Sidekicks We Can't Forget: Memorable Gaming Companions

25 May 2025

When it comes to gaming, we often remember the protagonists—the heroes and heroines who take on impossible odds to save the world, rescue the princess, or beat the bad guys. But let’s be real for a second: would many of those main characters have succeeded without some backup? Sidekicks in video games are like the trusty best friends we all need—steadfast, supportive, and sometimes even more interesting than the lead character!

From loyal pets to quirky allies, gaming sidekicks have left an unforgettable mark on us. So, grab your health potions and buckle up because we’re about to dive into some of the most memorable gaming companions ever.

What Makes a Great Gaming Sidekick?

Before we dig into the heart of the list, let’s talk about what makes a sidekick truly unforgettable. Is it their personality? Their usefulness in combat? Or maybe it’s their emotional bond with the player and protagonist. Honestly, it’s a combination of all those things.

A great sidekick sticks with you through thick and thin, filling in the gaps when you’re faltering and reminding you that you’re not in this alone. They’re like the peanut butter to your jelly or the Luigi to your Mario. Sometimes, they’re even the comic relief you didn’t know you needed—turning a tense boss fight into something you can laugh about post-battle.

Now that we’ve set the scene... let’s get into some of the sidekicks we simply can’t forget.

1. Dogmeat (Fallout Series)

Who doesn’t love a loyal canine companion? Dogmeat might not have dialogue or a huge backstory, but what this furry friend brings to the Fallout series is pure, unfiltered loyalty. Whether you’re scavenging the wasteland or sneaking past dangerous entities, Dogmeat has your back (and sometimes snags you extra loot).

Why is Dogmeat so memorable? Let’s face it—there’s something heartwarming about having a trusty dog by your side while you’re surviving a nuclear apocalypse. He’s not just a helper; he’s your friend in a cold, lonely world.

2. Clank (Ratchet & Clank)

Could we even imagine Ratchet without Clank? This little robot is the brains of the operation, constantly solving problems and upgrading the duo’s tech arsenal. While Ratchet is the brawler, Clank is the strategist.

What makes Clank stand out is his dry humor and unwavering loyalty. Plus, he’s not just a sidekick—he’s often integral to the story. And let’s not forget the times he transforms into a hulking, overpowered version of himself. Who doesn’t love a glow-up?

3. Cortana (Halo Series)

Cortana isn’t just a helper; she’s the heart of the Halo franchise. Acting as Master Chief’s guide, strategist, and emotional anchor, Cortana is much more than an AI companion. She’s a deeply complex character, torn between her programmed duties and her growing humanity.

She also represents something we rarely see in action-packed shooters—a strong emotional bond. Her witty remarks and sarcastic banter make the missions bearable, but it’s her vulnerable moments that really hit you in the feels.

4. Epona (The Legend of Zelda Series)

Sometimes, a sidekick isn’t a person (or even humanoid, for that matter). Enter Epona, the loyal horse that helps Link traverse Hyrule’s sprawling landscapes. Epona is more than just a means of transportation—she’s a symbol of trust and partnership.

The best part? That moment when you play Epona’s Song for the first time on the ocarina and she gallops right to your side. It’s pure magic.

5. Elizabeth (BioShock Infinite)

Elizabeth isn’t your typical damsel-in-distress companion. In BioShock Infinite, she quickly proves herself a vital asset, helping Booker DeWitt with supplies, opening tears in reality, and keeping combat engaging.

What makes Elizabeth unforgettable, though, is her humanity. Her curiosity, vulnerability, and strength make her one of the most well-rounded characters in gaming. She’s not just there to assist you; she feels like a real person with her own goals and struggles.

6. Diddy Kong (Donkey Kong Series)

Let’s swing into a lighter vibe with Diddy Kong. Whether he’s carrying his iconic jetpack or bananas, this little guy is the epitome of a fun and reliable sidekick. He’s quick, clever, and honestly, it’s hard not to love his quirky personality.

Diddy Kong proves that a solid sidekick doesn’t have to be overshadowed by the main hero. He’s just as capable (if not cooler) than Donkey Kong himself—go ahead, argue with me.

7. Ellie (The Last of Us)

Technically, Ellie is a secondary protagonist by the time The Last of Us: Left Behind rolls around, but in the original game, she’s firmly the sidekick to Joel. And what a sidekick she is.

Ellie isn’t just some tag-along character; she’s a powerhouse of personality, snark, and heart. She grows on you as the game progresses, and by the end, you’re so emotionally invested in her that you’d willingly walk into a horde of infected to keep her safe.

8. Tails (Sonic the Hedgehog)

Ah, Tails—the OG supportive buddy. This two-tailed fox has been Sonic’s sidekick since 1992 and continues to be a fan favorite. Not only does Tails help Sonic by flying him to hard-to-reach places, but he’s also a tech genius who often saves the day with his inventions.

Let’s be real: Tails was the kid-friendly sidekick we all wanted as kids. Plus, his adorable design doesn’t hurt.

9. Victor “Sully” Sullivan (Uncharted Series)

If you’ve played any of the Uncharted games, you know that Sully isn’t just Nathan Drake’s mentor—he’s his rock. With his cigar-chewing attitude and endless string of dad jokes, Sully provides comic relief while also being a total badass in tight situations.

But beneath his gruff exterior is a guy who genuinely cares about Nathan. Their father-son dynamic adds emotional depth to a series that’s otherwise all about treasure hunting and climbing impossible ledges.

10. Midna (The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess)

Midna isn’t just your guide in Twilight Princess—she’s a fully fleshed-out character with a mysterious backstory and a sharp tongue. At first, she comes off as selfish and manipulative, but as the game unfolds, her true motivations and loyalty shine through.

Her snarky comments and witty banter keep you entertained throughout the game, but it’s her emotional growth that truly makes her stand out. By the end, you don’t want to say goodbye.

Why Do Sidekicks Matter So Much?

Sidekicks are more than just gameplay mechanics or comic relief. They ground the story, make the protagonist more relatable, and provide the emotional connection that elevates a game from “pretty good” to “absolutely unforgettable.”

Whether they’re cracking jokes, offering moral support, or just being there when everything feels hopeless, sidekicks remind us that teamwork makes the dream work—both in games and in life.

So next time you’re lost in a video game world, take a moment to appreciate the sidekick that’s got your back. They might not be the hero of the story, but they’re the reason you’re still standing.