10 Video Game Sidekicks That Can Hold Their Own

A more contemporary and respectful term for a secondary character or ally would be “assistant” or “companion”, which better acknowledges their valuable role and contributions to a joint endeavor.

In many cases, not every character can take center stage, particularly in video games, which means that there must always be characters who play supporting roles and follow behind.

It’s worth noting that many sidekicks might not require the ‘sidekick’ role if viewed from another perspective. These characters could very well be main figures, or even the hero or villain, if we were following their individual stories instead of those of the primary protagonist.

At the very least, it’s safe to say that under pressure, these supporting characters would be capable of taking on the main role, whether it’s for a short time or permanently.

10. Miles “Tails” Prower

Sonic The Hedgehog (Series)

Tails, Sonic’s loyal buddy and crime-fighting partner, finds joy in their friendship and often follows Sonic’s lead. Except for some rare instances, Sonic’s decisions generally point him in the right direction. Yet, it’s important to remember that Tails is more than just a sidekick; he has the potential to be a hero on his own.

As a gamer, I’ve always noticed that Sonic’s main advantage over Tails is his blazing speed. However, Tails isn’t just fast; he’s smart, especially when it comes to science, tech, and engineering. His twisty-tail trick might not be as quick as Sonic, but with his knack for technology, he can definitely keep up!

Originally, he constructed the Tornado biplane completely by himself, and the subsequent model, Tornado 2, boasts an incredible transformation feature that swiftly changes it into an artillery walker.

As a diehard fan, I’d venture to say that if given the chance, Tails could easily carve out a career as a solo globetrotting hero, independent of Sonic’s adventures.

Alternatively, Sonic could potentially struggle with it, especially if the evil plan of the moment necessitates anything beyond just running very quickly.

9. Kim Kitsuragi

Disco Elysium

If there was just one mental connection shared by Harry Du Bois, the main character in Disco Elysium, and his partner Kim Kitsuragi, Kim would mostly control or manage that connection.

In a more conversational style, we could say: Harry’s actions are quite unpredictable, often influenced by luck or passing whims, while Kim, on the other hand, follows rules strictly as a diligent police officer.

It’s possible that Kim could be tasked with aiding Harry on the Hanged Man homicide investigation. However, when it comes to their respective records as officers, Kim stands out as being more distinguished.

For more than two decades, he’s been a member of the Revachol Citizens Militia. With a impressive track record of over 100 solved cases, his intelligence and intuition make him stand out. He frequently jots down significant events and individuals related to each case.

Harry’s unique condition aids in considering alternative perspectives for solving the case, yet given sufficient time and resources, it’s likely that Kim might have deduced a suspect without assistance.

8. Elizabeth

BioShock Infinite

If you’ve completed the initial two BioShock titles, you’ve previously encountered some moderately bothersome escort missions where you safeguarded Little Sisters.

In the game BioShock Infinite, you might encounter a character named Elizabeth who seems somewhat innocent and naive at first. However, don’t let that fool you, as she proves to be an exceptionally resourceful young woman.

Immediately after Booker frees Elizabeth from her confined space, the game assures you that she’s capable of managing herself during combat situations. Regardless of the barrage of bullets or fireballs hurling around, Elizabeth knows how to avoid getting hit and stay safe.

Indeed, she holds a significant role as the most influential figure in Columbia, which likely makes many of her adversaries cautious about targeting her. Still, it’s quite remarkable that she manages to stand out amidst such circumstances.

In essence, in the Burial at Sea DLC of the game, Elizabeth demonstrates her ability to act decisively when Booker isn’t present. She might not be as forceful as he was, but through strategic stealth and a touch of cunning, she skillfully takes out soldiers and Splicers.

7. HK-47

Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic

HK-47, often referred to as Hunter-Killer-47, is among the numerous allies you can recruit in Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic.

In essence, given his title, he functions as a lethal robot, specifically created to eliminate adversaries of his assigned superior, with a distinct pleasure derived from each moment of the process.

As a dedicated admirer, I must say that HK is remarkably adept in combat situations. He can take down virtually anyone or anything using an impressive array of deadly weapons. If equipped with a blaster and granted just ten minutes, he’d undoubtedly return with a heap of vanquished foes, maintaining an air of casual nonchalance throughout the process.

In essence, HK’s primary vulnerability lies in his programmed servitude to his rightful owner. His actions toward others are restrained by his programming, which prevents him from attacking unless directed to do so.

This situation keeps him bound to his master, despite his vocal displeasure. Should HK be released from his constraints, he would swiftly embark on a rampage across the universe.

6. Clank

Ratchet & Clank (Series)

In the initial Ratchet & Clank adventure, it’s shown that Clank tumbles from an assembly line of robots belonging to Chairman Drek. Since he’s compact in size and displays intelligent behavior, he is labeled as faulty or malfunctioning.

Despite not exhibiting the obvious physical prowess of his siblings, Clank certainly isn’t a walkover. While he often chooses to stay in the background and allows Ratchet to lead in combat situations, he can more than hold his own when necessary. He skillfully combines hand-to-hand fighting techniques with weapon usage.

While working undercover as a secret agent (not portrayed on his television series), Clank took charge of most of the mission, with Ratchet providing support from behind the scenes mainly during his imprisonment.

Clank might just as well become a renowned intergalactic hero like Ratchet on his own, yet he opts for the companionship of loyal friends instead.

5. Luigi

Super Mario (Franchise)

In various iterations of the Mario series, Old Wii has frequently been depicted as the timid and somewhat clumsy sibling, while it’s typically Mario who assumes the role of the brave explorer. This characterization dates back to their debut in the original Mario Bros. game.

In the end, when it matters most, Luigi has shown that he’s every bit as skilled as his brother, and sometimes even more so. It’s worth noting that in Super Mario Bros. 2, he actually jumps higher than Mario, which is quite impressive on its own.

Working together brings out the best in these siblings, however, if circumstances necessitate it, Luigi is capable of taking charge, as demonstrated in the Luigi’s Mansion series.

He may dislike it, and there might be some complaining along the way, yet he’s certain to complete the task. After all, if Mario couldn’t manage it once or twice, he’d still be stuck within a painting.

4. Alyx Vance

Half-Life 2

In the initial Half-Life game, Gordon Freeman’s flight from Black Mesa and his fight against Nihilanth can largely be seen as a solo performance.

In Half-Life 2, the Combine and Metro Police are highly coordinated, heavily armed groups that prove too powerful for Gordon Freeman to confront alone.

Fortunately, he’s got Alyx Vance as his ally, a combative force who matches Gordon’s skills, if not surpassing them. She might even be more intelligent and tech-adept. Alyx has grown up among machines and engineers, making her capable of cracking nearly any system given enough time and the right equipment.

In the game Half-Life: Alyx, it’s evident that she demonstrates impressive independence as a freedom fighter, inflicting significant harm to the Combine not only when needed but also during her solo missions.

Had Gordon not reappeared from the dimension where the G-Man left him, it’s quite possible that Alyx would have become the Resistance’s champion.

3. Kazooie

Banjo-Kazooie (Series)

In the original Banjo-Kazooie series, it’s usually Banjo who takes on the dirty work, while Kazooie tends to rest comfortably inside his backpack.

In Banjo’s absence from Kazooie, his mobility would significantly decrease; however, Banjo possesses more physical strength and robustness than Kazooie.

Even though they’re a team, I must admit, when Banjo-Tooie allows them to separate, Kazooie truly shines! Leveraging her innate birdly agility, she soars to new heights. Without Banjo’s weight, she’s lightning fast, and her jumps become higher, while her flaps carry her further than ever before. It’s a whole new level of freedom and speed!

Assisted by Jamjars, she acquires the skill to traverse long stretches effortlessly, no longer requiring a landing pad for flight.

Kazooie demonstrates her exceptional skills in both platforming and combat when solo, yet it’s evident that without Banjo around, she might lose interest. Indeed, he serves as their moral guide.

2. Midna

The Legend Of Zelda: Twilight Princess

Throughout the series of The Legend of Zelda games, the character Link often works alongside a range of helpers, such as fairies or spirits. These numerous sprites provide useful advice and may occasionally exhibit magical abilities to aid in their tasks; however, it is primarily up to Link to perform the most challenging duties.

Among all of Link’s allies, it’s clear that Midna from Twilight Princess stands out as the most skilled. Despite being weakened by Zant’s magic, she demonstrates impressive magical abilities, capable of creating portals and even lifting heavy objects using her hair as a makeshift hand.

Initially, Midna only interacted with Link because of an ancient tale about heroes among the Twili. If they hadn’t met, her mission to collect the Fused Shadows might have taken much more time, but it’s likely she would have found a way to complete it eventually.

1. Atreus

God Of War (2018)

In the year 2018’s God of War game, Kratos’ son Atreus is quite young and green. He’s barely mastered the art of using a bow, and Kratos strictly forbids him from shooting unless he gives explicit permission first.

As they traverse different worlds, Atreus’s power and prowess blossom over time. He becomes increasingly adept at confronting adversaries head-on and wielding a wider array of magical talents.

This situation arises when Kratos steps into a column of light within Alfheim, thus leaving Atreus to handle things on his own for an extended stretch. Despite this not being the manner in which he might have chosen, Atreus demonstrates his abilities nonetheless.

In the era of God of War: Ragnarök, Atreus stands fully capable and self-reliant. He has not only perfected his archery skills but also acquired various unconventional talents such as shapeshifting.

By the conclusion of Ragnarök, it’s likely that Atreus has forged his own path separate from Kratos, indicating a potential future where he embarks on a self-reliant journey, possibly in a standalone adventure.

2025-04-01 18:11