Every Hero Needs Their Sidekick
Sidekicks, by their very nature, are always forced to play second fiddle to their far more beloved counterparts. But at the end of the day, every hero needs a sidekick, and it’s important to give our favourite video game characters their flowers. Come with us as we explore 20 names that deserve more love.
1. Luigi (Super Mario Series)
The iconic green-clad sidekick is constantly being overshadowed by his vastly more famous brother. Nonetheless, Luigi has proven himself as a lovable video game icon capable of carrying his own games, which is the case with titles like Luigi’s Mansion.
2. Tails (Sonic the Hedgehog Series)
It's hard playing second fiddle to the high-flying, fast-paced exploits of Sonic, 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.
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.
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 accomplice goes with him wherever he goes, not only providing emotional depth, but also her characteristic intelligence and wit.
5. Ellie (The Last of Us)
Although later becoming a protagonist in her own right, Ellie was first introduced to us as Joel’s sidekick. Her significance to Joel and the series as a whole was only highlighted by her grit, resourcefulness, and profound character development.
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 Ratchet. The beloved PlayStation series wouldn't be what it is today without his charm and intelligence, whose regular use of gadgets makes him an indispensable component.
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 character.
8. Navi (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time)
Putting aside all the annoyance, Navi does serve 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.
9. Garrus Vakarian (Mass Effect Series)
Known for his expert sharpshooting skills and commendable moral compass, Garrus Vakarian is a loyal ally to Commander Shepard. His relationship with Shepard, in addition to his character development, makes Garrus a compelling sidekick that deserves way more recognition.
William Tung from USA on Wikimedia
10. Boo (Baldur's Gate Series)
Boo, the miniature giant space hamster, has served as a persistent accomplice and confidant to Minsc. As one of gaming’s most unique and ridiculous side characters, it's easy to see why his indispensable charm and humour make him an iconic fixture.
11. Diddy Kong (Donkey Kong Series)
Donkey Kong’s lovable little buddy, Diddy Kong, has been a fixture 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. He can also handle some maps better than DK himself, making him pretty indispensable.
12. Elizabeth (BioShock Infinite)
Elizabeth, equipped with the power to manipulate tears, serves as the perfect companion for Booker DeWitt, our protagonist tasked with rescuing her. As the plot unfolds, Elizabeth’s power and complexity as a character is further revealed, ultimately highlighting her importance.
13. Yoshi (Super Mario Series)
In addition to his cheerful brother, 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!
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 thanks to his penchant for helping players find items and fighting enemies.
15. Palicoes (Monster Hunter Series)
Serving as the series’ defacto mascot, palicoes are your loveable feline companions. From healing to combat to a deep sense of loyalty, the palicoes have been a fixture of the series since the very beginning.
16. Roman Belic (Grand Theft Auto IV)
When he’s not calling you at the worst times for a bowling date, Roman Belic serves as a humorous vessel of emotional support for Niko. As his 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.
17. Kazooie (Banjo-Kazooie Series)
Banjo’s sarcastic bird counterpart is a crucial part of the famed 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 duos.
Pikawil from Laval, Canada on Wikimedia
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, and one who deserves more attention.
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.
Tim Bartel from Cologne, Germany on Wikimedia
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 man with a plan has routinely showcased his tactical brilliance and resilience in the face of unforgiving adversity.
