All Grand Theft Auto Protagonists Ranked

As a die-hard Grand Theft Auto enthusiast who has spent countless hours navigating the seedy underbelly of fictional cities and causing chaos since the early days of GTA III, I can confidently say that Niko Bellic is hands down the best protagonist in the series.

In a discussion that’s hard to ignore, Grand Theft Auto stands out as one of the most iconic video game franchises, consistently demonstrating its immense popularity. The franchise has introduced some of the most unforgettable characters in the gaming industry, and even its secondary figures leave lasting impressions. With Grand Theft Auto 6 approaching, we thought it fitting to evaluate the main characters from the GTA series, aiming to determine once and for all which protagonist is the finest among them.

Grand Theft Auto Protagonists Ranked

Hey fellow gamers! I’ve been pondering about my personal rankings of the Grand Theft Auto characters. If you’ve got your own take on their order, I’d love to hear it! Share your thoughts and let us know who you think should be ranked where in this list.

10. Victor Vance (Vice City Stories)

Back in the days, I was just a minor character known as Vic Vance, making my debut in Vice City. Later on, they spun a tale about me before that time in Vice City Stories, a prequel of sorts. Life took a dark turn for me as I got tangled up in Vice City’s grimy criminal world, all to ensure the well-being of my family. The game had a decent narrative but didn’t quite leave an indelible mark – that’s why it received the rating it did.

9. Johnny Klebitz (The Lost and Damned)

In earlier versions of Grand Theft Auto, such as Grand Theft Auto IV, players were acquainted with Johnny Klebitz. He was the main character in a dark expansion titled The Lost and Damned, which revolved around an outlaw motorcycle club. This narrative was filled with themes like brotherhood, loyalty, and the ever-present danger of violent demise.

Related: Is Grand Theft Auto Cross-Platform?

8. Tommy Vercetti (Vice City)

Tommy Vercetti, hailing from the era of PlayStation 2, burst onto the scene as one of the toughest and most determined characters within the GTA universe, straight from Vice City. Once a Mafia enforcer, Vercetti possesses the skills necessary to thrive in his line of work, and there’s anticipation that he may reappear in Grand Theft Auto 6.

7. Claude (GTA III)

Claude was a key figure who brought about a fresh era in gaming by debuting Grand Theft Auto III, the initial 3D installment within the series. This groundbreaking game revolutionized open-world adventures and although Claude never spoke, he earned recognition as one of the most influential characters in the Grand Theft Auto franchise due to his impact on the gaming world.

6. Franklin Clinton (GTA V)

In a nutshell, Franklin Clinton was more about following than leading – initially with Lemar Davis, then Michael De Santa – but his exceptional skills set him apart in Grand Theft Auto V. Despite his initial hardships, he managed to turn things around swiftly, transforming into a street legend, amassing fortunes, residing in Vinewood Hills, and executing grand heists.

Related: Why Is GTA 5 Still So Popular?

5. Trevor Philips (GTA V)

Trevor Phillips was quite unstable, yet he stood out as one of the most engaging characters in the Grand Theft Auto series to ever appear on our screens. His issues with anger often led to comical scenarios, but beneath his volatile temper, he was an exceptionally skilled marksman and had a sharp, strategic mind for business. This unique blend of instability and talent made him a powerful character within GTA.

4. Tony Cipriani (Liberty City Stories)

As a dedicated fan, I’d like to highlight Tony Cipriani – one of the rare characters who has left an indelible mark across multiple Grand Theft Auto installments. He was not just a key figure in Grand Theft Auto III, but also shone as the protagonist in Liberty City Stories. Rooted deep within the Leone Crime Family of Liberty City, Tony showcased his unwavering loyalty and exceptional combat skills, carving out a unique niche for himself in this franchise. His story serves as a testament to the fact that one can excel at being both a devoted family man and a respected made man.

3. Michael De Santa (GTA V)

Michael De Santa played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative of Grand Theft Auto V. He served as the catalyst and ignition point for the series of events that unfolded, ultimately leading to the epic journey experienced by over hundreds of millions of players worldwide. Despite his advanced age, he remains an accomplished criminal with exceptional skills in handling various types of weapons. Moreover, Michael demonstrates a remarkable talent for burglary, possesses a captivating charm, and is aware of the importance of nurturing young people to reach their full potential.

Related: Learn About The GTA 5 Source Code Leaks

2. Carl ‘CJ’ Johnson (San Andreas)

In 2004’s GTA San Andreas, we were first acquainted with Carl Johnson, who later solidified his status as one of the most memorable Grand Theft Auto characters. He’s not only a dedicated family man but also an unyielding warrior, with a compassionate heart. His primary concern is for those he holds dear. With versatile abilities and an irresistible charm, Carl’s adventure across San Andreas transforms him from a hoodlum in the back alleys to a legendary figure within the series.

1. Niko Bellic (GTA IV)

In Grand Theft Auto IV (2008), players encountered a more somber, intense atmosphere that significantly deviated from the lighthearted tone previously established in the series. Nevertheless, this change proved successful, as it propelled Niko Bellic into the Grand Theft Auto universe’s limelight.

Among the top-tier Grand Theft Auto characters, Niko stands out for several reasons. Not only is he fiercely devoted to his family and friends, which speaks volumes about his honor, but he also carries out his actions with good intentions in mind. Remarkably, he maintains a likable demeanor even during destructive sprees as he defends those dear to him.

This enigmatic figure is shrouded in legend, sparking curiosity among players who yearn to uncover his past. His odyssey across Liberty City is nothing short of historic, transforming him from a freshly arrived immigrant on a cargo ship to a highly esteemed, feared criminal figure within the city.

That’s why he’s the best Grand Theft Auto protagonist in the series.