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Who are the most iconic characters in classic video games and what makes them so memorable?

Olin Lethcoe

Hey there, my fellow gamers! Today, let's embark on a journey through time and dive into the world of classic video game characters. From plumbers to spies, princesses to hedgehogs, there are some truly iconic video game characters that have managed to stand the test of time and capture our hearts. So, who are the most iconic characters in classic video games, and what makes them so memorable? Buckle up, it's time to find out!

First up, we have the king of the Mushroom Kingdom himself, Mario. Mario started his journey as the titular character in the game Donkey Kong way back in 1981, and has since become one of the most recognizable and beloved video game characters of all time. But what makes Mario so iconic? Well, for starters, he's a plumber who kicks butt and takes names. He's got a catchphrase ("It's-a me, Mario!"), a signature mustache, and a bright red hat that instantly makes you think of him. Additionally, Mario has starred in countless games over the years, including Super Mario Bros., Mario Party, and Mario Kart, just to name a few. He's also managed to stay relevant despite the ever-changing landscape of the gaming industry, which is truly an impressive feat.

Next, we have everyone's favorite blue hedgehog, Sonic. Sonic burst onto the scene in 1991 and quickly became a fan favorite, thanks to his lightning-fast speed, snarky attitude, and lovable personality. Sonic has starred in dozens of games over the years, but it's his debut game (simply titled Sonic the Hedgehog) that really cemented him as an icon. The game offered players a break from the slow-paced platformers of the time, and instead let them blast through levels at breakneck speeds. Sonic's design is also instantly recognizable – his bright blue fur, red sneakers, and spiky quills make him stand out in any crowd. Sonic has since become synonymous with Sega, and even has his own series of comic books, TV shows, and movies.

Of course, we can't talk about iconic video game characters without mentioning the one and only Lara Croft. Lara made her first appearance in the game Tomb Raider in 1996, and quickly became a symbol of female empowerment in the gaming world. Lara is intelligent, sassy, and absolutely kicks butt in a way that few female characters had before her. While the early Tomb Raider games (and their infamous "pointy polygons" graphics) may seem dated now, there's no denying that Lara was a trailblazer in her time. She's also had a successful film franchise, with Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander both portraying her on the big screen.

Lastly, we have the world's most famous secret agent, James Bond. Bond has been a staple of pop culture since his first appearance in the novel Casino Royale in 1953, but it wasn't until the release of GoldenEye 007 on the Nintendo 64 in 1997 that he became a video game icon as well. GoldenEye 007 is considered one of the greatest first-person shooters of all time, and it's largely due to its engaging single-player campaign and addictive multiplayer mode. Playing as Bond in the game allowed players to step into the shoes of one of the coolest and most sophisticated characters in fiction, complete with gadgets, guns, and the ability to charm the pants off just about anyone. Bond's suave personality and debonair style have made him an enduring icon for over half a century, and his status as a video game character is just another testament to his enduring appeal.

So there you have it, folks – four of the most iconic video game characters of all time. From their personalities to their designs, these characters have managed to capture our hearts and imaginations for decades. Whether you're a fan of platformers, shooters, or action-adventure games, there's something to love about each of these characters. What do you think? Did we miss any of your favorites? Let us know in the comments!