Game Characters That Start With M: The Best of Gaming Figures

Video games have introduced us to a vast universe of characters, each with their own unique personalities, stories, and designs. Among the alphabet, the letter ‘M’ has its fair share of iconic figures that have made their mark in the gaming world. From mighty warriors to mischievous mascots, let’s delve into some of the most memorable game characters that start with the letter ‘M’.

Mario (Super Mario Series)

Mario, the iconic Italian plumber, stands as not only the face of Nintendo but as one of the most recognizable figures in video game history. Born out of the mind of Shigeru Miyamoto, Mario debuted in the arcade classic “Donkey Kong” before getting his eponymous series.

Over the years, he has transcended beyond his original occupation, taking on the roles of a hero, a racer, a sportsman, and even a doctor. The Super Mario series, with its colorful worlds, innovative gameplay mechanics, and a delightful cast of characters, has captured the hearts of millions.

From rescuing Princess Peach from the clutches of the nefarious Bowser to racing on the tracks of Mario Kart, this versatile character never ceases to entertain.

His influence is undeniable, with a legacy that spans more than three decades, numerous spin-offs, and countless adventures across both two and three-dimensional realms.

Mega Man (Mega Man Series)

Born as Rock in a world teetering between humans and robotic beings, Mega Man is the embodiment of hope and resilience. The creation of Dr. Light, this blue robot was designed with a heart and the capacity to make human-like decisions.

When Dr. Wily turned benign robots into machines of destruction, Rock volunteered to be transformed into Mega Man, a super fighting robot. His main power? The ability to absorb the abilities of defeated foes, adapting and growing stronger with every battle.

The Mega Man series, with its challenging platforming and unique boss battles, presents a cyclical narrative of battling corruption, upholding justice, and evolving.

Throughout his various iterations, be it the classic series, X, Battle Network, or Legends, Mega Man remains a symbol of determination against overwhelming odds.

Master Chief (Halo Series)

Wearing the Mjolnir armor and often shrouded in mystery, Master Chief Petty Officer John-117, commonly known as Master Chief, is the stoic super-soldier protagonist of the Halo series.

Created under the Spartan-II program, his imposing physical prowess, combined with his tactical brilliance, places him among the galaxy’s elite warriors. As humanity’s last line of defense against the religious zealotry of the Covenant and the existential threat of the Flood, his battles span across vast alien ringworlds, ancient structures, and even Earth itself.

The Halo series, under Bungie and later 343 Industries, has explored not only the vast cosmic warfare but also the more profound aspects of artificial intelligence, friendship, and purpose.

Through Master Chief’s interactions with his AI companion Cortana, players witness the deeper vulnerabilities and humanity of this seemingly invincible warrior.

Morrigan (Dragon Age Series)

Enigmatic and draped in the shadows of ancient magic, Morrigan is one of the most complex characters in BioWare’s Dragon Age series. Introduced in “Dragon Age: Origins,” she is a Witch of the Wilds, a sorceress who lives outside the realm of traditional Thedosian societies.

Although initially perceived as cold and self-serving, her interactions with the protagonist reveal layers of depth, vulnerabilities, and a keen intelligence. Her understanding of blood magic and the ancient lore of the land plays a pivotal role throughout the series, particularly concerning the enigmatic Old Gods and the ever-present Blight.

The Dragon Age games often explore the delicate balance between power and its costs, and in Morrigan, players witness the personal journey of someone bound by legacy, ambition, and the quest for understanding in a world teetering on the brink of chaos.

Marcus Fenix (Gears of War Series)

Burdened by the weight of war and the scars of battles past, Marcus Fenix is the brooding protagonist of the Gears of War series. As a soldier of the COG army, Marcus’s life is defined by the relentless battle against the subterranean menace known as the Locust Horde.

With chainsaw bayonets, shattered cities, and a post-apocalyptic landscape, the series showcases war’s brutalities, and at its center is Marcus – a man torn between duty, friendship, and personal loss.

His relationship with fellow soldiers, especially his best friend Dom Santiago, underscores the human elements of loyalty and sacrifice in a world ravaged by conflict. Through Marcus’s eyes, players navigate the challenges of leadership, the ethics of warfare, and the true cost of survival.

In the battle-scarred landscapes of Sera, Marcus’s resilience and determination remind players of the human spirit’s indomitable nature amidst overwhelming adversity.

Max Payne (Max Payne Series)

In the rain-soaked alleyways of New York City’s underworld, the tale of Max Payne stands as a testament to tragedy, vengeance, and redemption. The eponymous protagonist of the Max Payne series finds himself dragged into a maelstrom of crime and corruption following the brutal murder of his wife and daughter.

It’s a narrative drenched in noir sensibilities, with Max’s internal monologue providing players with poetic insights into his tortured psyche. Bullet-time, a pioneering gameplay mechanic introduced in the series, allows players to experience gunfights with cinematic flair and dramatic weight, underscoring Max’s relentless pursuit of justice and his descent into the abyss.

The series tackles themes of addiction, both to substances and to vengeance, as Max navigates a treacherous path, grappling with his demons, and seeking a semblance of peace in a world that seems determined to deny him any.

Mei (Overwatch)

Mei-Ling Zhou, better known by her codename Mei, is the optimistic and resourceful climatologist from Blizzard’s popular team-based shooter, Overwatch. Armed with her trusty Endothermic Blaster, she manipulates ice and cold to protect her teammates and freeze adversaries in their tracks.

More than her skills on the battlefield, Mei’s backstory reveals a tale of hope and determination. After a catastrophic weather anomaly, Mei finds herself as the sole survivor of her research team in Antarctica.

Undeterred, she takes on the mantle of preserving the environment and unraveling the causes behind Earth’s deteriorating ecosystem. Her optimistic spirit and unwavering determination, juxtaposed against the often grim backdrop of Overwatch’s lore, make Mei a beacon of hope and resilience in a world grappling with uncertainty.

Mewtwo (Pokémon Series)

In the vast pantheon of Pokémon, Mewtwo stands as an emblem of mankind’s ambition and its unintended consequences. Created from the DNA of Mew, one of the rarest and most powerful Pokémon, Mewtwo embodies the perils of genetic manipulation.

Its introduction in the original Pokémon Red and Blue games presented players with a powerful yet deeply conflicted creature, struggling with its own existence and its place in the world. With psychic abilities that are second to none, Mewtwo’s lore explores the ethical quandaries of creation, identity, and purpose.

Over the years, through games, movies, and other media, Mewtwo’s character has evolved, shedding light on its vulnerabilities, its quest for understanding, and its ultimate search for peace in a world it never asked to be a part of.

Mileena (Mortal Kombat Series)

Emerging from the dark realms of Outworld, Mileena is the deadly and seductive assassin of the Mortal Kombat series. Crafted through sorcery and genetic engineering as the twin of Princess Kitana, her beauty is juxtaposed against her feral nature, revealed by her Tarkatan blood which gives her razor-sharp teeth.

Mileena’s narrative is one of identity, ambition, and rivalry. Hungry for power and acceptance, her schemes often revolve around seizing the throne of Outworld. Yet, beneath her brutal exterior lies a character grappling with issues of self-worth and a longing for validation.

The Mortal Kombat series, known for its brutal fatalities and rich lore, presents Mileena as a multi-dimensional character, oscillating between her roles as a formidable antagonist and a tragic figure, forever ensnared by her origins.

Marth (Fire Emblem Series)

In the annals of tactical role-playing games, Marth stands as a pioneering figure, heralding the legacy of the Fire Emblem series. As the prince of Altea, Marth’s journey begins with exile, matures through challenges, and culminates in his ascension as a legendary hero.

Wielding the Falchion, a blade of legends, Marth must navigate a complex political landscape, facing betrayals, forging alliances, and leading his loyal band of heroes against the shadowy forces that threaten his homeland.

The Fire Emblem games, celebrated for their intricate storylines and character-driven narratives, place Marth at the center of a tale that grapples with themes of leadership, sacrifice, and destiny.

His enduring popularity, further amplified by his inclusion in the Super Smash Bros. series, cements Marth’s status as a quintessential figure in the storied tapestry of gaming lore.

Miranda Lawson (Mass Effect Series)

Miranda Lawson, the genetically-engineered perfection from BioWare’s space opera, the Mass Effect series, is a complex blend of precision, loyalty, and vulnerability.

Crafted by the elusive and morally ambiguous Illusive Man, Miranda’s genetic makeup is designed to be flawless, yet beneath her immaculate exterior lies a tangle of personal struggles. From her fraught relationship with her father to her protective instincts for her sister, Oriana, Miranda’s journey is about more than just the fight against the looming Reaper threat.

She grapples with her sense of self-worth, questioning if her abilities and achievements are genuinely hers or merely the result of her engineered genes.

The Mass Effect saga, celebrated for its rich character development and intricate narrative web, portrays Miranda as a character caught between the cold expectations of perfection and the warmth of human emotion.

Mad Moxxi (Borderlands Series)

Mad Moxxi, the vivacious and tantalizing hostess from Gearbox’s Borderlands series, is as much a symbol of Pandora’s wild spirit as she is of its resilience. With her cabaret-inspired attire and sultry demeanor, Moxxi may first appear as mere eye-candy, but delving deeper reveals a character of strength, intelligence, and surprising depth.

Operating various establishments across Pandora, from bars to combat arenas, Moxxi’s influence is ubiquitous. Yet, amidst the gunfights and Vault Hunter exploits, Moxxi’s role as a mother and her tumultuous romantic past bring a rich texture to her character.

In the chaotic, often brutal world of Borderlands, Mad Moxxi stands out as a beacon of persistence, using both her wits and charm to navigate and master the challenges of Pandora’s unforgiving landscape.

M’aiq the Liar (The Elder Scrolls Series)

M’aiq the Liar, the enigmatic Khajiit, has become something of a legend in Bethesda’s expansive Elder Scrolls universe. Appearing in multiple games of the series, M’aiq offers players cryptic insights, often breaking the fourth wall and providing commentary that ranges from humorous to philosophical.

Though his title labels him as a liar, discerning players will often find truths, Easter eggs, and nods to the wider Elder Scrolls lore and even game development intricacies within his musings. M’aiq serves as a delightful bridge between the game developers and players, providing a wink and nudge, reminding players of the constructed nature of the world they’re immersed in.

In a universe filled with dragons, Daedric Princes, and epic quests, M’aiq the Liar offers a pause for reflection, humor, and a unique connection to the world beyond Tamriel’s borders.

Midna (The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess)

In the vast lore of Hyrule, few characters have captivated players’ hearts like Midna from “The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.” Introduced as a diminutive, shadowy figure bound to assist Link, Midna’s true nature and her connection to the Twilight Realm unravel as the story progresses.

Her initial aloofness and mischievous demeanor give way to reveal a character of depth, strength, and sacrifice. Her dynamic with Link evolves from mere convenience to deep mutual trust and camaraderie.

The game’s narrative beautifully weaves her transformation from a cursed imp to her true, regal form, mirroring her internal journey from vengeance to noble responsibility.

In the pantheon of Zelda characters, Midna stands out not just for her pivotal role in Twilight Princess but for her complex, multi-faceted character arc that resonates deeply with players.

Ms. Pac-Man (Ms. Pac-Man)

Emerging during the golden age of arcades, Ms. Pac-Man stands tall as an icon of video game history. Introduced as a sequel to the wildly popular Pac-Man, Ms. Pac-Man wasn’t merely a gender-swapped version of the original but brought innovations in gameplay, design, and complexity.

With her red bow and chasing fruit, she quickly became a beloved figure, exemplifying the evolving landscape of video games in the early ’80s. Beyond the mazes, ghosts, and cherries, Ms. Pac-Man represented an early nod towards inclusivity in the predominantly male-dominated realm of video games.

She transcends her pixelated realm, serving as a nostalgic symbol of a simpler gaming era and a testament to the timeless appeal of well-designed, challenging, and engaging gameplay.

Merle (The Walking Dead Game)

In the post-apocalyptic world of Telltale’s “The Walking Dead Game”, characters are often tested beyond their limits, facing moral quandaries and life-or-death situations that define them.

Merle Dixon, originally from the “The Walking Dead” television series, is no exception. Portrayed as a complex, often divisive figure, Merle’s rough exterior and unpredictable nature often clash with the group’s dynamics.

His loyalty to his younger brother, Daryl, is a cornerstone of his character, providing moments of vulnerability amidst his otherwise rugged demeanor.

This loyalty, juxtaposed with his abrasive personality and sometimes ruthless decisions, crafts a character that embodies the moral ambiguities and personal complexities of surviving in a world overrun by the undead.

Malak (Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic)

Darth Malak, the formidable Sith Lord antagonist of BioWare’s “Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic”, looms large over the galaxy as a symbol of power, betrayal, and ambition.

Once a Jedi named Alek, his transformation into Malak follows a journey to the Dark Side alongside his close friend and eventual rival, Revan. His decision to betray Revan and assume control of the Sith fleet showcases his hunger for power and his tactical acumen.

As players navigate the rich narrative of the game, Malak’s presence serves as a constant reminder of the thin line between the Light and Dark sides of the Force, and the personal costs and ramifications of choices made in the vast expanse of a galaxy at war.

Mike Haggar (Final Fight Series)

Muscle-bound and with a strong sense of justice, Mike Haggar stands out as a beacon of hope in the crime-ridden streets of Metro City in Capcom’s “Final Fight” series.

A former professional wrestler turned mayor, Haggar isn’t your typical politician. When his daughter is kidnapped by the Mad Gear Gang, Haggar takes matters into his own hands, literally.

With his wrestling moves and indomitable spirit, he fights his way through waves of enemies, showcasing both his physical prowess and his unwavering dedication to justice.

In a genre dominated by fighters and martial artists, Haggar’s blend of political responsibility and hands-on action provides a fresh, memorable perspective on the classic beat ’em up formula.

Manny Calavera (Grim Fandango)

In the neon-lit, jazz-infused underworld of “Grim Fandango”, players are introduced to Manny Calavera, a travel agent for the deceased, helping souls journey to their eternal rest. But Manny isn’t just any skeleton in a suit; he’s a protagonist filled with charm, wit, and a sense of righteousness.

As he uncovers corruption in the Department of Death, his quest evolves from securing a better job to a full-blown adventure filled with mystery, love, and redemption.

With its film noir aesthetics and unique Day of the Dead inspirations, “Grim Fandango” paints a world that’s both familiar and surreal, with Manny standing at its heart, navigating its complexities with humor and heart.

Mimir (God of War Series)

The Norse world of the “God of War” series is replete with gods, monsters, and legends, but few characters offer the wisdom, humor, and unique perspective of Mimir, the severed head companion to Kratos and Atreus.

Often referred to as “The Smartest Man Alive”, Mimir’s vast knowledge of the realms and its inhabitants provides invaluable guidance to the father-son duo. But beyond his role as a guide, Mimir’s tales, anecdotes, and interactions breathe life into the game’s lore, offering players insights into the nuanced world of Norse mythology.

His dynamic with Kratos, ranging from respectful to playfully sarcastic, adds depth to the game’s narrative, showcasing that even in a world of gods and giants, the stories and relationships of its characters truly make it come alive.