10 Best Video Game Characters of the 2020s (So Far)

July 19, 2026 - 09:39

The 2020s have already given players a remarkable cast of characters, from quiet survivors to loud-mouthed rebels. While the decade is still young, a handful of figures have already left a lasting mark on the medium. Here are ten of the best.

Kratos from God of War Ragnarok tops the list. He evolved from a simple rage machine into a father struggling with his past, delivering some of the most human moments in gaming. Then there is Aloy from Horizon Forbidden West, whose relentless curiosity and burden of saving the world make her both inspiring and relatable.

On the lighter side, Parappa the Rapper might not be new, but the 2020s saw a revival of quirky charm with characters like the goose from Untitled Goose Game. For pure menace, Lady Dimitrescu from Resident Evil Village became an instant icon, towering over players with style and cruelty. Meanwhile, the protagonist of Hades, Zagreus, brought Greek mythology to life with wit and a desperate need to escape his father's house.

Other standouts include the stoic yet caring Joel in The Last of Us Part I remake, the tragic Arthur Morgan in Red Dead Redemption 2 (though technically a 2018 release, his legacy defined the early 2020s), and the chaotic energy of V from Cyberpunk 2077. Finally, the silent but determined Joker from Persona 5 Royal and the heartbroken Senua from Hellblade 2 round out the list, proving that vulnerability and strength go hand in hand.

These characters are more than just pixels. They are the reason we keep playing, and the 2020s have delivered them in spades.