RPGs have been a staple of gaming for decades, offering the opportunity to immerse ourselves in rich and detailed worlds, and to build relationships with a diverse cast of characters. One of the most important aspects of any RPG is the party members you choose to accompany you on your adventure.
Party members in RPGs provide combat skills, unique perspectives on the story, and emotional connections for players. They shape the genre and choosing the best ones can be challenging with many options available.
Beware of spoilers for some of the games here.
12 Varric Tethras - Dragon Age 2
Varric Tethras is a fan-favorite character in Dragon Age 2 known for his quick wit and sharp tongue. As a rogue, he's a master of ranged combat and wields a powerful crossbow named Bianca, which he can upgrade throughout the game to deal more damage and have additional effects.
Varric's unique ability lies in his storytelling skills, providing you with plenty of humorous banter and engaging dialogue. He's a loyal friend to the game's protagonist, Hawke, and plays a pivotal role in the game's narrative.
11 Frog - Chrono Trigger
Chrono Trigger's Frog is known for his chivalry, bravery, and loyalty. He is a skilled swordsman and an asset in combat, capable of dealing heavy damage to enemies. Frog's backstory is fascinating, as he was once a human knight named Glenn, who was transformed into an anthropomorphic frog by the evil sorcerer Magus. Despite his transformation, Frog remains a loyal and honorable knight, determined to protect his friends and save the world from destruction.
Frog's character arc is also compelling, as he grapples with his identity and seeks vengeance against Magus. His unique appearance and personality make him one of the most memorable characters in the game.
10 Mordin Solus - Mass Effect Series
Mordin Solus is a standout character in the Mass Effect series, known for his brilliant mind, quirky sense of humor, and unique perspective on the game's many moral dilemmas. As a Salarian scientist and skilled combat medic, Mordin is valuable to Shepard's team.
His loyalty mission in Mass Effect 2 is one of the game's most memorable, and his sacrifice in Mass Effect 3 is one of the series' most emotional moments. Mordin is a beloved character who stands out for his intelligence, humor, and compassion.
9 Yuna - Final Fantasy 10
Yuna is a key character in Final Fantasy 10, playing the role of a summoner tasked with defeating the game's main antagonist, Sin. She's a powerful fighter who can call forth aeons, powerful creatures that aid her in battle. Yuna is also skilled in magic and has a variety of powerful spells at her disposal, including the "Holy" spell.
Her selflessness and determination make her a cherished character in the Final Fantasy franchise, and her journey throughout the game is one of the most memorable of the series.
8 9S - Nier: Automata
9S is a complex and intriguing android in Nier: Automata, created to fight the machine lifeforms that have taken over the world. He's curious and intelligent, with an obsession for uncovering the truth about the machines and the world. His hacking ability reveals more about his identity, leading him down a dark path.
The relationship between 9S and 2B deepens emotionally, but tragedy strikes as she kills him multiple times to prevent him from discovering the truth. 9S offers a unique perspective on themes of identity, obsession, and sacrifice.
7 HK-47 - Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic
HK-47 is a notable character in Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic and its sequel, known for his deadly skills and darkly humorous personality. As a droid programmed for assassination and combat, he's a formidable opponent equipped with a variety of weapons and can deal massive damage to enemies.
HK-47 has a unique way of referring to organic life forms as "meatbags," providing some of the game's most memorable moments. His quirky personality and dark humorous commentary add a touch of levity to the game's otherwise serious storyline.
6 Minsc - Baldur's Gate Series
Minsc is a fan-favorite character from the Baldur's Gate series, popular for his hilarious dialogue, "Go for the eyes, Boo!", quirky personality, and his tendency to refer to himself in the third person. He is a warrior who brings his miniature giant space hamster, Boo, into battle.
Despite his lighthearted nature, Minsc is a skilled fighter, capable of dealing massive damage to his enemies with his "berserk" ability, while also making him immune to fear and charm effects. He also has a unique ability to speak with Boo, his constant companion, adding to his lovable and quirky personality.
5 Tifa Lockhart - Final Fantasy 7 Remake
Tifa Lockhart is a key character in Final Fantasy 7 Remake, known for her impressive martial arts skills and close-range combat abilities. She's a powerful fighter who can deal massive damage with her Limit Break ability. Tifa is also a supportive character, able to heal and buff her allies in battle.
Her backstory is a significant component of the game's narrative, revealing her deep connections to other characters and her motivations for fighting against the game's villains. Overall, Tifa is a favored character who stands out for her strength, compassion, and determination.
4 KOS-MOS - Xenosaga
KOS-MOS is a powerful android from the Xenosaga series, known for her exceptional technical skills and combat abilities. She is a prominent party member, capable of dealing massive damage to enemies and providing valuable support to her team, making her a force to be reckoned with in battles.
KOS-MOS's backstory is intriguing, as she was created as a weapon for a secret organization, but later gains sentience and questions her purpose. Her quest for self-discovery and search for meaning beyond her initial programming adds a layer of depth to her character, making her a compelling figure in the game.
3 Garrus Vakarian - Mass Effect Series
Garrus Vakarian is another fan-favorite in the Mass Effect series, serving as Shepard's loyal right-hand man throughout the trilogy. As a Turian, he's a skilled sniper and has a variety of unique abilities, including the "Turian Rebel" ability that can stun enemies, which makes him a valuable asset in battle.
Garrus is also a complex character who provides valuable insights into the game's complex political landscape. He's a loyal friend to Shepard, offering guidance and support throughout the game's many challenges. Garrus is a beloved character who stands out for his unique skills and unwavering loyalty.
2 Kreia - Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic 2
Kreia is a complex and intriguing character from Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic 2, known for her philosophical musings and mysterious past. She is a valuable party member, providing wisdom and guidance to your character as they navigate the game's events.
Kreia's backstory is fascinating, as she was once a Jedi Master but was exiled from the order due to her unconventional beliefs. Her role as a mentor to you and her motivations for doing so are central to the game's story, making her a compelling and unforgettable character.
1 Aerith Gainsborough - Final Fantasy 7 Remake
Aerith Gainsborough is a crucial character also from Final Fantasy 7 Remake. The flower seller is known for her kind and compassionate nature, as well as her magical abilities. As the last of the Cetra, Aerith has a unique connection to the planet and is a key player in the game's events.
Her relationship with Cloud, the game's protagonist, is one of the most iconic romances in RPG history, adding an emotional element to the story. Aerith's tragic destiny, which culminates in her heartbreaking death, solidifies her status as one of the most memorable and impactful characters in the game.