Why “Cooler” Isn’t a Knock on Mario
Mario is a name that every gamer on the planet is familiar with, but just because he's the face of Nintendo doesn't mean he's the coolest or most interesting character around. In fact, if we're talking about style, attitude, mystique, and power, there are plenty of other characters who'd have the edge! Listen, we're not here to insult our beloved mustachioed character; we're just here to shine a light on some honorable mentions. Here are just 20 Nintendo characters we think are cooler than our superstar plumber.
1. Link
Sure, Link doesn't talk much, but that's what makes him so mysteriously fun. He's a protagonist that comes off incredibly composed, showing up when it counts and handling impossible tasks without needing applause. And despite there being so many different versions of him, you'll always still recognize him instantly.
2. Princess Zelda
Even though she's a princess, Zelda isn’t someone who needs rescuing, and you already know that if you’ve played more than one game. She’s often the brains behind the plan, even when she’s working from the shadows. It’s hard not to respect a character who adapts well to difficult situations and still holds a quiet yet powerful authority.
3. Samus Aran
One of gaming's most beloved female characters, Samus brings a level of confidence that others find hard to match. She's self-directed, exceptionally capable, and above all else, able to effectively deal with threats that many others would struggle with. She's the kind of girl who'd laugh in the face of danger, leveling up her cool factor tenfold.
4. Kirby
Kirby's coolness lies in his ability to look absolutely adorable yet still be one of Nintendo's strongest fighters. He's cheerful, but don't make him mad because he has an unstoppable edge in moments that matter. Copy abilities keep him fresh, while his wide variety of powers suits his playful vibe. You can’t really underestimate someone who wins fights while smiling.
5. Fox McCloud
Despite seeing so much chaos, Fox keeps things professional and clocks in for the job anyway. This respected team leader knows how to make fast decisions and always keeps his head when things get messy. If you like a character who feels mission-first, Fox is definitely high on your Nintendo list of favorites.
Miguel Discart & Kiri Karma on Wikimedia
6. Captain Falcon
Honestly, with a name this cool, he's already beating Mario on this list. Besides, Captain Falcon doesn't need a deep backstory to feel larger-than-life; his confidence is direct, and he carries an unmistakable presence that makes gamers pay attention.
7. Donkey Kong
Donkey Kong has a swagger that doesn’t rely on being “the main guy,” and that’s part of the appeal. He’s strong, expressive, and somehow both silly and formidable depending on the scene. He's the kind of video game character that's able to effortlessly blend lighthearted fun with powerful and cool.
8. Bowser
Yes, we know Bowser's the enemy, but that doesn't mean he doesn't belong on this list! We love villains who are comfortable being a villain, and he certainly never apologizes for it. Despite being Mario's biggest opponent across most of his games, we'd have to say Bowser's stubbornness and the chaos he brings makes him far more interesting.
9. Luigi
Of course we couldn't build this list without shouting out Mario's own (often less popular) brother, Luigi! Despite being viewed as the cowardly hero, we'd argue he's a more interesting character than Mario's steady confidence. Even when he's clearly terrified, Luigi will always show up for you, and that's something gamers can't ignore.
10. Yoshi
It's hard not to love that dependable energy Yoshi always brings with him! He’s friendly without being boring, but what gamers love most is how surprisingly capable he is in his own adventures. The way he’s used across games makes him feel like Nintendo’s most versatile teammate. He knows how to be a team player when paired with Mario, but he can also step up whenever he's needed.
11. Wario
We wouldn't be surprised if you were shocked to see this character here. After all, Wario is loud, selfish, and proud of it, but that can be oddly refreshing. He isn’t trying to be heroic, and the honesty makes him stand out. Not to mention, his comedic timing tends to come from attitude more than slapstick, but it'll never fail to make you laugh.
12. Waluigi
Waluigi isn't your typical video game character, but he’s theatrical, petty, and clearly enjoying himself, which makes him memorable even without a mainline game. His fan appeal says a lot about how strong a personality can carry a character. If you like the weird pick that still works, Waluigi is your guy.
13. Pikachu
Pikachu’s undeniably famous and popular among Nintendo fans, but he’s also genuinely cool when he’s not being treated like a mascot. He can be cute and still feel capable, especially in battles where he’s quick and confident. And as the face of Pokemon, it immediately skyrockets his cool factor.
14. Mewtwo
As another iconic Pokemon, Mewtwo is very different from Pikachu. This character doesn’t come off friendly, and that’s part of the point. He’s intense, intelligent, and carries a seriousness that changes the mood of any scene he’s in. Fans simply love how powerful and bold this Pokemon is.
15. Ness
Ness is a Nintendo character that feels grounded in a way that makes his strange adventures even more interesting. He doesn’t act like a celebrity hero, and that works in his favor. His story has a reputation for being offbeat while still emotionally coherent, so if you’re drawn to quiet determination, Ness is an easy standout compared to Mario.
16. Shulk
With such a cool character design, Shulk has always been a fan favorite. He’s thoughtful, but he also has urgency, and that mix keeps him compelling. His role in his world ties him to bigger stakes than simple rivalry or revenge, which continues to draw gamers in and root for him.
17. Bayonetta
As far as female video game characters go, Bayonetta is always a top pick. She's confident in a way that’s deliberate and controlled, not to mention stylish, sharp, and clearly aware of the impression she makes. Even when the tone gets playful, she stays in charge of the moment. It's easy to fall in love with charisma that impressive.
18. Pit
If you love positive characters with more depth than Mario, we wouldn't be surprised if you're a Pit fan. Pit has an upbeat attitude, but he’s not naïve, and that balance keeps him likable. Yes, he follows orders as Captain of the Guard, yet he still feels like he has a mind of his own. His banter-heavy world gives him more personality than many classic heroes get.
Stéphane Gallay from Laconnex, Switzerland on Wikimedia
19. Meta Knight
The Batman of the Nintendo Universe, Meta Knight keeps things interesting with a seriousness that gives him a clean, intimidating edge. He’s skilled, mysterious, and rarely feels like he’s there to entertain anyone. Even when he’s allied with Kirby, he maintains his own standards and priorities.
20. King Dedede
Who wouldn't love a penguin carrying a massive hammer? Despite King Dedede being Kirby's arch-nemesis, gamers love him because he’s dramatic, stubborn, and often funnier than he probably intends to be. The best part is that he still feels capable even when he’s being ridiculous.
