Best female characters in RPGs

Discover the most iconic and memorable female protagonists in role-playing video games. This selection highlights powerful, brave, and inventive heroines who have left an indelible mark on the RPG genre, from classic JRPGs to modern titles. Explore female characters who have led epic stories and become player favourites. Find inspiration in these figures who demonstrate the strength and complexity of women in video games.

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  1. 1

    Karlach (Baldur's Gate 3)

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    • Fights hard

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    Karlach is one of Baldur's Gate 3's most beloved companions, noted for her survival story and vibrant personality. Her desperate search for a solution to her infernal engine makes her incredibly endearing and memorable to players.

  2. 2

    Commander Shepard (Mass Effect)

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    • Considered a favorite female protagonist

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    Commander Shepard is an absolute icon of Western RPGs, representing the player's ability to forge their own hero's journey. Her strength, leadership, and the depth of her relationships with other characters keep her a central figure in RPG discussions.

  3. 3

    Aloy (Horizon Zero Dawn & Forbidden West)

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    • Well-written character

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    Aloy is an example of how to create strong, well-developed female protagonists in a modern and successful series. Her intelligence, survival skills, and straightforward personality have made her a modern video game icon.

  4. 4

    Aerith Gainsborough (Final Fantasy VII / Remake)

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    • Has deeper knowledge of unfolding events

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    Aerith has held icon status in the JRPG genre for decades, with her positive attitude and determination. Her tragic fate and ability to evoke emotions make her much beloved, especially with her renewed presence in the Remake.

  5. 5

    Tifa Lockhart (Final Fantasy VII / Remake)

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    • Reserved, moral, and empathic

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    Tifa is a strong and capable female character, both in combat and in her emotional development, serving as a pillar in the story of Final Fantasy VII. Her loyalty and crucial role in the plot keep her a fan favorite.

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  7. 6

    Yuna (Final Fantasy X / X-2)

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    • Fantastically written character

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    Yuna is considered one of the most carefully crafted and best-constructed female roles in the Final Fantasy franchise. Her evolution across two games and her emotional impact keep her a fan favorite.

  8. 7

    Velvet Crowe (Tales of Berseria)

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    • Central protagonist in Tales of Berseria

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    Velvet Crowe stands out for her moral complexity and character evolution, being one of the darkest and most vengeful protagonists in the JRPG genre. She is an example of a female protagonist who deviates from traditional archetypes, being 'morally grey'.

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    Lightning (Final Fantasy XIII)

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    • Ranked best character in XIII by IGN readers

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    Lightning stands out for her independent nature and leadership in an epic plot, being the main protagonist of Final Fantasy XIII. She is considered a character who 'exudes sisterhood, self-sufficiency, and deviates from typical protagonist love tropes'.

  10. 9

    Estelle Bright (The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky)

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    • Bright, outgoing, and optimistic

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    Estelle Bright is considered one of the 'queens of RPGs' for her charisma, brutal development, and the mark she has left on the Trails series. Her evolution from 'apprentice to heroine' and her ability to inspire make her a timeless character.

  11. 10

    Female Protagonist (Persona 3 Portable)

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    • One of few female protagonists in the Persona series

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    The Female Protagonist of Persona 3 Portable offers a unique perspective on the game's narrative, being an example of how a female protagonist can be strong without resorting to stereotypes. Her relaunch has renewed her popularity.

  12. 11

    Aqua (Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep)

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    • Flawless and self-sufficient

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    Aqua is one of the few female protagonists in the Kingdom Hearts series and stands out for her strength, independence, and deep commitment to her loved ones. She is a Keyblade Master with great skills.

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    Sylvanas Windrunner (World of Warcraft)

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    • Leadership acumen in life

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    Sylvanas Windrunner is one of the most influential and controversial characters in World of Warcraft, central to the game's narrative for years. Her cunning, power, and complex narrative arc make her memorable.

  14. 13

    KOS-MOS (Xenosaga series)

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    • Central character of the Xenosaga series

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    KOS-MOS stands out for her unique design and her cold, logical personality which contrasts with her emotional development throughout the Xenosaga trilogy. She is an iconic combat android from JRPGs.

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    Lyn (Fire Emblem: Blazing Blade)

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    • Has prickly pride and spirituality with nature

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    Lyn is an iconic character from Tactical RPGs, who 'draws strength from anywhere to keep going'. She is an example of a strong and brave woman who seeks to avenge her tribe and discover her heritage.

  16. 15

    Lenneth Valkyrie (Valkyrie Profile)

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    • Kind person

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    Lenneth Valkyrie is an example of a strong female protagonist in a JRPG who has left a lasting impression on fans of the genre. She is an imposing figure with a strong sense of duty and a complex personal history.