10 RPG Protagonists You Won’t Forget from the 2010s

Role-playing games have always given us memorable heroes, but the 2010s were special. This decade saw a surge of protagonists who truly stood out and shaped the gaming landscape. Developers began focusing on creating leads with more emotional depth, and players immediately connected with them. These characters made us invested in their stories, their decisions, and their challenges like never before.

We’ve showcased ten video game characters who first appeared in the 2010s and quickly became popular. From epic science fiction stories to huge, dangerous open-world games, each character stood out and helped make their game special. These are arguably the ten heroes who had the biggest impact on gaming during that decade.

10. Arthur Morgan — Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018)

Arthur Morgan, the main character in Red Dead Redemption 2, instantly raised the bar for storytelling in video games. Initially presented as a tough and dedicated outlaw, players gradually discover a complex and surprisingly sensitive side to him. His development throughout the game, combined with his unwavering loyalty, has made him a deeply beloved and emotionally impactful character – one that players continue to discuss years after its release. The tragic circumstances of his death from tuberculosis felt particularly powerful due to the incredible depth and detail Rockstar Games invested in building his personality.

9. Aloy — Horizon Zero Dawn (2017)

Aloy quickly became a popular character when she first appeared in the 2017 game, Horizon: Zero Dawn. The game shows her entire life, from her beginnings to becoming a true hero. It’s a story about her development as a person, set in a dangerous world taken over by machines. Aloy is easy to like because she’s determined, caring, and always curious. Exploring the world with her feels new and exciting, and her constant questioning makes her a compelling character. Her first game established her as one of the best new heroes in role-playing games.

8. Ichiban Kasuga — Like a Dragon: Yakuza 7 (2019 Japan / 2020 Global)

Ichiban Kasuga revitalized the Yakuza series when he appeared in Like a Dragon. While the series has always featured strong lead characters, Ichiban’s infectious optimism and vivid imagination made playing as him truly special. His unwavering belief in others, even during tough times, makes him a memorable and relatable hero. He quickly proved he wasn’t just a new face, but became central to the entire franchise.

7. Noctis Lucis Caelum — Final Fantasy XV (2016)

Noctis immediately resonated with players thanks to his compelling blend of vulnerability and developing strength. The heartfelt journey he takes with his friends gives Final Fantasy XV a relatable, human quality. Seeing him transform from an unsure prince into a confident king is a deeply moving experience. Noctis’s introduction was incredibly impactful, leaving a lasting mark on both the Final Fantasy series and RPG storytelling in general, despite the game itself feeling unfinished at launch.

6. Lightning — Final Fantasy XIII (2010)

Lightning first appeared in 2010 and quickly became a beloved RPG character, largely due to her compelling development throughout her games. She’s a strong, self-reliant woman fiercely protective of her sister, but also surprisingly vulnerable beneath her tough exterior. Her struggles with loss and responsibility, combined with moments of both doubt and bravery, create a deeply relatable journey. Lightning’s blend of determination, thoughtful introspection, and quick wit made Final Fantasy XIII a memorable game and cemented her place as a fan favorite and an important figure in the RPG genre.

5. Adam Jensen — Deus Ex: Human Revolution (2011)

Adam Jensen quickly became a fan favorite when he appeared in Human Revolution. He’s the kind of hero who stays cool under pressure, with a sarcastic sense of humor and a complex connection to his cybernetic enhancements. This made him an engaging character to follow as he uncovered a sprawling conspiracy, giving him many opportunities to prove himself. Jensen’s introduction revitalized the Deus Ex series after a long hiatus, and his distinctive style and strong presence are still remembered by players today.

4. Hawke — Dragon Age II (2011)

Hawke’s introduction in Dragon Age 2 was impactful, as the entire game focuses on their journey in Kirkwall. What made Hawke unique was the player’s ability to shape their personality – whether witty, honorable, or forceful, Hawke always felt like a fully realized character. Their entanglement in Kirkwall’s politics and the increasing burdens they faced created a particularly realistic and compelling story arc. While Dragon Age 2 isn’t always well-remembered, Hawke’s debut significantly influenced the identity of the Dragon Age series, even if that impact isn’t always acknowledged.

3. Frisk — Undertale (2015)

Frisk, the main character of Undertale, showed that a silent character can be just as compelling as one with dialogue. Their adventure through the Underground is both funny and touching, and the choices players make truly matter. Undertale allows you to shape Frisk’s actions, but they always feel driven and purposeful, no matter how you play. Frisk’s first appearance quickly became a huge talking point in the indie game scene during the 2010s, a period when indie games were starting to become more prominent.

2. 2B — NieR: Automata (2017)

2B is a memorable character known for her beautiful and mysterious look, as well as the deep emotions she keeps hidden. First appearing in Nier: Automata, she’s presented as a serious and focused warrior, and her blindfold hints at the secrets within. As the story unfolds and she interacts with 9S, players become surprisingly attached to her. 2B quickly became an iconic character and remains one of the most recognizable video game protagonists of the last ten years.

1. Joker — Persona 5 (2016)

Joker first appeared in the acclaimed game Persona 5 in 2016 and rapidly became a popular figure in role-playing games. As the leader of the Phantom Thieves, he’s a charismatic and smart character who leads his friends through a thrilling and mysterious adventure. His cool demeanor and quick thinking make their missions exciting, and his own journey of self-discovery adds depth to the story. Joker’s initial appearance established him as one of the most iconic and fashionable heroes in RPGs of the last decade.

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2025-12-09 04:41