The 10 Best Characters of 2025 – Investment Policy

Video game stories really stood out in 2025. Whether they were epic tales of destruction or more personal journeys, the year’s best games gave players a lot of compelling narratives to enjoy. And at the heart of all those stories were the characters – the good guys, the bad guys, and everyone else – who truly made them memorable.

Whether through the beautiful sadness of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 or the energetic mayhem of Dispatch, the most memorable characters in games this year stood out because they were relatable – flawed, determined, complex, and caring. These characters, appearing in everything from grand historical adventures to bizarre horror stories and highly anticipated sequels, stayed with players not because they were perfect, but because they felt thoughtfully created. Here are the best video game characters of 2025, listed alphabetically by game title.

Maelle – Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

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Jennifer English’s impressive victory at The Game Awards has cemented Maelle as the central figure of Expedition 33. It’s clear why: this sixteen-year-old redhead, with her ponytail, handles terrifying circumstances with both poise and resolve. She’s burdened by a difficult past – including hardship, being orphaned, and the likely tragedy awaiting her and her team. However, Maelle isn’t defined by these struggles. She’s a character who changes throughout the story, sometimes in painful ways, as her sorrow becomes overwhelming. Yet, her reasoning, empathy, and choices always feel realistically human – especially considering the fate that may await those who follow in her footsteps.

Esquie – Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Honestly, I never expected to get so attached to a vehicle in a game! But Esquie… Esquie is different. He just throws all logic out the window. In a game that deals with some really tough stuff, he’s this perfect little break – a moment of fun or a lighter tone when you really need it. A lot of players, myself included, genuinely love when he shows up. He doesn’t feel shoehorned in at all. He’s just a sweet, gentle character who always knows how to give you a little bit of joy before things get intense again.

Dollman – Death Stranding 2: On the Beach

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Many game characters are annoying guides who constantly tell you what to do. But Dollman is different. He’s a companion who understands when to stay quiet and let you figure things out on your own, even if you make mistakes. This thoughtful approach fits his sad backstory. In Death Stranding 2, he’s a quiet, yet deeply moving character, showing sorrow without being overly dramatic.

Chase – Dispatch

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Track Star, known as Chase to most players of Dispatch, lives up to his catchphrase – players really need to keep up with him! He’s a wise, honest, and sometimes foul-mouthed character whose connection with the protagonist, Robert Robertson, provides the story’s emotional core. Chase’s take on superspeed is unique and realistically portrays the physical toll heroism can take. More than that, he’s the story’s moral center, always willing to risk everything to help others, even those he doesn’t believe deserve it – and that’s what truly makes him a hero.

Atsu – Ghost of Yotei

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While Jin in Ghost of Tsushima was known for holding back, Atsu is defined by her refusal to do so. She won’t compromise or follow a code that doesn’t belong to her. Atsu’s story centers on revenge, but what makes her compelling is her unwavering determination. Free from the strict rules of samurai tradition, she navigates the world with a powerful intensity that feels both justified and threatening. Atsu doesn’t pause to consider; she acts, changes, and endures. This strength gives Ghost of Yotei a raw emotional core, making its violence feel rooted in anger, sadness, and a fierce sense of self. She isn’t about lost or saved honor; Atsu is the result of events, and she fully understands that.

Hecate -Hades 2

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In video games, a mentor character can greatly impact the player’s experience, and Hecate excels in this role in Hades 2. She guides Melinoe on her quest against Chronos. While her background remains a mystery initially, players quickly learn she is reliable, fiercely protective, and incredibly powerful. Hecate isn’t just the first boss Melinoe encounters; she actively helps the player succeed against Chronos. Amelia Tyler’s voice acting perfectly captures Hecate’s immense power and otherworldly nature as a Titan.

Hornet – Hollow Knight: Silksong

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Hornet’s development from a mysterious opponent into the main character is truly impressive. Unlike the silent Knight, Hornet is thoughtful and intentional in her actions. She tries to understand others first, offering patience even when it’s not reciprocated. But beneath her calm exterior is a strong self-assurance. Hornet is realistic about her enemies and her own abilities, facing challenges with determination and a touch of wit. She feels like a complete character – strong, kind, and unwavering, even when things fall apart around her.

Henry of Skalitz – Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

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Henry begins the game as an ordinary person – the son of a blacksmith unexpectedly thrust into an incredible situation. His journey, rooted in the story of a local hero, feels very human and easy to connect with. However, he’s a complex character, balancing humility and a strong sense of justice with a burning desire for revenge. As players guide Henry through the war-torn lands of Bohemia, they’ll impact history, forge alliances, and build relationships. No matter the choices players make, Henry will ultimately become a legendary warrior whose deeds will be sung by bards.

Hinako – Silent Hill f

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Hinako is a unique character in the Silent Hill series because she’s so relatable – she’s not a skilled fighter or someone special, just a typical teenager. She’s struggling with the pressures of family, society, and the limited opportunities for young women in 1960s Japan. What makes her memorable is how clearly she feels and expresses her emotions. She’s kind and determined, quietly resisting a world that tries to control her life. The horror in Silent Hill f isn’t just about monsters; it’s about the crushing weight of social expectations and the loss of control. Hinako’s ordinariness helps players connect with her fear, anger, and frustration, even though her experiences are set in a different time and culture. Her story is powerful because it feels like something that could actually happen.

Hazel Flood – South of Midnight

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I’m really excited about South of Midnight! It’s easy for games set in the Deep South to get overlooked, and with so many big releases coming in 2025, I think this one could fly under the radar for a lot of people. But honestly, it’s already caught my attention because of its amazing setting and interesting backstory. However, the best part has to be the main character, Hazel. She’s a 19-year-old who discovers she has magical powers tied to her family’s history. It sounds like a really powerful story about overcoming loss and how the past can connect to who we are today.

2025-12-20 17:05