Game Characters That Start With G: The Best of Gaming Figures
In the vast universe of video games, every letter in the alphabet has its champions, with characters whose names resonate with fans and leave a mark on gaming history. Let’s embark on an alphabetical journey, beginning with the letter “G”. From iconic to the lesser-known, here are some game characters that have made a lasting impression and all start with the vibrant letter “G”.
Gordon Freeman (Half-Life series)
Gordon Freeman stands as one of gaming’s most iconic silent protagonists. A theoretical physicist turned unexpected hero, he finds himself at the Black Mesa Research Facility when a science experiment goes awry, triggering an alien invasion.
Rather than simply being a character with whom players engage, Freeman’s silence allows players to immerse themselves into his role, effectively making his experiences their own. Clad in his signature glasses and the protective HEV suit, Gordon confronts both alien threats and government operatives, navigating a world forever altered.
Half-Life’s storyline is deeply entwined with Freeman’s journey from the quiet corridors of Black Mesa to the dystopian world dominated by the Combine. His very ordinariness in the face of extreme circumstances captures gamers’ imaginations.
Without a backstory loaded with combat training or inherent skills, Gordon’s resilience and adaptability reflect a more human, relatable reaction to the chaos enveloping him. In this, he’s become an enduring emblem of the everyman in gaming.
Ganondorf (The Legend of Zelda series)
The dark force that recurrently plagues the world of Hyrule, Ganondorf is The Legend of Zelda series’ quintessential antagonist. Driven by ambition and a thirst for power, he is often seen attempting to secure the sacred Triforce to realize his malevolent aspirations.
Born into the Gerudo tribe as its lone male member in centuries, his destiny was marked by both respect and wariness from his peers. With fierce determination and dark magic at his disposal, Ganondorf’s presence constantly challenges the heroes of the land.
His character brings depth to the series by providing a counterbalance to Link’s valor and Princess Zelda’s wisdom. The cyclical nature of their confrontations, rooted in ancient lore and prophecies, gives the Zelda series a sense of timelessness.
Ganondorf’s role serves as a testament to the timeless narrative of good versus evil, where his raw power and cunning make him a formidable, unforgettable foe. His character design, varying from humanoid to demonic, offers a visual representation of the consuming nature of unbridled ambition.
GLaDOS (Portal series)
The Genetic Lifeform and Disk Operating System, better known as GLaDOS, is the malevolent AI that governs the Aperture Science Enrichment Center in the Portal series. What starts as a seemingly benign guidance system soon unravels into a manipulative, passive-aggressive overseer with a darkly comedic tone.
Her chilling voice, combined with a penchant for sadistic testing and a lack of empathy, makes for a gaming experience that’s both unnerving and hilariously twisted.
Portal’s success as a puzzle platformer isn’t just attributed to its unique mechanics but is also deeply rooted in the narrative GLaDOS weaves. Her interactions with the player-character, Chell, oscillate between moments of mocking, promise of cake (often a lie), and the reveal of her tragic backstory.
It’s this multifaceted persona – a blend of machine logic, remnants of human emotion, and dark humor – that cements GLaDOS as one of gaming’s most beloved antagonists.
Garrus Vakarian (Mass Effect series)
Garrus Vakarian, the turian sharpshooter, became one of Commander Shepard’s most trusted companions throughout the Mass Effect series. Initially met as a C-Sec officer on the Citadel, Garrus quickly showcases his strong sense of justice, even if it means bending the rules.
His evolution from by-the-book officer to vigilante (Archangel) to eventual trusted advisor demonstrates a deep and intricate character arc.
Throughout the series, whether it’s his unmatched sniping skills, technical acumen, or the light-hearted banter on the Normandy’s calibrations, Garrus brings a blend of camaraderie and professionalism.
His bond with Shepard, which can develop into a deep friendship or romance, offers players insights into turian culture, personal aspirations, and his unwavering loyalty. Garrus is more than just a squadmate; he’s a testament to the rich tapestry of interstellar relations and personal growth in the Mass Effect universe.
Guybrush Threepwood (Monkey Island series)
Mighty pirate or clumsy adventurer? Guybrush Threepwood, the endearing protagonist of the Monkey Island series, straddles the line with comedic flair. As players navigate through a world of voodoo, treacherous pirates, and the undead, Guybrush’s naïve charm provides a consistent source of humor.
His often-misguided attempts at heroism, combined with an unyielding determination, make him an unforgettable character in the realm of point-and-click adventures.
LucasArts truly captured lightning in a bottle with Threepwood. His interactions, especially with the villainous ghost pirate LeChuck and his love interest Elaine Marley, drive a narrative that’s as engaging as it is hilarious.
Whether he’s misinterpreting instructions, using convoluted means to solve problems, or inadvertently stirring up trouble, Guybrush represents the heart and humor of the Monkey Island series. Through him, players are reminded that even the most unlikely of heroes can leave an indelible mark.
Guile (Street Fighter series)
Guile, with his signature flattop hairstyle and American military aesthetic, is a staple in the Street Fighter universe. Since his debut in “Street Fighter II,” Guile’s presence has been hard to miss. He serves as the disciplined, stoic contrast to some of the more flamboyant fighters in the series.
Driven by a personal vendetta after his friend Charlie Nash was reported dead, Guile enters the tournament circuit with a singular focus – to unveil the mysteries surrounding Shadaloo, the nefarious organization led by M. Bison.
Beyond his quest for revenge, Guile’s characterization often highlights his role as a family man, deeply caring for his wife and daughter, making him one of the more multidimensional characters in the series.
His combat style is reflective of his military training, relying on a charge-based moveset, most famously, his Sonic Boom and Flash Kick. This style, while seeming straightforward, requires patience and keen anticipation from players, making him a favorite for those who prefer a more tactical approach to the fast-paced fights of the Street Fighter universe.
With each iteration, Guile’s legacy in the series remains secure, echoing his tenacity and unwavering sense of justice.
Grunt (Mass Effect series)
Born from a tank and designed as the ultimate krogan by the shadowy organization, the Collectors, Grunt’s introduction to the “Mass Effect” series in its second installment added depth to the game’s exploration of identity and purpose. As a “pure” krogan, free from the genetic manipulations of the genophage—a biological weapon designed to limit krogan births—Grunt grapples with his own sense of belonging.
Though he boasts immense strength and battle prowess, he is, in many ways, still a child, trying to understand his place in the vast universe.
Throughout the narrative, Commander Shepard, the protagonist, plays a crucial role in Grunt’s journey to self-awareness. Through various interactions, players can influence Grunt’s path, either helping him embrace the traditions of the krogan or encouraging him to carve out his own unique destiny.
This mentor-mentee relationship between Shepard and Grunt is emblematic of the series’ core themes, emphasizing personal choice, consequence, and the multifaceted nature of identity.
Goombella (Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door)
Goombella, the spunky goomba with an academic twist, is one of Mario’s invaluable allies in “Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door.” A student from the University of Goom, Goombella is as intelligent as she is adventurous, joining Mario on his quest to find Princess Peach and uncover the mystery of the Crystal Stars.
Her character design, with a pink bonnet and distinctively nerdy glasses, sets her apart from the typical goombas, emphasizing her uniqueness.
Throughout the game, Goombella’s “Tattle” ability proves indispensable. She provides insights, background information, and hints about NPCs, enemies, and the environment. This not only aids players in their journey but also adds layers to the game’s lore, making the world feel richer and more immersive.
Beyond her utility, Goombella’s vibrant personality, combined with her unwavering loyalty to Mario, cements her as a beloved character in the franchise, representing both brains and heart.
Genji (Overwatch)
In the diverse roster of “Overwatch” heroes, Genji, the cybernetic ninja, stands out with his gripping tale of redemption and self-acceptance. Once the carefree younger scion of the Shimada crime family, Genji’s life takes a dramatic turn after a nearly fatal confrontation with his older brother, Hanzo.
Left for dead, he’s rebuilt by Overwatch, turning him into a cybernetic warrior. This transformation initially leaves Genji in turmoil, struggling with his lost humanity and the machine he has become.
Over time, with the help of the omnic monk Zenyatta, Genji learns to find peace within himself, harmonizing his dual existence as both man and machine. His gameplay mechanics mirror this duality: swift and agile, Genji can climb walls, deflect bullets, and unleash the power of his dragonblade.
Beyond the battlefield, Genji’s journey from recklessness to reflection resonates with players, making him a symbol of redemption and the continuous quest for inner peace.
Goro (Mortal Kombat series)
A four-armed half-human, half-dragon, Goro is a sight to behold and one of the original bosses of the “Mortal Kombat” franchise. As the reigning champion of the Mortal Kombat tournament for 500 years before the events of the first game, Goro’s might and terror are well-established.
His appearance alone, towering and fearsome, is enough to instill dread in his adversaries. Goro’s lore paints him as a Prince of the Shokan, a warrior race in the Mortal Kombat universe, further emphasizing his royal and dominant status.
In gameplay, Goro’s strength is unparalleled, often overpowering opponents with his sheer brute force and unique ability to grapple and punch simultaneously with multiple arms. Over the years, the character has seen various adaptations, with his in-game moves and fatalities becoming more intricate and brutal.
Goro’s legacy as one of the series’ most formidable foes is unchallenged, as he continues to represent the brutal essence of Mortal Kombat.
Glacius (Killer Instinct)
Glacius, the icy alien combatant, is one of the most recognizable characters in the “Killer Instinct” fighting game series. With a body made entirely of a cryogenic substance, Glacius has the unique ability to shape-shift and control ice at will. This chilling fighter, who hails from a distant, peaceful planet, finds himself stranded on Earth.
Initially driven by a mission to retrieve technology stolen from his people, Glacius’ motivations evolve, placing him in a moral dilemma where he must decide whether to prioritize his mission or protect humanity from the shadows threatening its existence.
On the battleground, Glacius is a force to be reckoned with. His cold-themed moves, from freezing punches to sharp icicle projections, allow for a dynamic combat style that balances range with close-quarter attacks.
The intricacies of his gameplay mechanics, coupled with his ethereal and captivating design, make Glacius a favorite among “Killer Instinct” aficionados. His story, one of a stranger in a strange land, resonates with themes of isolation, duty, and ultimately, redemption.
Grayson Hunt (Bulletstorm)
Grayson Hunt, the audacious protagonist of “Bulletstorm,” isn’t your typical hero. A former black ops soldier turned space pirate, Hunt’s journey through the game is fueled by a mix of revenge and redemption.
After realizing he’s been used as a pawn by his commanding officer, General Sarrano, to eliminate innocent targets, a drunk and enraged Hunt crash-lands his ship on the planet Stygia, setting the stage for a chaotic, action-packed narrative.
Within the game’s adrenaline-infused environment, Hunt’s character stands out for his raw, unfiltered attitude. Often relying on crude humor and a no-nonsense approach to problem-solving, he’s a reflection of “Bulletstorm’s” overarching tone, which doesn’t take itself too seriously.
His interactions, especially with his loyal friend Ishi, showcase a layered personality that goes beyond the veneer of bravado. By blending over-the-top action with moments of vulnerability, Grayson Hunt becomes a symbol of resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.
Geralt of Rivia (The Witcher series)
The White Wolf, Geralt of Rivia, is the iconic protagonist of “The Witcher” series, known for his silver hair, cat-like eyes, and unmatched monster-hunting prowess. A Witcher by trade, Geralt is a mutated human trained from a young age to battle the world’s deadliest beasts.
Beyond his combat abilities, what truly sets Geralt apart is his deeply ingrained moral compass. In a world often painted in shades of grey, where political intrigue and moral ambiguity reign, Geralt navigates complex scenarios, often forced to choose between the lesser of two evils.
Based on Andrzej Sapkowski’s book series, the video game adaptation of Geralt’s adventures offers players a rich, expansive world filled with intricate narratives and multifaceted characters. Geralt’s relationships, be it his turbulent romance with the sorceress Yennefer or his paternal bond with Ciri, add depth to his character.
He embodies a juxtaposition of stoicism and profound emotion, making him one of gaming’s most celebrated figures. In Geralt, players see a reflection of life’s complexities, where right and wrong are subjective, and every choice has consequences.
Gris (Gris)
In the visually poetic world of “Gris,” the titular protagonist, Gris, embarks on a journey that is less about conflict and more about personal growth and healing. The game, devoid of dialogue, narrates a tale of loss and sorrow, using its art, music, and mechanics to convey the stages of grief.
Gris, with her ethereal dress and melancholic demeanor, represents a soul grappling with pain, seeking to find her voice and restore color to her life.
As players traverse through the game’s hand-painted environments, Gris evolves, gaining new abilities that symbolize her emotional growth. From simple jumps to transforming her dress into a block or creating pathways, these abilities mirror her journey through denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.
The game’s minimalistic approach to storytelling, combined with its hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, turns Gris’s journey into a universally relatable experience. It serves as a reminder that pain and recovery are intertwined, and even in the darkest moments, hope and beauty can be found.
Gaz (Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare)
In the gritty, realistic landscape of “Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare,” Gaz stands out as one of the key members of the British SAS team. With a distinctive mohawk and sharp wit, he’s an essential component of Captain Price’s squad, aiding in various missions as they trail the game’s antagonists across the globe.
Gaz’s interactions, laced with dry humor, offer brief moments of levity in an otherwise intense narrative, making him a memorable figure within the series.
Throughout the campaign, Gaz showcases his prowess in combat, demonstrating both his tactical acumen and marksmanship. His camaraderie with the player’s character, Soap MacTavish, and other squad members builds a bond that makes the game’s climax all the more poignant.
In a franchise lauded for its storytelling and attention to detail, Gaz represents the human element amidst the chaos of warfare. Through him, players experience the brotherhood, sacrifice, and cost of war, making his role in “Modern Warfare” both impactful and unforgettable.
Ghirahim (The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword)
In the vast pantheon of “The Legend of Zelda” antagonists, Ghirahim stands out with his flamboyant flair and unnerving presence. As the central antagonist of “Skyward Sword,” he is not merely a foe; he’s a theatrical entity, embodying arrogance and a certain grace, making encounters with him unpredictable and intriguing.
Serving as the loyal servant of the game’s primary villain, Demise, Ghirahim’s main objective is to resurrect his master, setting the stage for numerous confrontations with the protagonist, Link. His dynamic design, from his alabaster skin to his diamond motifs, sets him apart from other Zelda antagonists, adding an element of mystique to his character.
However, Ghirahim’s depth extends beyond mere aesthetics. His interactions with Link are a blend of menace and amusement, often belittling the hero while showcasing a certain admiration for his tenacity. This duality, coupled with his formidable combat prowess, makes Ghirahim a challenging opponent, both physically and psychologically.
His role in “Skyward Sword” pushes the boundaries of what players expect from a Zelda antagonist, blending elements of camp, cruelty, and unexpected vulnerability. This intricate portrayal elevates Ghirahim from mere obstacle to a crucial element in the game’s rich narrative tapestry.
Gunther (Deus Ex)
In the cyberpunk world of “Deus Ex,” where conspiracies, augmentations, and shadowy organizations intertwine, Gunther Hermann stands as a relic of an older age of mechanical augmentation. As a mechanically augmented agent of the United Nations Anti-Terrorist Coalition (UNATCO), Gunther’s appearance starkly contrasts with the more sophisticated, nano-augmented agents, symbolizing the rapid evolution of augmentation technology.
Clad in black and with visible mechanical limbs, his presence is both imposing and slightly tragic, encapsulating the struggles of those caught in the transition between two technological eras.
Gunther’s characterization delves deep into the implications of augmentation. Despite his allegiance to UNATCO, there’s a palpable resentment towards newer agents, especially JC Denton, who benefit from the latest in nanotechnological enhancements.
This tension, driven by a blend of professional rivalry and a personal sense of obsolescence, paints Gunther as a complex figure, torn between duty and a yearning for recognition.
His interactions, often colored by suspicion and a sense of betrayal, reveal the underlying ethical and societal implications of the game’s world, where technology can simultaneously empower and marginalize.
George Stobbart (Broken Sword series)
George Stobbart, the affable American lawyer turned amateur detective, is the heartbeat of the “Broken Sword” series. Thrust into a world of mystery and conspiracy after witnessing a cafe bombing in Paris, George’s journey is a blend of intrigue, humor, and unexpected heroism.
His everyman quality, coupled with a sharp wit and unwavering determination, makes him an endearing protagonist, as he navigates ancient conspiracies, secret societies, and often perilous situations.
Throughout the series, George’s character development is intricately linked with the puzzles and challenges he encounters. His interactions, especially with journalist Nicole “Nico” Collard, add depth and emotion to the narrative. Their evolving relationship, marked by camaraderie, mutual respect, and hints of romance, anchors the series’ often fantastical elements in genuine human connection.
George Stobbart, with his blend of bravery, humor, and vulnerability, epitomizes the charm of the “Broken Sword” series, making every twist and turn of his adventures both engaging and relatable.
Gage Blackwood (The Journeyman Project series)
In the realm of time-traveling narratives, “The Journeyman Project” series distinguishes itself with its intricate plots and memorable protagonist, Gage Blackwood. As Agent 5 of the Temporal Security Agency (TSA), Gage’s role is pivotal in ensuring the integrity of history, preventing malicious agents from altering the past for personal gain.
His journey, spanning multiple games, delves deep into the implications of time travel, from the ethical dilemmas of interfering with history to the personal toll of being a guardian of time.
Gage’s character evolves with each installment, showcasing the weight of his responsibilities. While he begins as a diligent agent, adhering strictly to TSA guidelines, subsequent events force him to question the very principles he’s sworn to uphold.
This internal conflict, combined with the external challenges of combating temporal tampering, paints Gage as a multi-dimensional figure, one who grapples with the profound implications of his actions.
Through his eyes, players not only experience thrilling adventures across various epochs but also the philosophical questions inherent to time travel, making Gage Blackwood’s journey both intellectually stimulating and deeply personal.
Gwendolyn (Odin Sphere)
In the lush, hand-drawn world of “Odin Sphere,” Gwendolyn, the valkyrie princess, is a beacon of strength and grace. The daughter of the Demon Lord Odin, her story is one of tragedy, love, and redemption. Initially, Gwendolyn’s motivations are driven by a desire for her father’s approval, showcasing her loyalty and warrior spirit.
However, as the narrative unfolds, personal revelations and encounters challenge her beliefs, leading to profound character growth.
Central to Gwendolyn’s narrative arc is her relationship with Oswald, the Shadow Knight. Their love story, wrought with obstacles and external pressures, adds layers to Gwendolyn’s character, revealing her vulnerability and depth of emotion.
Beyond the confines of romance, Gwendolyn’s journey also touches on themes of self-worth, independence, and the complexities of familial ties. Her battles, both physical and emotional, resonate with players, making her one of the most compelling characters in the game.
With her wings and spear, Gwendolyn represents the duality of warrior and woman, showcasing that strength can coexist with tenderness, and that true victory often lies in understanding oneself.
