The Most Iconic Video Game Character, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the video game character you think is the most iconic!
Updated on May 8, 2024 07:18
Video games have captivated audiences for decades, each introducing a colorful cast of characters that leave lasting imprints on the hearts of players. Over time, some of these characters ascend to become cultural icons, symbolizing more than just their games but entire generations of gaming. However, opinions on which character stands out the most can vary widely.
By creating a live ranking based on community votes, we can see which characters resonate the most today. This process not only reflects current trends and preferences but also stirs lively discussion and fond reminiscence amongst gaming enthusiasts. Moreover, your participation helps ensure that the ranking accurately reflects the collective admiration and nostalgia of the gaming community.
Who Is the Most Iconic Video Game Character?
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153votesMario is the most iconic and recognizable video game character in the world. He has appeared in countless games, TV shows, movies, and merchandise. He is the face of Nintendo and has been a cultural phenomenon since his debut in 1981.Mario is a popular game franchise created by Nintendo. It revolves around the adventures of Mario, a plumber-turned-hero, as he navigates various colorful and imaginative worlds to rescue Princess Peach from the villainous Bowser. Known for its iconic characters, platforming gameplay, and cheerful aesthetic, the Mario franchise has become one of the most recognized and beloved in the gaming industry.
- Genre: Platformer
- First Release: Donkey Kong (1981)
- Main Protagonist: Mario
- Primary Antagonist: Bowser
- Main Gameplay Mechanic: Jumping and Stomping Enemies
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226votesLink is the hero of the Legend of Zelda franchise and one of the most beloved characters in video game history. He has been on countless adventures, saving Hyrule and Princess Zelda from evil forces.Link is the main protagonist in The Legend of Zelda series, a popular video game franchise. He is an elf-like character often portrayed as a courageous and skilled hero on a journey to save the world from evil forces. Link is known for his iconic green tunic and hat, as well as his weapon of choice, the Master Sword.
- First Appearance: The Legend of Zelda (1986)
- Species: Hylian
- Gender: Male
- Age: Varies across different games
- Weapon: Master Sword
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322votes
Donkey Kong
Shigeru MiyamotoDonkey Kong is one of the most iconic and influential video game characters in history. He was the first major villain in the Mario franchise and has since become a hero in his own right.Donkey Kong is a classic arcade game released in 1981. It is a platform game where the players control a character named Jumpman (later renamed to Mario) who must rescue a damsel named Pauline from the giant ape Donkey Kong. The game features multiple levels of increasing difficulty, with Donkey Kong throwing barrels towards Jumpman, who must navigate platforms to reach Pauline.- Release Year: 1981
- Genre: Platform
- Platform: Arcade
- Players: 1-2
- Controls: Joystick + Jump Button
Donkey Kong in other rankings- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous monkey
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular game made by Nintendo
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular Smash character
- Position 8 of 10 in Most famous donkey
- Position 10 of 10 in Most popular Nintendo franchise
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410votes
Sonic the Hedgehog
SegaSonic the Hedgehog is one of the most popular video game characters of all time. He was the face of Sega during the 1990s and has appeared in countless games, movies, and TV shows.Sonic the Hedgehog is a popular arcade game featuring a blue anthropomorphic hedgehog named Sonic, known for his incredible speed. The game is set in fast-paced platforming levels filled with loops, ramps, and enemies that Sonic must defeat in order to save his animal friends and stop the evil Dr. Robotnik. With its vibrant graphics, catchy music, and addictive gameplay, Sonic the Hedgehog has captivated players since its release.- Genre: Platformer
- Release Date: June 23, 1991
- Platform: Sega Genesis/Mega Drive
- Number of Players: 1 or 2
- Main Character: Sonic the Hedgehog
Sonic the Hedgehog in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous hedgehog in the world
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous furry in the world
- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular Sonic character
- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular Sega character
- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular blue character
- Position 8 of 10 in Most popular plush toy
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58votesPac-Man is one of the most iconic video game characters ever created. He was the star of one of the first arcade games and has since become a pop culture icon.Pac-Man is a classic arcade game that was first released in 1980. It is a maze-based game where the player controls a character named Pac-Man, who must navigate through a maze while avoiding ghosts and eating dots to score points. The game has become one of the most popular and iconic video games of all time.
- Release Year: 1980
- Genre: Arcade
- Platform: Multiple platforms
- Number of Players: Single player or multiplayer
- Game Modes: Various, including classic and enhanced versions
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615votes
Georges Seguin (Okki) · CC BY-SA 3.0Lara Croft is one of the most iconic female characters in video game history. She is the star of the Tomb Raider franchise and has been a cultural icon since her debut in 1996.Lara Croft in other rankings- Position 7 of 10 in Most iconic female character
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78votesMaster Chief is the main character of the Halo franchise and one of the most iconic characters in gaming. He has been on countless missions to save humanity from the Covenant and the Flood.Master Chief in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular character in Halo
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86votesKratos is the star of the God of War franchise and one of the most iconic characters in gaming. He is a Spartan warrior who seeks revenge against the gods of Olympus.Kratos is the main protagonist in the popular video game series God of War. He is a Spartan warrior who seeks revenge on the gods of Olympus for betraying him. Kratos is known for his immense strength, relentless determination, and brutal combat style.
- Game Series: God of War
- First Appearance: God of War (2005)
- Genre: Action-adventure, hack and slash
- Platform: PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4
- Character Class: Spartan Warrior
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98votesSolid Snake is the main character of the Metal Gear Solid franchise and one of the most iconic characters in gaming. He is a legendary soldier who has saved the world from countless threats.
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109votesRyu is the main character of the Street Fighter franchise and one of the most iconic characters in gaming. He is a skilled martial artist who has been on countless adventures to prove his worth as a fighter.
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Ranking factors for iconic video game character
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Popularity and RecognitionThe character's level of recognition within the gaming community and even beyond is an important factor. A character that is widely known and easily identifiable by a large number of people is more likely to be considered iconic.
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LongevityThe character's ability to withstand the test of time is crucial. Characters that have been relevant and beloved for multiple generations have a stronger claim to iconic status.
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Impact on the industryConsider the character's influence on other games, game developers, and the industry as a whole. Characters that have inspired trends, created new gameplay mechanics, or defined genres hold a special place in gaming history.
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Cultural ImpactCharacters that have transcended the gaming world and become part of popular culture are undoubtedly iconic. Their presence in other forms of media, such as movies, TV shows, or merchandise, further solidifies their status.
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Character Design and PersonalityA visually distinctive and well-designed character can contribute to their iconic status. Additionally, a character with a compelling personality, backstory, or unique traits can resonate more with players, enhancing their iconic appeal.
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Emotional ConnectionCharacters that evoke strong emotions or have a significant emotional impact on players are often remembered fondly and considered iconic. The player's ability to relate to the character or establish a personal connection can be a powerful factor.
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LegacyThe character's overall impact, influence, and reputation within the gaming community and industry over time should be considered. Characters that have left a lasting legacy and continue to be celebrated in various ways are more likely to be regarded as iconic.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most iconic video game character. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or avatar is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 2356 views
- 162 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each avatar once every 24 hours. The rank of each avatar is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most iconic video game character
Video games have been an integral part of popular culture for several decades now. From early arcade games to modern-day console and PC games, the video game industry has come a long way. One of the most significant aspects of video games is the characters that players control and interact with. These characters have become an essential part of the gaming experience and have often transcended the medium to become cultural icons.
The question of who the most iconic video game character is can spark endless debates among gamers worldwide. From classic characters like Mario and Sonic to newer characters like Lara Croft and Master Chief, there are numerous contenders for the title. Each character has unique traits, abilities, and a personality that resonates with players, making them memorable and beloved.
The most iconic video game characters are those that have stood the test of time and have remained popular and relevant even after several years. They have become symbols of the video game industry and have influenced pop culture in various ways. Whether it's through merchandise, films, or other media, these characters have become ingrained in the collective consciousness of gamers worldwide.
So, who is the most iconic video game character? That's up to you to decide. Explore the world of video games, delve into the characters' backstories, and cast your vote to determine the most iconic video game character of all time.
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