20 Video Game Side Characters That Got Their Own Game

Princess Peach – Princess Peach: Showtime! (2024)

For years, Princess Peach has been Mario’s damsel in distress (aside from a token role reversal in 2005's Super Princess Peach), but Princess Peach: Showtime! (2024) flips that narrative on its head by placing her in the starring role of her own adventure. This vibrant, action-packed game sees Peach take center stage as she enters a grand theater to rescue a kidnapped friend. Not only does she use her signature style and grace to solve puzzles and navigate the world, but she also takes on different theatrical personas to tackle unique challenges. From martial arts to detective work, Peach proves she’s capable of much more than simply waiting for someone to save her. The game’s creative mechanics, fun levels, and Peach’s charm make it clear: she’s more than just a side character in the Mario franchise – she’s a hero in her own right. | © Nintendo

Alyx – Half-Life: Alyx (2020)

Alyx Vance was never just a sidekick in Half-Life – considering protagonist Gordon Freedman's muteness, she was kind of the heart and soul of the franchise. In Half-Life: Alyx (2020), however, she steps fully into the limelight as the protagonist, driving players through a gripping story in virtual reality. No longer just the clever companion to Gordon Freeman, Alyx’s sharp wit, resourcefulness, and emotional depth steal the show as she battles alien forces and uncovers a powerful conspiracy. This shift in perspective offered an incredible opportunity for players to connect with her on a deeper level. The game doesn’t just give us more of the world we've come to love – it gives us a fresh look at a character who’s been an integral part of the series, showing that even a side character can carry a VR experience that’s both immersive and heartfelt. | © Valve

Specter Knight – Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment (2017)

What happens when a villain gets a game of their own? Standalone DLC campaign Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment (2017) is proof that it can lead to something extraordinary. Specter Knight, once a menacing antagonist in Shovel Knight (2014), transforms into the antihero protagonist in his own action-packed adventure. As players delve into his backstory, they uncover a tale of tragedy, ambition, and redemption. Specter Knight’s unique scythe-based combat and swift movement through levels add fresh mechanics that stand out from the original game’s gameplay. This prequel brings not only an exciting new perspective but also a deeper, more humanized version of a character once feared. Specter Knight isn’t just a villain anymore – he’s a complex and compelling hero in his own right. | © Yacht Club Games

Goro Majima – Yakuza 0 (2015)

When you think of Yakuza, you think of Kazuma Kiryu – but then there’s Goro Majima, the unpredictable, chaotic force that steals the spotlight in Yakuza 0 (2015). Majima wasn’t always the primary focus of the series, but this prequel offers a look into his past, showing how he became the wild, flamboyant character we love. It’s an origin story, yes, but it’s also a rollercoaster ride filled with absurdity, humor, and serious depth. As Majima’s life unfolds, players are drawn into his internal struggle – torn between his chaotic personality and his sense of honor. It’s clear that Majima is more than just a side character; he’s a man of contradictions, and Yakuza 0 (2015) is his chance to prove it. | © Sega

Tails – Tails Adventure (1995)

The two-tailed fox introduced as a sidekick in Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (1992) turns out to be capable of more than just messing up the player's score in the bonus stages: In Tails Adventure (1995), the titular rodent shows his prowess as a mechanic and inventor by deploying all sorts of creative weaponry. Having to free Cocoa Island from an invasion by the Kukku Army in this Metroid-like 2D platformer not only fleshes out Tails' character and moveset, it makes players appreciate the little guy way more on his own. There were of course other Tails-specific games, but Tails' Skypatrol (1995) was clearly only rebranded to feature the flying fox later in development and thus doesn't really count and for Tails and the Music Maker (1994)... Well, the less said, the better.

Raiden – Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance (2013)

Raiden first took the spotlight in Metal Gear Solid 2 (2001), but Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance (2013) changes everything by presenting the character with an all-new approach. Now a cyborg ninja with a thirst for justice, Raiden’s story in Revengeance is nothing short of electrifying. Gone are the stealth mechanics of the original series; here, it’s all about high-speed sword combat and high-octane action. As Raiden slices through enemies with his katana, the game delivers a narrative filled with philosophical questions, moral dilemmas, and plenty of chaos. | © Konami

Baird and Cole – Gears of War: Judgment (2013)

While Marcus Fenix was the face of the Gears of War franchise, Baird and Cole were never far behind, providing comic relief and serious firepower throughout the series. In Spin-Off Gears of War: Judgment (2013) however, these two fan favorites finally get a chance to lead the charge. Set in the early days of the Locust War, the game explores their backstory, giving players more insight into their personalities and bond. Cole’s over-the-top enthusiasm and Baird’s sarcastic wit shine through in every mission, making it clear that these two are more than just sidekicks. Whether they’re cracking jokes or saving the day, Baird and Cole bring their own unique brand of humor and heart to the battlefield, proving that even side characters can handle the heat of their own story. | © Epic Games

Cropped Miles Edgeworth Ace Attorney Investigations

Miles Edgeworth – Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth (2009)

In the Ace Attorney series, Miles Edgeworth is often seen as the prosecutor opposing Phoenix Wright, but he’s far more than just a villain in a suit. Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth (2009) gives players the chance to follow him on a journey of investigation and self-discovery. No longer confined to the courtroom, Miles takes the lead in solving complex cases, proving that his sharp mind and unwavering dedication to justice make him an ideal protagonist as well. Throughout the game, players uncover more about Edgeworth’s inner conflicts, motivations, and personal growth, all of which are elaborated on in Ace Attorney Investigations 2: Prosecutor's Gambit (2011), with both games turning his personal motivation into a rich, multifaceted story. | © Capcom

Zack Fair – Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII (2007)

Before Cloud Strife became the iconic face of Final Fantasy VII (1997), Zack Fair was the one leading the charge of the Shinra Corporation's SOLDIER group. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII (2007) brings Zack’s story to the forefront, allowing players to experience his journey from a promising young warrior to the tragic hero who paved the way for Cloud’s story. As the protagonist, Zack’s character is filled with charisma, strength, and heart, offering a deeper understanding of the events that shaped the world of Final Fantasy VII (1997) and the many other games that elaborated on it. With fast-paced action combat and an emotionally charged narrative, Crisis Core (2007) gives Zack the spotlight he deserves, showing players that the road to becoming a hero is never as simple as it seems. | © Square Enix

Daxter – Daxter (2006)

If you’ve ever thought that Daxter’s role as Jak’s sidekick in the Jak & Daxter franchise was underrated, Daxter (2006) is here to prove you wrong. This action-packed spin-off puts the titular otter-weasel hybrid front and center, as he embarks on a quest to rescue his friend Jak, who’s been imprisoned. Known for his wit and comedic timing, Daxter’s vibrant personality steals the show as he navigates through a series of platforming levels filled with quirky challenges. The game’s light-hearted nature doesn’t mask the fact that Daxter is a true hero in his own right – his courage, resourcefulness, and humor are what make him unforgettable. The transition from sidekick to protagonist allows players to experience a more personal side of this lovable ottsel, making it clear that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones we least expect. | © Naughty Dog

Tingle – Tingle’s Rosy Rupeeland (2006)

Tingle has always been one of the most bizarre and memorable characters in The Legend of Zelda universe. In 2006's Tingle’s Rosy Rupeeland (as well as three subsequent Japan-exclusive Tingle titles), he takes center stage in a game that’s as eccentric as the character himself. Rather than being the quirky mapmaker, Tingle embarks on an oddball adventure to collect rupees in a colorful, strange world. With his signature green tights and bizarre mannerisms, Tingle’s quest is a far cry from the heroic journeys seen in Zelda, but that’s what makes it so unique. Filled with puzzle-solving, exploration, and plenty of rupee-hunting, the game showcases Tingle in all his bizarre glory. It’s a weird but wonderfully offbeat experience that proves even the most unconventional side characters can carry a story of their own. | © Nintendo

Shadow The Hedgehog – Shadow The Hedgehog (2005)

No longer just a mysterious side character to Sonic, Shadow the Hedgehog steps into his own game, and let’s just say – things get a lot darker. In Shadow The Hedgehog (2005), our anti-hero goes from being a supporting figure to a fully fleshed-out protagonist, battling his demons both literally and figuratively. Armed with chaos powers, a motorcycle and a surprising arsenal of firearms, Shadow is given the freedom to make his own choices in a branching story. This title explores his complex past, giving him a chance to break free from Sonic’s shadow (pun intended) and claim his own destiny. The game – for as unfinished and tone-deaf as it was – provided a richer narrative for the character, which was recently concluded in the much better Sonic x Shadow Generations (2024). | © SEGA

Zero – Mega Man Zero (2002)

Zero was always one of the coolest characters in the Mega Man universe, but it wasn’t until the Mega Man Zero games (with the ensuing entries up to the confusingly-named Mega Man Zero 4 in 2005) that he was truly allowed to lead the charge. Once a sidekick to X in the Mega Man X series, Zero is now front and center in this action-packed game, swinging his mighty Z-Saber through intense levels filled with enemies. With a rich storyline set over a century after the X titles building upon his tragic backstory, Zero is no longer just a sidekick – he’s a warrior with complex emotional depth and a strong sense of duty. The game’s futuristic setting, paired with fast-paced gameplay, makes this transition from supporting character to main protagonist one that’s exciting, memorable, and more than worthy of its own franchise. | © Capcom

Rebecca Chambers – Resident Evil Zero (2002)

In Resident Evil Zero (2002), Rebecca Chambers proves she’s not just a side character left to patch up wounds. Paired with Billy Coen, Rebecca takes the lead in this prequel, and what an adventure it is! The game provides insight into the early days of the Resident Evil outbreak, with Rebecca’s survival instincts and medical expertise proving invaluable as the duo battles terrifying biohazards. With Resident Evil Zero (2002), we see Rebecca evolve from a rookie cop into a capable, determined survivor – no longer the secondary character, but a protagonist in her own right. The horror of the Resident Evil world has never felt more personal than through her eyes. | © Capcom

Luigi – Luigi’s Mansion (2001)

After decades of not offering much in terms of his own personality, Luigi finally shed his role as a mere player-2-Mario-clone in Luigi’s Mansion, and it’s a surprisingly charming and spooky experience. Mario’s often overshadowed younger brother takes on the challenge of rescuing his sibling, armed only with a vacuum cleaner courtesy of mad scientist E. Gadd and his wits. The game’s ghost-hunting mechanics and puzzles show that Luigi is more than just a sidekick. During the course of the series, he goes from exploring one haunted house in Luigi's Mansion (2001) to multiple haunted locales in Luigi's Mansion 2 (2012) to a haunted hotel in Luigi's Mansion 3 (2019). While Mario is always the brave hero, Luigi’s unique blend of cowardice and courage adds a refreshing dynamic to his haunted adventures. This spin-off series not only explores Luigi’s personality in a way that the main series never could, but it also proved that Luigi could easily hold his own in a starring role. | © Nintendo

Tron Bonne – The Misadventures of Tron Bonne (1999)

Tron Bonne might have been a supporting antagonist in the Mega Man Legends games, but in The Misadventures of Tron Bonne (1999), she takes center stage – and the result is wonderfully chaotic. Set in a world of treasure hunting and robot battles, Tron embarks on a quirky, offbeat adventure with her loyal Servbots. Rather than sticking to the villainous role, this game explores her complex personality, showing a more humorous and driven side to her character. With unique puzzle-solving mechanics and action sequences, the game offers an engaging, lighthearted experience. Tron’s transformation from side villain to leading lady proves that sometimes, the most interesting characters are the ones you least expect to take the lead. | © Capcom

Sub-Zero – Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero (1997)

No longer just a chilling fighter in Mortal Kombat, Sub-Zero is thrust into the spotlight in Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero (1997). This action-adventure title dives deep into the icy ninja’s origins, allowing players to explore both his own past as well as the history of the Mortal Kombat world in general. Though the concept of a platforming game with fighting game controls as well as the frustrating level were obviously not quite fully thought out, you can't ignore that there's at least fun to be had with its combat and ridiculous cutscenes. While the game’s reception was mixed, it’s clear that Sub-Zero’s journey to define his own destiny was more than just a spin-off – it was a character’s chance to step out of the tournament ring and into an epic solo adventure, paving the way for far more succesful attempts like Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks (2005). | © Midway Games

Diddy Kong – Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest (1995)

Taking charge of a rescue mission, Diddy Kong doesn’t waste any time proving he’s more than just Donkey Kong’s sidekick in Donkey Kong Country 2 (1995). With his best friend kidnapped by the villainous King K. Rool, Diddy embarks on a daring journey through the Kremlings' home turf. The game introduces plenty of more unique level design, which showcases Diddy’s agility and demands quick thinking as well as platforming prowess. The game even gives him a girlfriend in the form of Dixie Kong, who would herself take center stage in the sequel Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble (1996). Diddy was of course also nominally the lead in Diddy Kong Racing (1997), but that game was really more of a Rareware crossover event hosted by the newly-introduced tiger Timber that only carried Diddy's name for promotional purposes. | © Rare

Yoshi – Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island (1995)

What if Mario’s trusty steed had a chance to be the star? Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island (1995) takes the spotlight off Mario and places it firmly on Yoshi, who must carry Baby Mario to safety as well as rescuing Baby Luigi, after the stork delivering them to their parents was attacked by wizard Kamek, who foresaw them causing harm to his future master, but currently Baby Bowser. As players guide Yoshi through vibrant, hand-drawn worlds, his unique abilities – like swallowing enemies and turning them into eggs – add a fresh spin to the classic platformer formula. The Yoshi games would later blossom into their own franchise, sometimes still featuring the babys, such as in Yoshi's Island DS (2006) and Yoshi's New Island (2014), but often giving the Yoshis their own agency, like in Yoshi's Story (1997) or Yoshi's Woolly World (2014). By the end of his journey, it’s clear: Yoshi is not just Mario’s helper – he’s a hero in his own right. | © Nintendo

Wario – Wario Land (1994)

A greedy, often mischievous villain becomes the protagonist in his own game series with Wario Land. This platformer completely flips the script on Mario’s traditional style, as Wario uses his brute strength, sense of greed, and – in some games – apparent immortality. Spanning a total of six games from 1994's Super Mario Land 3: Wario Land to Wario Land: Shake It! in 2008, what makes Wario Land stand out is its focus on exploration and Wario’s distinct character traits – he’s not just about jumping on enemies, he’s about smashing through everything in his path. This game set the stage for Wario’s eventual rise as an icon in his own right, showing that even a character built on being a villain can lead his own successful and fun-filled adventure. Not to mention all the antics he got up to in standalone titles like Wario World (2003) or Wario: Master of Disguise (2007) as well his WarioWare series of microgame collections! | © Nintendo