The Best-Written Video Game Heroes Of The Last Decade

The last ten years have been incredible for gaming. We’ve seen both timeless classics and surprising new favorites, with amazing moments happening almost every year. This period has brought innovative gameplay, compelling stories, and some truly memorable characters – arguably the best the gaming world has ever offered.

We’re celebrating the memorable characters in games – especially the heroes. These characters aren’t always perfect, and some aren’t even the main characters, but they all stand out in their games. They represent the best video game heroes of the last ten years, and they’ll likely remain popular for many years to come.

We’re focusing on video game heroes who debuted within the last decade – meaning their first appearance was in 2016 or later. This ensures a level playing field, as characters with long histories have had years to develop, making it tough for newer ones to stand out. So, while characters like Kratos, Alan Wake, and Spider-Man have been well-written recently, we’re excluding them because they have established backstories. Be warned: spoilers follow!

10. Zagreus – Hades

A Persistent Demigod Who Wants To Know His Mother

Zagreus seems like a classic hero – kind, thoughtful, and always ready to help his friends. He doesn’t care about recognition or praise. But underneath that good exterior, he’s a demigod who feels something is missing in his life. He’s never had the chance to meet his mother, Persephone, as she left the Underworld soon after his birth to live in the world above.

Zagreus is determined to escape the Underworld and find his mother, who abandoned him as a baby. His father, Hades, wants him to stay, but Zagreus keeps trying, even though he’s repeatedly sent back to the beginning. His relentless effort earns him help from the Olympian gods. When he finally makes it to the surface, Zagreus learns he’s cursed and will quickly die outside the Underworld. Still, he continues to escape, cherishing even brief moments with his mother before returning to his endless cycle. It’s hard not to admire his unwavering dedication.

9. Kim Kitsuragi – Disco Elysium

A Loyal Partner, Even When Harry Doesn’t Deserve Loyalty

Kim Kitsuragi hadn’t met Harry du Bois before they crossed paths in Revachol, and it’s understandable if he’d been put off by Harry’s messy appearance and memory loss. But Kim isn’t the type to walk away. He’s logical, a bit rigid, and always follows the rules, but he won’t abandon someone who needs assistance – especially not someone as lost as Harry, who clearly relies on Kim’s support (as long as they aren’t prejudiced).

While Harry Du Bois is the main character in Disco Elysium, Kim Kitsuragi is truly the core of the story. Harry is easily led and prone to bad ideas, but Kim grounds the investigation, keeps things on track, and offers sensible advice, even if Harry doesn’t listen. How you treat Kim matters – be kind, and he might offer a compliment. Be rude, and he’ll suggest Harry get removed from the case, or worse, Harry could end up getting Kim killed. In a lot of ways, Kim is the real hero of Disco Elysium, because Harry rarely feels like one, except in a very straightforward and uninteresting playthrough.

8. Aloy – Horizon Zero Dawn

A Child Of Circumstance Learns She Is Something Greater

Aloy is a classic hero. She starts as an outcast, a young woman from the Nora tribe who discovers a special device called a “Focus.” This device lets her interact with the robots that now roam the land, and she quickly becomes skilled at using it. But that’s just the beginning – Aloy’s connection to the Focus and the lost technology of the old world runs much deeper than she realizes. In fact, she isn’t even originally from the Nora tribe. This unique connection makes her stand out and gives her importance wherever she travels, no matter what she’s doing.

Aloy is known for helping others and saving lives, but she consistently refuses opportunities to take on leadership roles. Initially, this makes sense – she’s dedicated to uncovering the truth about Elizabet Sobeck and the Focus. However, over time, it becomes a bit frustrating how often she avoids forming deeper connections with the people around her. Yet, this feels genuine. Aloy understands she’s always been an outsider, caught between the present and the lost world. The weight of this realization makes her guarded, and that feels honest. She isn’t a selfless hero; she’s a person burdened with an impossible task, and it understandably affects her. This is precisely what makes her character so relatable and believable.

7. Johnny Silverhand – Cyberpunk 2077

The Long-Dead Rocker Revolutionary With A Decades-Old Vendetta

Credits: CD Projekt Red

Johnny Silverhand isn’t just a name from the past; he was a famous rockstar, a cultural icon, a war veteran, and ultimately, a rebel who fought against the powerful corporations ruling Night City. His outspoken criticism of Arasaka, the company that controlled everything, led to a dangerous raid on their headquarters in 2023. He faced off against Adam Smasher and didn’t survive. But before he died, his personality and memories were saved onto a special chip. All he needed then was someone to upload his consciousness into, slowly taking over their mind. In the game Cyberpunk 2077, that person is V.

Johnny Silverhand initially tries to control V’s mind, but when that doesn’t work, he proposes a partnership. He recognizes V’s potential for rebellion and skillfully manipulates them into joining his cause. However, as V learns about Johnny’s past and the injustices he suffered, they begin to understand his motivations aren’t just about revenge, but about achieving justice. This understanding fosters a mutual sympathy between them. Ultimately, when faced with a critical decision – confronting Arasaka or escaping Night City – Johnny trusts V to choose their path. Neither Johnny nor V starts out as a hero, and watching their journeys toward heroism – however unconventional that may be in Night City – is what elevates Cyberpunk 2077 to a truly exceptional game.

6. Abby – The Last Of Us Part 2

Hero To Some, Villain To Others, But Undeniably Human

Abby is a divisive character – people tend to have strong feelings about her, and that’s understandable. She begins the story as the antagonist in The Last of Us Part 2, deceiving and killing Joel, and forcing Ellie to witness it. This shocking and violent scene is intentionally crafted to make players despise Abby, aligning them with Ellie’s perspective as she seeks revenge. However, the game then subverts expectations, changing the narrative in an unexpected way.

About halfway through the game, players are unexpectedly put in the shoes of Abby, forced to experience the aftermath of Joel’s death and witness Ellie’s quest for revenge from her side. This shift was unsettling for many and didn’t resonate with everyone. However, for those who continued, Abby’s story ultimately provided a different perspective, allowing them to compare her motivations and pain with Ellie’s. Players began to understand Abby’s flaws and the reasons behind her actions, recognizing parallels to Ellie’s own struggles. It also challenged their perception of Joel, revealing a more complex and arguably realistic character. The fact that many players finished The Last of Us Part 2 believing Ellie was the true villain speaks volumes about the depth and effectiveness of Abby’s character development.

5. 2B – NieR: Automata

An Android Built For War Who Breaks Her Programming

In NieR: Automata, the character 2B is a blend of the traits of the other two main characters, 9S and A2. She forms a close, emotional bond with 9S, despite androids not being designed to feel, and learns the truth about the YoRHa organization and the never-ending war with the aliens. In contrast, 9S is driven by his feelings, while A2 has cut ties with YoRHa after realizing they were deceived.

2B is a complex character, caught between her loyalty to YoRHa—through her bond with 9S and her commitment to the mission—and the devastating realization that the war is based on a lie. This internal struggle makes her surprisingly human and relatable. But what truly makes her stand out is her courage, self-assurance, and ability to not only complete her assignments, but also to think for herself and even show compassion despite her programming. She’s a character you naturally root for, respect, and admire, which is why her fate is so impactful. Her popularity extends beyond the game as well; she’s become a hugely popular cosplay choice, cementing her status as a modern icon in gaming.

4. Hornet – Hollow Knight: Silksong

A Lifelong Warrior Seeking A Kingdom She Can Save

Hornet isn’t a deeply explored character in Hollow Knight, but her enigmatic nature makes you curious about her story. Hollow Knight: Silksong dives into that story in detail. We learn that Hornet was originally meant to protect the kingdom of Hallownest, but wasn’t able to, leading to its downfall—the setting of the first game. Now, after years of being imprisoned in Pharloom, she’s determined to make things right.

Hornet is a much more complex character than the Knight. While the Knight is a newcomer destined for heroism, Hornet has a rich past filled with experiences and battles. It’s rare to see a hero in games who already has a long history of accomplishments. She’s self-assured and capable, knowing how to lead and help others, even when she doesn’t necessarily like them. As you learn more about her – including her ties to the Weavers – it becomes clear that even great power doesn’t change her fundamental nature. Hornet is a true hero, flawed and burdened by past mistakes, but always driven to do what’s right, no matter the personal cost.

3. Verso – Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

A Flawed Copy Of A Dead Man Who Desperately Wants Peace

While characters like Gustave and Maelle also feature in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Verso is a particularly complex figure. He isn’t the original Verso—the real Verso is deceased. This ‘Painted Verso’ is an imperfect replica, existing within a world created by his original self. He was then made immortal by his mother, and tragically, he’s aware of his artificiality. Forever bound to be a shadow of the man he’s meant to be, everyone close to him meets an untimely end—except for his father, who is a mass murderer.

Verso genuinely connects with and cares for the people he meets on these expeditions, wanting them to succeed. He secretly knows their success will destroy his world, but he doesn’t tell them out of spite – he simply believes the inevitable destruction is already happening as slowly as possible. While killing the Paintress would speed things up, he sees it as a kind of mercy. This internal conflict makes Verso a compelling character. He’s both caring and self-interested, devoted to his chosen family even if they aren’t related by blood. He loves his friends, yet aiding the expeditions ultimately means their demise. Verso isn’t straightforward, but he’s surprisingly relatable, a testament to the skill of the writing.

2. Astarion – Baldur’s Gate 3

A Vampire Longing For Freedom

Honestly, Baldur’s Gate 3 is full of amazing characters, but Astarion just stands out. He’s become the face of the game, even people who haven’t played it have heard of “the sexy vampire!” His backstory is so tragic – for two hundred years, he was basically a slave to this awful vampire lord, Cazador. Then, just when he thought things couldn’t get worse, he gets snatched up by mind flayers, infected with a parasite, and ends up joining forces with my character, Tav. It’s a wild ride!

Astarion initially comes across as a classic vampire – charismatic, articulate, and intelligent. But that’s just a facade. As you get to know him, his deep-seated fear and sadness become apparent. He’s primarily afraid of his creator, Cazador, but also of being vulnerable in a world he sees as full of those who would exploit others. This drives him to do whatever it takes to gain power and protect himself, especially from Cazador. Interestingly, if you question his choices, Astarion is capable of letting go of his cynicism and forming genuine connections with Tav and the rest of the group. Seeing this initially aloof vampire make friends – or even something more – is a powerful and touching experience, and it explains why he’s resonated so strongly with players among the many memorable characters in Baldur’s Gate 3.

1. Arthur Morgan – Red Dead Redemption 2

An Outlaw Trying To Be A Better Man

Most video game heroes take time to become well-known, but Arthur Morgan instantly became an iconic figure. This is especially remarkable considering he followed John Marston, another popular character. In many ways, Arthur surpassed John, largely due to his sincerity despite being an outlaw with a complicated history. He consistently cares for his friends, even when they don’t necessarily deserve it, and prioritizes their well-being above his own, even if they’re selfish. Despite a life of crime – robbing banks, completing contracts, and breaking out of jail – Arthur remains a genuinely noble and righteous character.

It feels natural that Arthur Morgan undergoes a significant change halfway through Red Dead Redemption 2. After learning he has tuberculosis, he genuinely tries to become a better person and make amends for his past. This makes sense because, even when playing as a less honorable version of Arthur, he wasn’t truly evil. He did questionable things, but his inherent goodness always shone through. As Arthur evolves, he starts to question his gang and especially Dutch, causing him to re-evaluate everything he thought he knew about family and himself. Arthur is a masterful deconstruction of a classic character, breaking down familiar tropes to see if they can be rebuilt into something more meaningful and relatable. Considering how much players love Arthur Morgan, it’s clear the answer is yes.

2026-01-29 22:08