The Coolest Video Game Characters of 2023

2023 was a fantastic year for video games, and it introduced a plethora of fantastic characters that have left a lasting impression.
The Coolest Video Game Characters of 2023

Highlights

  • Astarion from Baldur's Gate 3 has had a significant impact on players and the internet due to his character development and unique story.
  • Cid from Final Fantasy 16 is an admirable character who fights for equal rights and avoids unnecessary bloodshed.
  • Garl from Sea of Stars is a compelling character with a shocking story arc that adds depth to the game. Other significant characters in 2023's gaming scene include Karlach, Harry Osborn, Lorath, Saga Anderson, Sebastian Sallow, Turgle, and VASCO.

Characters in video games are often just as important as the stories they tell. In some cases, they can be even more crucial, reshaping the narrative entirely. 2023 was a remarkable year for video games, with several colossal releases that continue to dominate online conversations. Among these releases were games with amazing characters that won over players in various ways.

In 2023, Baldur's Gate 3 demonstrated the potential of a great CRPG with its outstanding cast and dedicated developers. Similarly, Alan Wake 2 pushed the horror genre to new heights. These exceptional titles underscore the impact of character development and rich storytelling in the gaming industry. Whether delivering emotional lines or injecting humor into serious games, both protagonists and side characters play a vital role in compelling video games. Here are some of the coolest game characters of 2023, listed alphabetically by their names.

Astarion (Baldur's Gate 3)

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Neil Newbon's outstanding performance in Baldur's Gate 3 earned him the Best Performance award at TGA 2023. Astarion quickly became a highly-cherished character, spawning numerous internet memes and even mods in his honor. Astarion's background and story in BG3 make him endearing, evoking a range of emotions as players explore the various facets of his character.

Cid - Cidolfus Telamon (Final Fantasy 16)

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In Final Fantasy 16's Valisthea, Cid is a champion of equal rights, striving to avoid unnecessary bloodshed, showcasing his noble character. Cid's portrayal in Final Fantasy games exemplified his integrity, reliability, and lightheartedness, making him one of the standout characters of 2023.

Garl (Sea of Stars)

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Garl emerges as a central character in Sea of Stars, adding depth and intrigue to the game with an impactful story arc. His presence elevates the game, demonstrating the significance of well-developed characters in gaming.

Harry Osborn (Marvel's Spider-Man 2)

Harry Osborn's character development in Marvel's Spider-Man 2 showcases his strong and genuine relationship with Peter, leading to unexpected twists that captivate players.

Karlach (Baldur's Gate 3)

Karlach's fiery passion for life, despite facing adversity, makes her a standout character in Baldur's Gate 3, adding depth and resilience to the storyline.

Lorath (Diablo 4)

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Lorath's role as a narrator in Diablo 4 and his journey across Sanctuary depict him as one of the unsung heroes of the game, showcasing his human struggles amidst celestial warfare.

Saga Anderson (Alan Wake 2)

Saga's evolution from an FBI agent to a co-author of reality in Alan Wake 2 demonstrates her resilience and empowering presence in the game.

Sebastian Sallow (Hogwarts Legacy)

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Sebastian Sallow's journey in Hogwarts Legacy reveals his inner complexities, portraying him as a deeply flawed yet compelling character.

Turgle (Star Wars Jedi: Survivor)

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Turgle's endearing personality and humorous interactions in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor make him a fan favorite, adding a lighthearted touch to the game.

VASCO (Starfield)

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VASCO's memorable moments in Starfield highlight his human-like qualities and endearing nature, making him a standout companion in the game's universe-exploring plot.