Mono rescues Six from the horrors of their world, and the two form a silent, cooperative pact to survive its many dangers. Their teamwork introduces new puzzle-solving dynamics, with Mono even fighting back against the monstrous inhabitants. This partnership completely changes the series' formula, building towards a final, devastating twist. | © Supermassive Games
On the brink of divorce, May and Cody are magically trapped inside their daughter's dolls and forced to repair their broken relationship. Their journey is a chaotic and hilarious co-op adventure where they must relearn how to work together. By overcoming inventive obstacles, this frustrated couple slowly rediscovers the love that originally brought them together. | © Hazelight Studios
Leon's mission to rescue the president's daughter, Ashley, forges a partnership built on slowly earned trust. Their bond deepens as they survive the horrors of the Las Plagas parasite and the cult that wields it. By the end of their ordeal, the two share a strong, hard-won connection, making even their wacky costume adventures feel deserved. | © Capcom
Booker DeWitt’s mission to rescue the imprisoned Elizabeth quickly evolves into a partnership defined by her reality-bending “tears.” Their journey through the skies of Columbia is filled with spectacular combat, but it’s their deeply intertwined fate that truly captivates. The stunning twist that concludes their story redefines everything you thought you knew about their connection. | © Irrational Games
Their journey began with a shared loss, forcing the stern Kratos to guide his son, Atreus, through a dangerous world. While the shocking revelation of Atreus's true identity as Loki created a rift, their bond was ultimately reforged through struggle. This evolution from a distant father-son relationship into a complex partnership forms the emotional core of their story. | © Jetpack Interactive
Nate and Sully's partnership goes far beyond treasure hunting, with the seasoned rogue acting as a mentor and father figure to the young adventurer. Their bond is built on witty banter and hard-earned trust, surviving every bad decision and double-cross. Through it all, they ultimately help each other discover that family is the greatest treasure. | © Naughty Dog
Across countless eras and timelines, Link and Zelda are forever destined to find one another to save Hyrule. Their relationship has evolved from a simple rescue mission into a deeply layered partnership, sometimes even hinting at romance. No matter the incarnation, they remain eternally bound to each other and the fate of their world. | © Nintendo
Trained together since childhood, Ryu and Ken share a bond forged through decades of friendly rivalry. While Ryu often proves to be the stronger fighter, he relies on Ken to keep him sharp and grounded. Their legendary friendship, symbolized by the gifted headband, remains as strong as ever. | © Capcom
Master Chief is the strong, silent soldier, while Cortana is the witty and brilliant AI who guides him. They balance each other perfectly, forming a bond where the machine feels more human than the man. It's this unique partnership that makes them one of gaming's most iconic duos. | © Bungie
Marcus and Dom embody the ultimate battle-hardened bromance, communicating more with grunts and shared rage than with words. Their bond is a classic, macho camaraderie where a chainsaw is as much a tool as a handshake. They would never admit it, but their loyalty runs deeper than any battlefield trench. | © Epic Games
Sonic's incredible speed is perfectly complemented by Tails' unique ability to fly him over any obstacle. Unlike many sidekicks, the two-tailed fox genuinely earns his place by seamlessly integrating into the high-speed action. Their partnership is so natural that Tails feels absolutely essential to the franchise. | © Paramount Pictures
Lee and Clementine form a profoundly touching bond born from the desperation of the zombie apocalypse. As a convicted man with no obligation to help, Lee chooses to protect the resourceful young girl simply because it's the right thing to do. Their surrogate father-daughter relationship becomes one of gaming's most meaningful and tragically beautiful stories. | © Square Enix
Mario and Luigi are the ultimate pair of brothers, always ready for their next adventure, whether it's on the racetrack, the tennis court, or a quest to rescue a princess. Their boundless enthusiasm for any activity is matched only by their genuine enjoyment of each other's company. This cheerful camaraderie makes them a truly iconic and endlessly fun duo to follow. | © Nintendo
Jak and Daxter perfectly embody the classic straight and funny man duo, with the silent, determined hero balanced by his ottsel companion. While Jak handles the heavy fighting, Daxter proves his worth by squeezing into tight spots and providing much-needed comic relief. Their bond is deepened by a shared history, as Jak's guilt over Daxter's transformation fuels his determination to find a cure. | © Naughty Dog
Initially brought together by desperation, Joel and Ellie push past their shared isolation to form one of gaming's most powerful bonds. Their journey transforms them from reluctant travel companions into a fiercely protective, near-mythic duo. This obsessive reliance ultimately leads Joel to make a world-altering choice, valuing the life of his surrogate daughter above the fate of all humanity. | © Naughty Dog
Great characters can define a game, but the best ones often come with a perfect partner. These iconic duos, whether bound by friendship, family, or fate, elevate their stories into something truly special. Let's count down the fifteen pairs that left a permanent mark on gaming.
