Top 10 Most Iconic Character Designs in Video Games

Great character designs can make a video game unforgettable. From their looks to their personalities, these characters stay with us long after we stop playing. Here are the 10 most iconic character designs in gaming history – and why they work so well.

1. Mario (Super Mario Bros.)

Why It’s Iconic:

Instant recognition (red hat, blue overalls, mustache)
Simple but expressive design works at any size
Color scheme stands out in any environment

Design Secret:
Creator Shigeru Miyamoto gave him a mustache because 8-bit graphics couldn’t show a mouth clearly.

Learn more about Mario’s design evolution

2. Lara Croft (Tomb Raider)

Why It’s Iconic:

One of gaming’s first female action heroes
Dual pistols and braid became her signature look
Design evolved while keeping core elements

Fun Fact:
Original designer Toby Gard added her ponytail so players would always know which way she was facing.

3. Master Chief (Halo)

Why It’s Iconic:

Sleek, armored look says “future soldier” instantly
Visor hides his face, making him feel mysterious
Green color stands out against space backgrounds

Design Tip:
His armor has just enough detail to feel real but stays simple enough to recognize instantly.

4. Pikachu (Pokémon)

Why It’s Iconic:

Perfect “cute but powerful” balance
Yellow color pops on screen
Simple shapes make it easy to draw/remember

Design Secret:
Originally, Pikachu was going to be a chubby rodent, but the team slimmed it down for more appeal.

See Pikachu’s design sheets

5. Kratos (God of War)

Why It’s Iconic:

Pale skin and red tattoos create striking contrast
Weapons (Blades of Chaos) are part of his silhouette
2018 redesign added depth while keeping him recognizable

Design Evolution:
His beard in newer games helped show his older, wiser side while keeping his tough look.

6. Sonic the Hedgehog

Why It’s Iconic:

Blue color says “speed” even when standing still
Spikes and red shoes create dynamic lines
Simple enough for kids to draw

Design Lesson:
His original shoes were inspired by Michael Jackson’s boots and Santa Claus’ outfit!

7. Link (The Legend of Zelda)

Why It’s Iconic:

Green tunic and hat feel heroic but simple
Master Sword and shield complete the look
Design changes per game but always feels like Link

Fun Fact:
His hat was added partly so NES graphics wouldn’t have to animate hair movement.

8. Samus Aran (Metroid)

Why It’s Iconic:

One of gaming’s first armored heroines
Power suit design mixes alien and tech elements
Big reveal that she was a woman shocked players

Design Impact:
Her suit design influenced countless sci-fi games after.

9. Pac-Man

Why It’s Iconic:

Simple circle with a mouth = instant recognition
Yellow color stands out against maze backgrounds
No face needed – the mouth says everything

Design Secret:
Creator Toru Iwatani got the idea from a pizza missing a slice!

10. Ellie (The Last of Us)

Why It’s Iconic:

Realistic, detailed design breaks “game character” molds
Clothes and scars tell her story visually
Face animations set new standards for emotion

Design Note:
Her freckles and hair were painstakingly designed to look natural.

What Makes Great Character Designs?

These character designs work because they:
✔ Communicate personality visually
✔ Stay recognizable at small sizes
✔ Have distinct silhouettes
✔ Evolve while keeping core elements

FAQs About Video Game Character Designs

1. Why do so many game characters wear gloves?

Saves animation time (no finger details)
Makes hands more visible on screen
Mario started the trend!

2. How has technology changed character design?

Early games needed simple shapes (like Pac-Man). Now, designers can add realistic details (like Ellie’s freckles).

3. What’s the hardest part of character design?

Making characters that look good from all angles in a 3D game.

4. Why are so many iconic characters animals?

Animal characters are easier to stylize and often more memorable than humans.

5. Do color choices matter in character design?

Absolutely! Designers use color psychology:

Red = energy (Mario)
Blue = speed (Sonic)
Green = heroism (Link)