether he’s truly a hero is still relevant, he’s one of the greatest video game heroes because he becomes the good guy by simply being a righteous person.
3Link (The Legend Of Zelda Series)
Courageous With A Golden Heart
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
What Makes Link A Hero…
Hyrule would never be the same if Link wasn’t around. Chosen by the Golden Goddesses to hold the ultimate courageous symbol, Link is an inspiring and legendary hero. Even when it comes to different incarnations of Link in various games, he is forever destined to become a fierce spirit born to fight evil.
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Wielding a sword and shield, nearly everything about Link screams classic virtual fantasy heroism. His adventures are authentically brave, always being ready to battle any evil that dares to be on the rise. Not to mention him always being rewarded with a heroic title. Whenever there’s an evil force, you’re sure to find Link coming in to save the day right away.
2Master Chief (Halo Series)
Humanity’s Bravest Hero
Halo: The Master Chief Collection
What Makes Master Chief A Hero…
The world inHalois frightening with its constant ongoing wars against the Covenant. Luckily, there’s one officer who can save everyone: Master Chief. Also known as John-117, this heroic Spartan is the epitome of the franchise. He is strong, fast, and beyond brilliant, winning countless times in combat against the creatures in the Covenant.
Master Chief is the perfect video game caricature of an action hero. Instead of putting focus on himself, he spends his time focusing on the future of others—doing whatever it takes to save humanity. This faceless protagonist does everything in his power to stop innocent lives from having to be at the hands of a villainous humanity, making him one of the greatest video game heroes in history.
1Mario (Super Mario Bros. Series)
Endlessly Selfless & Pure Of Heart
Super Mario Odyssey
What Makes Mario A Hero…
The first face that pops up in players' minds when they think of a classic video game hero is that of a very lovable plumber. Mario is the best video game hero through how well he fits into the nostalgic virtual hero image while having a growing attitude that changes over time.
Ranging from helping strangers to those he cares about the most, Mario is willing to do anything to selflessly volunteer his time to be an asset to others. Besides having the skills to accomplish any task, Mario leaves room to forgive others along his journey—especially Bowser. He captures the heart and spirit of a true hero who focuses on what good can be done, no matter how unreasonable doing so might seem.
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