5 Best Star Wars Characters First Introduced in the Games

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The world of Star Wars isn’t limited to what you see on screen. Many memorable characters actually originated in video games. While not always officially part of the main storyline, these game-exclusive characters often capture the spirit of Star Wars, exploring themes of good versus evil in interesting ways. They even add new layers to the series’ central ideas, going beyond what movies and TV shows can achieve.

There are so many memorable characters from Star Wars games – we could easily list them all day! Think of the members of Delta Squad from Star Wars: Republic Commando, or the funny and brutal droid HK-47 from Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic. But generally, the most impactful original characters are the main heroes and villains whose stories drive the games themselves.

5. Starkiller (The Force Unleashed)

Okay, so even though Star Wars: The Force Unleashed isn’t officially part of the Star Wars story anymore – it’s considered Legends – I still think it has one of the coolest ideas of any Star Wars game. You get to play as Darth Vader’s secret apprentice, who they eventually call Starkiller. This guy is seriously powerful with the Force and a master with a lightsaber. It makes for an incredibly fun, action-packed experience, and honestly, he’s just a really awesome character to add to the Star Wars universe.

The way Starkiller’s story unfolds also shapes how fans remember him. The Star Wars: The Force Unleashed games were known for letting players choose a path of good or evil – saving key figures who would later form the Rebellion, or destroying them. Starkiller’s journey can be heroic and selfless, or powerfully villainous, even allowing players to defeat iconic characters like Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, Darth Vader, and Obi-Wan’s spirit in certain endings. This blend of incredible power and a surprisingly nuanced, young character grappling with manipulation makes Starkiller particularly compelling.

4. Kyle Katarn (Dark Forces & Jedi Knight)

Before the events of Rogue One, Kyle Katarn was the character who first stole the plans for the Death Star. He began as a mercenary hired by the Rebellion and became a key figure in Star Wars gaming through the Dark Forces and Jedi Knight: Dark Forces 2 series, developing a complete character story. In the 1990s, before the prequel and sequel films, Kyle Katarn was one of the most recognizable characters in the Star Wars universe.

Kyle Katarn’s story shares similarities with Luke Skywalker’s – he begins as an underdog Rebel who learns to connect with the Force. But unlike Luke, Kyle has a bolder, more rebellious personality, similar to Han Solo, which makes him a memorable character. Over the course of nearly ten years, and especially in Star Wars: Jedi Academy, Kyle’s journey to becoming a Jedi Master is full of unexpected developments, making him a truly special figure in the Star Wars universe.

3. Kreia (Knights of the Old Republic 2: The Sith Lords)

The Force is central to the Star Wars universe, but Kreia stands out as the only character who really questions its all-powerful influence over destiny. As the primary villain in Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic 2: The Sith Lords, she contrasts with the player character, The Exile. Before her true identity as Darth Traya is revealed, Kreia initially appears as a helpful ally, offering wisdom and guidance to the Jedi in your group, much like Obi-Wan or Yoda.

Kreia perfectly embodies the idea of a “Gray Sith” – a Force-user who doesn’t fit neatly into the categories of good or evil. She’s a remarkably complex character, and the writing team at Obsidian Entertainment created dialogue that truly makes you question many core ideas within the Star Wars universe. Because your character is cut off from the Force, Kreia finds you particularly interesting. Despite the conflict between you, her words and lessons are often profound and delivered with unwavering conviction, making her a memorable figure.

2. Cal Kestis (Jedi: Fallen Order & Jedi: Survivor)

Cal Kestis is a relatively new character in the Star Wars universe, first appearing in the video games Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order and Survivor. Initially, he fits the familiar mold of a young Jedi who survived the devastating Order 66. But the games go beyond this basic setup, especially the second one, really showing what makes Cal such a likeable and compelling character.

Cal consistently proves to be a loyal friend throughout his journey, building strong connections with others – something the Jedi Order traditionally frowned upon. Guided by his master Cere and through his relationships with companions like the droid BD-1, the Nightsister Merrin, and Greez Dritus, Cal becomes a compelling and well-developed character. His diverse combat skills and relatable flaws make him enjoyable to play and are key to what makes the Star Wars Jedi series so successful.

1. Darth Revan (Knights of the Old Republic)

Revan has become a more complex character over time, but those who played the original Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic remember the surprising reveal of his true identity. Introduced as a powerful villain responsible for the Jedi Civil War, Revan was presented as a legendary and formidable enemy. Throughout the game, players learn that he was a master fighter and a great threat who could only be overcome with a massive, united effort.

The big twist in Knights of the Old Republic is that you’re actually playing as Revan, who has lost their memory. This changes how you view everything you’ve done and will do, as Revan’s amnesia sets the stage for either a path to redemption or a return to darkness. Even in Knights of the Old Republic 2, Revan’s influence is still felt – despite being missing, they play a key role in almost everything that happens in the sequel.

Revan’s internal struggle between the light and dark sides of the Force makes for a compelling character, and players have some control over shaping who he becomes. Combined with his backstory as a former Jedi, a Sith Lord, and a hero of the Mandalorian Wars, Revan adds significant depth to the Star Wars universe, even though he originated in just one game.

Tell us who your favorite Star Wars characters are from the video games! Share your thoughts in the comments below, or discuss with other fans on the ComicBook Forum!

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2026-03-29 19:14