When Pixels Outperform People
Making friends in real life can be exhausting. You’ve got small talk and the occasional existential spiral when someone leaves you on read. Meanwhile, in video games, companionship is different. Video game characters don’t judge your weird inventory hoarding or side-quest obsession. They might be made of pixels, but they’ve got loyalty that puts real-world friendships to shame. So, here are 20 video game characters who’d absolutely ruin you for ordinary friendships if they were real.
Ellie Sings to Dina - The Last of Us Part II in 4K | SPOILERS WARNING!!! by VideogamersEU
1. Zelda (The Legend Of Zelda)
As the protector of Hyrule, Zelda is dedicated to preserving peace and order, showing a level of wisdom that makes her an ideal confidante. And, let’s not forget, her healing abilities make her the perfect person to turn to when you need comfort or support.
The EXACT Moment Zelda Fell in Love With Link | BotW by The Zelda Enthusiast
2. Ellie (The Last Of Us)
Ellie’s resourcefulness is unmatched, making her a pro at surviving the harshest environments. Beyond her survival skills, Ellie is also excellent at navigating complex emotional situations. Plus, her love for playing the guitar adds an artistic touch to her personality.
Ellie Sings to Dina - Take on Me (The Last Of Us Part 2) by Gameplay Only
3. Cortana (Halo)
Cortana’s strategic thinking makes her the ultimate problem-solver, always thinking several moves ahead. Constantly supporting Master Chief, she’s the definition of a reliable ally, never leaving him in the lurch. Her ability to interface with technology is just a bonus.
Halo 4 Ending + Epilogue (WARNING: CONTAINS EPIC SADNESS) - 1080p HD by FBWalshyFTW
4. Luigi (Super Mario)
Good-hearted and endlessly supportive, Luigi is the kind of person who puts others first, even when venturing into the most dangerous of adventures. But it’s not all about courage with Luigi; his down-to-earth sense of humor adds an easygoing charm to every situation.
Super Luigi Odyssey - Full Game Walkthrough by BeardBear
5. Aloy (Horizon Zero Dawn)
Aloy is a true adventurer, combining sharp intellect with incredible archery skills. Raised by a tribe, she’s constantly seeking answers about her world. Plus, her deep bond with nature and wildlife shows just how connected she is to everything around her.
6. Gordon Freeman (Half-Life)
A brilliant physicist, Gordon Freeman stays calm under pressure, always finding innovative solutions to impossible problems. No matter how chaotic the situation gets, Gordon stands firm against alien forces, never wavering from his moral compass.
[SFM] G-Man Roasts Gordon Freeman by CoreyLaddo
7. Samus Aran (Metroid)
As an intergalactic bounty hunter, Samus Aran tackles hostile environments with ease, showing off her unmatched power and skill. Fiercely protective of others, she always puts herself in harm’s way for the greater good. Moreover, her advanced suit makes her a force no one can reckon with.
METROID: OTHER M All Cutscenes (Game Movie) Full Story 4K Ultra HD by Gamer's Little Playground
8. Arthur Morgan (Red Dead Redemption 2)
Arthur Morgan is the cowboy you’d want by your side in any tough situation. Known for his loyalty, he’s a man of moral complexity with a deep capacity for growth. Skilled in combat and survival, Arthur always defends his gang.
RED DEAD REDEMPTION 2 All Cutscenes (Full Game Movie) 4K 60FPS PC ULTRA by Gamer's Little Playground
9. Kratos (God Of War)
Kratos is the ultimate protector and a father like no other. Despite his fearsome reputation, Kratos undergoes remarkable growth, revealing a softer side. He prefers peace, but when conflict arises, his strength and devotion to his family shine through.
GOD OF WAR Kratos Kills All Gods of Olympus 4K ULTRA HD by Shirrako
10. Lara Croft (Tomb Raider)
With intellect and problem-solving skills, Lara Croft thrives in any environment. Lara's strong moral code drives her to protect history, and whether it's climbing cliffs or solving ancient puzzles, she tackles challenges with relentless determination.
Rise of the Tomb Raider - ALL CUTSCENES - 4K by SourceSpy91
11. Garrus Vakarian (Mass Effect)
This loyal Turian combines a razor-sharp aim with an even sharper moral compass. He’s not afraid to take the hard road if it means doing what's right. Add in his dry, sarcastic wit, and you've got a companion who’ll make you charge into danger with purpose.
Garrus Vakarian | Mass Effect by The Templin Institute
12. Tom Nook (Animal Crossing)
Tom Nook’s your calm, cardigan-wearing confidant. Always ready to lend a paw, he guides you as you build your dream home. And with business smarts that never overshadow his heart, he’s the kind of buddy who values community over profit.
13. Yoshi (Super Mario)
Yoshi faces every challenge with a smile. His playful nature makes even the toughest moments feel like an adventure, and his can-do attitude turns obstacles into opportunities. When Yoshi’s by your side (or under your feet), the journey’s always a little brighter and a lot more fun.
Playable Yoshi in Bowser's Fury (Full Game Walkthrough) by BeardBear
14. Pikachu (Pokémon: Let’s Go Pikachu)
If there’s one Pokémon that captures the essence of friendship, it’s Pikachu. This electrifying companion is always ready for adventure, bringing boundless energy and a spark of joy wherever you go. Pikachu proves that even the smallest friends can make the biggest impact.
YUZU EA POKEMON LETS GO PIKACHU 4K 60 FPS RTX 3080TI GAMEPLAY TEST by Emulators & More
15. Navi (The Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time)
Navi is the glowing guide who never lets you feel lost in Hyrule, offering timely advice when the path ahead looks confusing. Besides, she’s downright indispensable, turning chaos into clarity with a cheerful “Hey! Listen!” that somehow always hits at the right time.
The DISAPPEARANCE of Navi? (Zelda Theory) by NintendoBlackCrisis
16. Chell (Portal)
Chell may not say much, but her actions speak volumes—and usually involve portals, physics, and mind-bending escapes. She’s the kind of best friend who stays calm under pressure, even when surrounded by snarky AI and deadly lasers.
Exploring Portal's Protagonist | Chell | FULL Portal Lore by Skyrionn
17. Ellie (Borderlands 3)
With a wrench in one hand and a comeback in the other, Ellie is a mechanical genius with a quirky streak. Her solutions may be unconventional, but they work like a charm. Plus, beneath her sturdy edge lies a deeply caring soul who always shows up when it counts.
BORDERLANDS 3 - Meeting Ellie - Introduction Scene by Generic Gaming
18. R2-D2 (Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic)
Brave and packed with every gadget imaginable, R2-D2 turns chaos into comedy with a well-timed beep. Locked doors, rogue systems, impossible odds—he tackles them all while staying hilariously unfazed. Even in the darkest moments, R2 keeps his cool and helps others find their way.
C3po interacts with R2D2 by Darth Me
19. Vivi Ornitier (Final Fantasy IX)
Don’t let the floppy hat and quiet voice fool you, as Vivi’s magic could level a mountain before you finish a sentence. He’s thoughtful, sweet, and always two steps away from an existential crisis. In short, Vivi’s the kind of friend who won’t say much, but when he does, it hits you right in the soul.
DFFOO - Final Fantasy IX - Vivi Ornitier EX by zachriel137
20. Tifa Lockhart (Final Fantasy VII)
If emotional support wore gloves and could knock out a monster in one hit, it’d look a lot like Tifa. She’s tough without the swagger and always watching out for the people she loves. So, with Tifa as your best friend, you get the full package.
Tifa's adorable reaction when she realizes Cloud has a major crush on her by SpieLFreuDE
