10 Greatest Nolan North Characters That Redefined Gaming Icons

Nolan North is well-known for his extensive work as a voice actor in the gaming world, with characters he’s portrayed becoming legendary benchmarks that many aspire to emulate. His versatile performances across various video games have earned him a great deal of respect and admiration. It’s only fitting to acknowledge his exceptional skill and iconic roles in the gaming industry.

Let’s take a retrospective glance at some of Nolan North’s most notable roles and the media they originate from, comparing them to understand which ones stand out in his impressive portfolio of nearly 30 years in acting, voiceover work, and performance capture.

10. David

The Disturbing Cannibal Leader

Featured in: The Last of Us

In “The Last of Us,” there’s a terrifying blend of horrors from the cordyceps infection and ruthless human survivors. Among them, David stands out as one of the most brutal survivors who has adapted to this new world by becoming a cannibal. However, Nolan North infuses such a subtle intensity into his portrayal of David with his soothing voice, yet it’s evident that something is amiss about the character – be it in his demeanor or choice of words.

David’s character is exceptionally chilling, and it’s striking to witness Nolan North portray such a dark, contrasting role from Nathan Drake. This demonstrates the depth of his acting abilities, as David leaves an indelible impression with his unsettling traits that make players feel uncomfortable in his presence entirely.

9. Raphael

The Always-Angry New Yorker Turtle With More Than Just a Shell On His Shoulders

Featured in: TMNT (2007)

The “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” film proved to be quite intriguing, leaving many eager for a follow-up. The movie delved into the aftermath of Shredder’s defeat and the lives of the four turtle siblings. Furthermore, Nolan North was an ideal fit for portraying Raphael, capturing his persistent anger and ongoing resentment about relinquishing his vigilante lifestyle.

As a devotee, I can’t help but admire Nolan North’s portrayal of Raphael. He masterfully captures the gritty New York accent and the fierce style we adore in the ninja turtle with the iconic red bandana and sai. His on-screen dynamics with the other turtles, particularly Leonardo, are filled with tension that makes me yearn for more of this intricate character’s storyline. It’s truly a pity there wasn’t more to explore in his journey.

8. The Penguin

The Sadistic and Greedy Mobster of Gotham City

Featured in: Batman: Arkham City, Batman: Arkham Knight, Batman: Arkham Origins, Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League

Among Nolan North’s roles, the Penguin stands out as one of his finest performances, often going unnoticed by players who have experienced the Batman Arkham games that he voices. In this iteration, Oswald Cobblepot adopts a Cockney accent and uses a gruff voice, which sets him apart from other characters voiced by Nolan North.

In various roles, Nolan North brilliantly showcases the uniqueness and high quality of his acting skills as he portrays the Penguin. He captures the character’s distinctive speech patterns perfectly, along with his unbridled greed, cruel tendencies, and remarkable cowardice when confronted by Batman’s punches.

7. Desmond Miles

A Young Man Destined for the Ultimate Fate of an Assassin

Featured in: Assassin’s Creed, Assassin’s Creed 2, Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood, Assassin’s Creed: Revelations, Assassin’s Creed 3

Typically, when people imagine the golden age of Assassin’s Creed, it’s usually Ezio Auditore who comes to mind instead of the modern-day segments. However, just because Ezio is more frequently associated with this era doesn’t mean that Desmond Miles’ sections should be overlooked. In fact, they offer some of the richest, character-driven narrative moments in the series, with Nolan North portraying the lead character, Desmond Miles.

Nolan North’s character Desmond Miles generally maintains a composed demeanor compared to others, but he often grows agitated when he encounters situations beyond his understanding in the vast universe of Assassins and Templars. Being unfamiliar with this world gives him an inexperience that is contrasted by his eagerness to learn and rebellious spirit, making him a delightful contemporary hero that the series sorely lacks.

6. Iron Man

The Confident and Snarky Genius to Rival RDJ

Featured in: The Avengers

Despite Square Enix’s The Avengers not receiving widespread acclaim (similar to the following title), it had its strong points, notably in its cast and characters. One of these characters was Iron Man and Tony Stark, portrayed by Nolan North with an air of self-assurance and a witty demeanor that certainly transcended being just another typical Robert Downey Jr. depiction.

As a devoted fan, I must commend Nolan North for his exceptional portrayal of Iron Man. His unique voice is instantly recognizable, but what truly sets him apart is the fresh perspective he offers, embodying an authentic version of the character that resonates with comic book fans. Here’s to hoping we’ll get to witness this remarkable performance again in another game down the line!

5. Superman

The Booming Man of Steel with a Dark Streak

Featured in: Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League

Similar to how The Avengers didn’t receive sufficient screen time, unfortunately, the same happened with Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, leaving less time for audiences to enjoy it fully. However, a silver lining was that they got to experience Nolan North’s portrayal of Superman, even if his appearance was brief. Prior to Brainiac’s corruption, Superman can be heard in various audio logs and viewed as holograms in the Hall of Justice museum, showcasing his friendly demeanor and distinctly Superman-like qualities, reinforced by North’s powerful voice that carries a subtle gentleness that leaves one in admiration.

It’s unfortunate that even after Brainiac’s corruption, traces of the powerful, iconic voice associated with Superman remain, but this time with a cruel undertone – a knowing smile suggesting he could easily shatter the world between his hands if he so desired.

4. Ghost

The Guardian’s Best Friend, a Loving Voice in Dark Times

Featured in: Destiny, Destiny 2

In Destiny, Peter Dinklage initially provided the voice for the Ghost character, but it’s undeniable that Nolan North made a deeper impact. With each new season and expansion, it’s delightful to hear more lines from the Ghost. The Ghost in Destiny isn’t just any Ghost; he’s your Ghost, who stands by you through thick and thin, reviving you and sharing both the joys and hardships of the Light versus Dark war since its very beginning.

In a captivating performance by Nolan North, the character of the Ghost is portrayed with an infectious sense of wonder, courage, and unwavering loyalty towards the Vanguard – yet above all else, to you, Guardian. The Ghost serves as a beacon we adore, and through Nolan North’s skillful acting, he breathes life into this small and mechanical entity, making it something we can’t help but treasure.

3. Deadpool

A Defining Voice for the Merc with a Mouth

Featured in: Deadpool, Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3: The Black Order, Marvel’s Midnight Suns

Prior to Ryan Reynolds bringing the character to live-action, amassing over a billion dollars, there was Nolan North in the red spandex and disfigured skin. Though Reynolds now portrays Deadpool on screen, North continues to voice both Deadpool and Wade Wilson. Hearing North’s rendition of Deadpool is always a delight, as it carries an edge, wit, and a dash of mischief in every word. The character voiced by Nolan North exudes grit, humor, and chaos.

It’s challenging not to smile at Nolan North’s chatter as Deadpool because his voice suggests he’s really enjoying playing this lively character. This delight only fuels our desire for even more of him, as the Mouth with a Merc who exudes an irresistible charm and bothersome personality has us hooked.

2. Edward Richtofen

The Crazed German Scientist of Ultimis and the Doomed Genius of Primis

Featured in: Call of Duty: World at War, Call of Duty: Black Ops, Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, Call of Duty: Black Ops 3, Call of Duty: Black Ops 4, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

The Call of Duty series wouldn’t feel the same without Nolan North’s portrayal of Edward Richtofen, a character who has been present in almost every game developed by Treyarch since Call of Duty: World at War. This is not just because Richtofen appears frequently, but rather because he embodies the spirit of COD Zombies so vividly. Filled with a multitude of personality traits, it’s evident that Nolan North enjoys bringing this character to life through his voice.

From the dramatic performances in cutscenes and audio logs, to the entertaining quips of characters triggered by new Mystery Box weapons, or the thrill of Perk-a-Colas, conversations with Primis and Ultimis crews, or just good old Richtofen himself, this eccentric German scientist is the heart and essence of COD Zombies. And there’s no one else who can bring him to life like Nolan North.

1. Nathan Drake

A Humorous Treasure Hunter Who Seeks Dangers and Fortune

Featured in: Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune, Uncharted 2: Among Thieves, Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception, Uncharted: 4: A Thief’s End

Nathan Drake, portrayed brilliantly by Nolan North, is undeniably his most iconic role. Across four outstanding games from Naughty Dog, Drake takes center stage as the protagonist, with North delivering an exceptional performance in every instance. As the series progressed, both graphically and emotionally, Nathan Drake continued to embody his adventurous spirit, albeit with a touch of sarcasm and wit throughout.

The qualities that Nathan Drake possesses – a passion for treasure hunting, deep affection for those he cares about, proficiency in parkour and combat skills – transform him into an iconic action figure, reminiscent of Indiana Jones from the world of gaming, thanks to Nolan North’s captivating portrayal adding even more charm to the role.

2025-02-20 08:58