The Most Hardcore Video Game Heroes of All Time

Ranker Community
Updated April 1, 2024 257.3K views
Ranked By
358.6K votes
27.0K voters
57 reranks
Voting Rules
Kick-ass characters from video games only. Can either NPC or player character.

Who are the toughest and greatest video game characters ever? Not all videogame player characters are necessarily heroic, but we take their side anyway, because our fates are intertwined. But who cares about the weenies? This list tackles only the true badass heroes and protagonists.

The best video game characters immerse us in the story, and eventually gain our sympathy, even if they are anti-heroes (or villains!) And the more badass they are, the more inclined we are to take their side no matter what, and the more powerful we come to feel in controlling them. Even if our princess is constantly hidden in another castle, for some reason...

This is crowdranked list of video game characters, so your votes and lists decide the final order. Which of these popular video game characters do you think is the most badass?

Check out more lists like Most Badass Female Villains, Most Fantastic Fictional Serial Killers, Best RPG Video Games of All Time.

Most divisive: Luigi
Over 27.0K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Most Badass Heroes in Video Game History
  • Kratos
    1
    God of War Series
    10,925 votes

    Kratos, the Spartan warrior with a burning desire for revenge, wields his mighty Blades of Chaos to unleash devastating attacks upon his enemies. With his godlike strength and relentless determination, he carves a path of destruction through the realms of Greek mythology, leaving no foe standing in his wake.

  • John Marston
    2
    Red Dead Redemption
    8,270 votes

    John Marston, the rugged gunslinger of the Wild West, embarks on a gripping journey filled with redemption and sacrifice. Armed with his trusty revolver and sharpshooting skills, he confronts outlaws and lawmen alike in a quest to protect those he holds dear. His stoic demeanor hides a complex soul that resonates with fans as they witness his struggles against an unforgiving world.

  • Arthur Morgan
    3

    Arthur Morgan

    Red Dead Redemption 2
    584 votes

    Arthur Morgan, the charismatic outlaw of the Van der Linde gang, rides across the vast landscapes of America's fading frontier. As he grapples with loyalty and morality, players are drawn into an immersive tale where every choice has consequences. Armed with dual revolvers and a heart full of conflict, Arthur's story unfolds amidst breathtaking vistas and intense gunfights.

  • Ezio Auditore da Firenze
    4
    Assassin's Creed Universe
    8,871 votes

    Ezio Auditore da Firenze, the suave Italian assassin from Renaissance Italy, leaps effortlessly across rooftops as he hunts down corrupt Templars. With his hidden blades and arsenal of deadly gadgets, Ezio embodies grace and precision in combat. Fans are captivated by his growth from a brash youth to a wise mentor who fights for justice in an era plagued by conspiracy.

  • Captain Price
    5
    2,968 votes

    Captain Price, the stoic leader of Task Force 141, commands respect as he navigates treacherous battlefields in pursuit of global threats. With his tactical expertise and unwavering resolve, Price inspires soldiers around him to push beyond their limits. Fans admire his unwavering dedication to duty and willingness to make tough choices for the greater good.

  • The Dragonborn
    6
    4,392 votes

    The Dragonborn emerges as a legendary figure in the land of Skyrim, wielding the power of the Thu'um to vanquish dragons and shape the fate of the realm. As players explore a vast open world filled with danger and intrigue, they witness their character's transformation from a humble adventurer to a mythical hero capable of bending reality itself.

  • Master Chief
    7
    11,037 votes

    Master Chief, the iconic super-soldier clad in green armor, stands as humanity's last hope against alien forces in the Halo universe. With his unmatched combat skills and unwavering determination, he leads his fellow Spartans into battle against overwhelming odds. Fans are drawn to his enigmatic nature and unyielding resolve to protect mankind.

  • Joel
    8
    The Last of Us
    4,278 votes

    Joel Miller, a hardened survivor in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by infected creatures, embarks on an emotionally charged journey that challenges his notions of right and wrong. Armed with makeshift weapons and fierce determination, he navigates dangerous territories while forming a deep bond with Ellie, a young girl who may hold the key to humanity's survival.

  • Doomguy
    9
    Doom Series
    4,742 votes

    Doomguy, an unstoppable force of destruction unleashed upon hordes of demons from hell, wields an arsenal of devastating weapons as he battles through nightmarish landscapes. With his relentless fury and sheer brutality, he embodies pure chaos in the face of evil. Fans revel in his unapologetic approach to annihilating anything that stands in his way.

  • Edward Kenway
    10
    Assassin's Creed III
    2,608 votes

    Edward Kenway, the charismatic pirate-turned-assassin during the Golden Age of Piracy, sails across treacherous seas seeking fortune and vengeance. Armed with dual cutlasses and flintlock pistols, he engages in epic naval battles while exploring exotic islands teeming with hidden treasures. Fans are captivated by his swashbuckling adventures and complex moral choices amidst a world steeped in piracy.

  • Scorpion
    11

    Scorpion

    Mortal Kombat
    6,213 votes

    Scorpion, the vengeful specter from the Mortal Kombat universe, unleashes his fiery wrath upon those who have wronged him. With his iconic spear and deadly martial arts skills, he strikes fear into the hearts of his enemies as he seeks retribution. Fans are enthralled by his dark backstory and relentless pursuit of justice.

  • Lara Croft
    12
    Revisioned: Tomb Raider Animated Series, Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider
    6,807 votes

    Lara Croft, the adventurous archaeologist turned fearless explorer, embarks on perilous expeditions across ancient tombs and treacherous landscapes. Armed with her trusty dual pistols and resourcefulness, she unravels mysteries while facing deadly traps and formidable adversaries. Fans are drawn to her intelligence, resilience, and determination to uncover hidden secrets.

  • Agent 47
    13
    Hitman
    5,047 votes

    Agent 47, the enigmatic assassin known for his precision and stealth, infiltrates high-profile targets with meticulous planning and lethal efficiency. With an arsenal of disguises and gadgets at his disposal, he navigates complex missions in a world filled with intrigue and danger. Fans are captivated by his cold demeanor and strategic approach to eliminating his targets.

  • "Soap" MacTavish
    14
    1,575 votes

    Soap MacTavish, the skilled soldier from Call of Duty: Modern Warfare series, fights alongside elite special forces units in high-stakes covert operations around the world. With his tactical prowess and resilience under fire, he leads his team through intense combat scenarios against terrorist organizations. Fans appreciate Soap's loyalty to his comrades and willingness to sacrifice everything for the mission.

  • Spider-Man
    15
    Daredevil vs. Spider-Man, Spider-Man, The Amazing Spider-Man
    1,011 votes

    Spider-Man, the friendly neighborhood hero swinging through the bustling streets of New York City, balances his responsibilities as a crime-fighter and a young adult. Armed with incredible agility and web-slinging abilities, he battles villains while maintaining a witty sense of humor. Fans admire his unwavering dedication to protecting innocent lives and relate to his struggles with personal relationships.

  • Nathan Drake
    16
    Unchartered Series
    5,324 votes

    Nathan Drake, the charming treasure hunter with a knack for finding trouble in exotic locations around the globe, embarks on thrilling adventures that blur the line between history and myth. With quick reflexes and expert marksmanship, he overcomes dangerous obstacles while unraveling ancient mysteries. Fans are enamored by his wit, charisma, and unwavering loyalty to those he cares about.

  • Sub-Zero
    17
    Mortal Kombat
    5,500 votes

    Sub-Zero, the stoic warrior from Mortal Kombat's Lin Kuei clan, wields deadly ice-based powers as he engages in brutal combat against otherworldly foes. With his icy projectiles and bone-shattering martial arts techniques, he strikes fear into the hearts of his enemies. Fans are captivated by his honorable nature and unwavering dedication to protecting Earthrealm.

  • Link
    18
    Nintendo Universe, Universe of The Legend of Zelda
    8,972 votes

    Link, the legendary hero from The Legend of Zelda series, embarks on epic quests to rescue Princess Zelda and save the land of Hyrule from evil forces. Armed with a trusty sword and various tools, he explores vast landscapes while solving puzzles and battling monstrous creatures. Fans admire his courage, resourcefulness, and timeless adventures that span generations.

  • Commander Shepard
    19
    Mass Effect Trilogy
    6,541 votes

    Commander Shepard, the charismatic leader of humanity's fight against ancient alien threats in the Mass Effect trilogy, makes choices that shape the fate of entire civilizations. With a diverse arsenal of weapons and a team of loyal companions at their side, players guide Shepard through intense battles and complex moral dilemmas. Fans are invested in Shepard's journey as they forge alliances and face impossible odds.

  • Dante
    20
    Devil May Cry
    5,904 votes

    Dante, the demon-hunting protagonist from Devil May Cry series, combines stylish swordplay with supernatural abilities to dispatch hordes of demonic adversaries. With his irreverent attitude and devilish charm, he navigates gothic environments while unraveling dark secrets about his own heritage. Fans revel in his over-the-top action sequences and witty banter.

  • Big Boss
    21
    Metal Gear
    1,221 votes

    Big Boss (aka Naked Snake), the legendary soldier who founded Militaires Sans Frontières in Metal Gear Solid series, operates in morally gray areas as he fights against powerful forces manipulating the world. With his stealth skills and strategic mind, he infiltrates enemy territories while questioning the nature of warfare. Fans are fascinated by Big Boss's complex journey and his role in shaping the Metal Gear universe.

  • Altaïr Ibn La-Ahad
    22
    Assassin's Creed Series
    3,704 votes

    Altaïr Ibn La-Ahad, the skilled assassin from Assassin's Creed series, leaps across rooftops during the time of the Crusades, seeking to restore peace through secretive assassinations. Armed with a hidden blade and an array of gadgets, he uncovers ancient conspiracies while navigating historical settings. Fans admire Altaïr's stoicism and dedication to his creed.

  • Solid Snake
    23
    Metal Gear Solid: The Twin Snakes, Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty
    9,148 votes

    Solid Snake, the legendary soldier-spy from Metal Gear Solid series, infiltrates heavily fortified bases using stealth tactics and cutting-edge technology. With his combat expertise and sharp intellect, he unravels intricate conspiracies while facing off against formidable adversaries. Fans are captivated by Snake's brooding nature and his unwavering commitment to completing missions.

  • Sonic the Hedgehog
    24
    Sonic Underground, Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic the Hedgehog
    2,027 votes

    Sonic the Hedgehog, the lightning-fast blue blur who races through vibrant landscapes, battles against Dr. Robotnik's robotic minions in a quest to save his animal friends and preserve freedom. With his incredible speed and spin attacks, he embodies pure energy as he thwarts evil plans. Fans love Sonic's energetic personality and thrilling adventures that capture their imaginations.

  • Leon S. Kennedy
    25

    Leon S. Kennedy

    Welcome to Raccoon City, Dead by Daylight, Resident Evil 2 and 4 remake
    5,367 votes

    Leon S. Kennedy, the resourceful government agent from Resident Evil series, battles hordes of zombies and other bio-organic monstrosities in a fight for survival. With his sharpshooting skills and quick reflexes, he uncovers sinister conspiracies while navigating nightmarish environments. Fans admire Leon's bravery and determination to protect innocent lives.

  • Cloud Strife
    26
    Final Fantasy Universe
    5,329 votes

    Cloud Strife, the brooding protagonist from Final Fantasy VII, wields an enormous sword as he fights against oppressive forces in a world on the brink of destruction. With his powerful magic and combat abilities, he confronts personal demons while embarking on a quest to save the planet. Fans are captivated by Cloud's complex character arc and his iconic design.

  • Marcus Fenix
    27
    Gear of Wars Series
    3,669 votes

    Marcus Fenix, the battle-hardened soldier fighting against overwhelming odds in Gears of War series, wields heavy weaponry as he leads humanity's resistance against monstrous Locust creatures. With his resilience and tactical acumen, he engages in intense firefights while protecting what remains of civilization. Fans appreciate Marcus' loyalty to his comrades and determination to survive.

  • Mario
    28
    Fanboys, Mario ek Maria dan lotel, Super Mario Bros.
    5,861 votes

    Mario, the iconic plumber from Nintendo's Super Mario series, embarks on whimsical adventures through colorful worlds filled with platforming challenges and quirky characters. Armed with jumping abilities and power-ups like fire flowers, he rescues Princess Peach from the clutches of the villainous Bowser. Fans adore Mario's timeless charm and his ability to bring joy to gaming.

  • Samus Aran
    29
    Nintendo Universe
    6,476 votes

    Samus Aran, the intergalactic bounty hunter donning her iconic Power Suit in Metroid series, explores alien worlds while battling hostile creatures and unraveling enigmatic mysteries. With her versatile arm cannon and acrobatic abilities, she embodies both grace and power as she fights for justice across the cosmos. Fans are fascinated by Samus' stoicism and her role as one of gaming's most iconic female protagonists.

  • Ellie
    30
    1,948 votes

    Ellie, the resilient survivor in The Last of Us series, navigates post-apocalyptic landscapes teeming with infected creatures and ruthless human factions. Armed with her wits and a variety of weapons, she forms deep bonds with those she encounters while struggling to retain her humanity in a harsh world. Fans connect with Ellie's vulnerability and strength as she faces unimaginable challenges.