Every Hero Needs Their Sidekick

Sidekicks by their very nature are always forced to play second fiddle to their far more beloved and famous counterparts. But at the end of the day, every hero needs a sidekick and it’s important to give our favourite video game sidekicks their flowers. So here are 20 video game sidekicks that deserve more love.

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1. Luigi (Super Mario Series)

The iconic green-clad sidekick is constantly being overshadowed by his vastly more famous brother, Mario. Nonetheless, Luigi has proven himself as a loveable video game icon capable of carrying his own games, which is the case with titles like “Luigi’s Mansion.” 

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2. Tails (Sonic the Hedgehog Series)

It's hard playing second fiddle to the high-flying, fast-paced exploits of Sonic the Hedgehog but somehow Miles “Tails” Prower does it in stride. Sonic’s incredibly loyal sidekick has always stuck by the Sega icon’s side, constantly displaying signs of his robust intelligence and stellar technical skills. 

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3. Daxter (Jak and Daxter Series)

Jak and Daxter just wouldn’t be the same without the loveable ottsel sidekick. Known for his humorous smart aleck personality, Daxter has shown himself to be an invaluably brave and charming character that perfectly balances Jak’s brooding and dark nature. 

Kiri Karma on Wikimedia Commons

4. Cortana (Halo Series)

Master Chief may be a towering super-soldier tasked with saving humanity from an Alien invasion, but he’d be nothing without his AI companion Cortana. Master Chief’s indispensable holographic AI accomplice goes with him wherever he goes, not only providing added emotional depth but also her characteristic intelligence and wit. 

Chris Favero on Wikimedia Commons

5. Ellie (The Last of Us)

Although later becoming a protagonist in her own right with the series’ acclaimed sequel, Ellie was first introduced to us as Joel’s sidekick in “The Last of Us.” Her significance to Joel and the series as a whole is highlighted by her grit, resourcefulness, and profound character development. 

Naughty Dog on Wikimedia Commons

6. Clank (Ratchet & Clank Series)

Another in a long line of beloved video game duos, Clank has shown himself to be the ultimate sidekick for series protagonist Ratchet. The beloved PlayStation series would not be what it is today without the charm and intelligence of Clank, whose regular use of gadgets makes him an indispensable component of the game’s charm. 

- EMR - on Wikimedia Commons

7. Lydia (The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim)

Skyrim’s companionship system is fully highlighted by characters like Lydia, who serves as one of the game’s most memorable sidekicks. Her skills and effectiveness as a warrior make her a fan favourite that deserves broader recognition as a revered video game sidekick. 

Bethesda Software on Wikimedia Commons

8. Navi (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time)

Putting aside all the annoyance that comes with Navi’s infamous “Hey! Listen!” catchphrase, she does serve quite an invaluable purpose throughout the course of the game. Her extensive knowledge and guidance are necessary in helping players to navigate “Ocarina of Time” and its intricate world. 

Piotrus on Wikimedia Commons

9. Garrus Vakarian (Mass Effect Series)

Known for his expert sharpshooting skills and commendable moral compass, Garrus Vakarian is a loyal ally to the series protagonist Commander Shepard. His relationship with Shepard, in addition to his character development, makes Garrus a compelling sidekick that deserves more recognition. 

William Tung on Wikimedia Commons

10. Boo (Baldur's Gate Series)

Boo, the miniature giant space hamster, has served as a persistent accomplice and confidant to series regular Minsc. As one of gaming’s most unique and ridiculous accomplices, it's easy to see why his indispensable charm and humour make him an iconic fixture in the beloved long-running RPG series. 

Interplay/Bioware on Wikimedia Commons

11. Diddy Kong (Donkey Kong Series)

Donkey Kong’s loveable little buddy and nephew, Diddy Kong, has been a fixture in Donkey Kong’s evolution as a video game icon since Donkey Kong Country. His famous red hat and t-shirt, along with his energetic personality and loyalty to Donkey Kong, make him an irreplaceable video game sidekick. 

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12. Elizabeth (BioShock Infinite)

Elizabeth, equipped with the power to manipulate tears, serves as the perfect companion for protagonist Booker DeWitt, who is tasked with rescuing her at the beginning of the game. As the plot unfolds, Elizabeth’s power and complexity as a character is further revealed, ultimately highlighting her importance as a sidekick. 

George Young on Wikimedia Commons

13. Yoshi (Super Mario Series)

In addition to his cheerful brother, Luigi, Mario also has another integral sidekick in the form of a friendly green dinosaur. Yoshi has served as a pivotal figure in gaming’s most storied franchise for decades, with the character even getting his own game in the form of “Yoshi’s Island.” 

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14. Dogmeat (Fallout Series)

Dogmeat, with his unwavering loyalty and combat prowess, serves as the ultimate sidekick in a post-apocalyptic wasteland. He has consistently served as an indispensable ally in the “Fallout” series thanks to his penchant for helping players find items and fighting enemies. 

Mrs. Gemstone on Wikimedia Commons

15. Palicos (Monster Hunter Series)

Serving as the series’ defacto mascot, palicos are your loveable feline companions in the beloved “Monster Hunter” series. From healing to combat to a deep sense of loyalty, the palicos have been a fixture of the series since the very beginning. 

tofuprod on Wikimedia Commons

16. Roman Belic (Grand Theft Auto IV)

When he’s not calling you at the worst times to ask if you want to go bowling, Roman Belic serves as a humorous vessel of emotional support for protagonist Niko Belic. As Niko’s wayward yet well-intentioned cousin, a lot of GTA IV’s narrative and emotional depth runs through Roman, making him an integral part of the game’s plot. 

jondoeforty1 on Wikimedia Commons

17. Kazooie (Banjo-Kazooie Series)

Banjo’s sarcastic bird counterpart is an integral part of the famed Rare platforming series. Her eclectic mix of humour and unique abilities add a greater sense of fun, playfulness and depth to one of gaming’s most beloved and iconic duos. 

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18. Boone (Fallout: New Vegas)

Driven by loss and a relentless drive to exact justice, Craig Boone quickly becomes an indispensable ally in the unforgiving post-apocalyptic wasteland of New Vegas. His skills as a marksman and strong moral compass make him an iconic character in Fallout: New Vegas who certainly deserves more attention. 

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19. Claptrap (Borderlands Series)

As Borderland’s eccentric robot companion who never shuts up, Claptrap has made a name for himself as gaming’s foremost comedic robot. In addition to his role as a facilitator of much-needed comic relief, Claptrap also proves to be a loyal and reliable companion to the game’s protagonist. 

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20. Captain Price (Call of Duty)

As a seasoned combat veteran, Captain Price is technically more of a guiding figure than a sidekick. Nonetheless, the moustached man with a plan has routinely showcased his tactical brilliance and resilience in the face of unforgiving adversity throughout the long-stranding “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare” series. 

Activision on Wikimedia Commons