No need for flashy 3D graphics, the two-dimensional world is still the birthplace of true legends. With just simple movements and unique shapes, they have become cultural icons. So what is the secret to shining in a flat space? Discover top video game characters below!
Scope of game character design
The success of a 2D game depends a lot on the characters it creates. A well-designed character will be a solid bridge between the player and the virtual world. With many years of experience in the game design industry, we affirm that for a character to be on the list of top video game characters, appearance is only part of the story.
To truly create an icon, designers need to focus on the following four inseparable elements:
- Visual aesthetics: This is the basic foundation. The appearance of the character, from clothing, color to small details, all contribute to creating the first impression and helping players identify the character.
- Personality traits: Personality determines the character’s actions and reactions. A character with a strong personality and clear motives will easily win the sympathy of the player.
- Backstory: A carefully built past will create depth for the character. It explains why they act the way they do and creates an emotional connection with the player.
- In-game function: Character design must match the gameplay. Characters are not just for viewing, but must also support and enhance the player’s interactive experience.
Top 5 video game characters
Top 5 video game characters suitable for all time:
Super Mario Bros
Surely all of us were once fascinated by the adventures of two plumber brothers in Super Mario Bros. Released in 1985, this 2D game is not just a game, but a whole childhood sky and a global phenomenon, laying a solid foundation for the Nintendo empire. The side-scrolling gameplay seems simple but is strangely attractive. Do you remember the feeling of joy when eating a big mushroom, or discovering a secret area for the first time? That is the wonderful experience that Mario brings.
Super Mario Bros. is a revolution in the gaming industry with the “2D side-scrolling platform” mechanism, becoming the standard for countless successors. The success of the gameplay has turned the characters in the game into icons. Mario and Luigi quickly appeared in the list of the most favorite video game characters of all time. They are not only characters, but also pioneers, indispensable names when mentioning best game characters ranked.
Each level, from green grasslands to fiery castles, is meticulously designed to encourage players to explore. It is this serious investment that has affirmed Mario’s position, making him worthy of being one of the top video game characters with the greatest influence.
Minecraft 2D
If you have ever been fascinated by the 3D blocky world of Minecraft, but want to find a simpler, more compact experience, then Minecraft 2D is the “true love” for you. With experience analyzing many game genres, we realize that the success of this version comes from capturing the core element: creative freedom. Some features that make Minecraft always named in the top video game characters.
- Unique 2D graphics: A completely new perspective compared to the original 3D version, bringing a feeling of both familiarity and difference.
- The core gameplay remains intact: Players can still mine, build, and fight in a challenging 2D environment.
- Endless potential for adventure: A vast world always opens up new opportunities to explore, making each playthrough a unique experience.
In an increasingly complex gaming world, Minecraft 2D offers a streamlined yet engaging experience. Instead of focusing on developing top video game characters with complex backstories, the game empowers players to become the protagonists of their own adventures. This creates a deep connection, as every structure you build, every cave you explore is part of your own story.
In fact, the character Steve/Alex, despite being a simple model, has become one of the most iconic video game characters thanks to the freedom the game provides. Minecraft 2D continues that legacy in a new form.
Sonic the Hedgehog
In the world of 2D games, there are characters that have become icons, and Sonic the Hedgehog is definitely one of them- top video game characters of all time. The game retains the familiar 2D graphics that made Sonic famous, bringing us back to the nostalgic speed runs.
The gameplay is extremely simple: you just need to use the virtual keys on the left to help Sonic move and avoid obstacles, and the right key is to perform the signature jump or roll attack. The feeling of controlling Sonic to rush, collect each golden ring and dodge Dr. Eggman’s robots is still as exciting as ever.
Not only is Sonic one of the most popular characters in gaming history, he also brings a deep gameplay. In addition to the main game mode, the game also has a Time Attack mode for those who like to challenge speed. The fun, fast-paced background music and vivid sound effects every time you eat a ring or collide with an enemy are always the points that make this game always in the top video game characters.
Noita
Besides the familiar names above, Noita is also a 2D game in the top video game characters. If you are a die-hard fan of the 2D roguelike game genre, Noita is definitely a name that cannot be ignored. The game is built on an extremely ambitious idea: simulating physics at the pixel level. This means that everything in the game world, from liquids, gases, to rocks, reacts to each other logically.
Players not only fight with available magic but also have to take advantage of the surrounding environment to create advantages. You can melt ice to put out fires, or use electric shocks spread through water to destroy enemies.This mechanism requires players to have tactical thinking and a deep understanding of interactions in the game.
Noita doesn’t have the pre-built top video game characters like AAA games, but it gives players the power to create their own legends with each playthrough. Compared to famous game characters of all time, your characters in Noita may not be famous, but the journey you create for them is completely unique.
With challenging gameplay, high replay value, and vivid pixel-art graphics, Noita deserves to be a true 2d game for the skills and creativity of any gamer.
Fallout Shelter
Fallout Shelter, a product of the famous developer Bethesda Softworks, is proof that a 2D game can still make a big splash in a gaming universe. The game is a role-playing building genre, where players have full control over the direction of their community after the nuclear disaster: salvation or destruction. This freedom allows each player to create a unique story, turning the vault dwellers into a cast of top video game characters with their own personal touch.
The use of 2D graphics based on Vault Boy, one of the most popular characters in gaming history, was a genius decision. It not only creates a closeness to the Fallout series fans, but also makes the building gameplay intuitive and accessible. The balance between depth of choice and simplicity of operation is the key to Fallout Shelter creating an unforgettable experience that is worth exploring.
Conclusion
And that’s our list of the faces that have shaped the gaming world. Of course, every ranking of top video game characters is personal and there are bound to be names that you love but are absent. So who are your heroes? Which characters deserve a place on this list? Let us know what you think!
