Unsung Heroes: NPCs That Deserve Their Own Fantasy Games

8 May 2025

When we think about fantasy games, our minds often wander to the valiant heroes saving the world, the villains wreaking havoc, or the mystical landscapes that enrapture us for hours on end. But let’s take a moment to talk about the unsung heroes of these adventures—the NPCs (non-playable characters). You know, those side characters who subtly fuel the storyline, deliver witty one-liners, or provide emotional depth without ever stepping into the spotlight. Some of these NPCs are so well-crafted and intriguing that they deserve their own standalone games.

Think about it—how many times have you run into an NPC and thought, "Wow, this character has so much to offer! Why am I not learning more about them?" It’s like walking into a bakery, smelling fresh croissants, but only being allowed to look at them through the glass. Heartbreaking, right? So, let’s shine a spotlight on these underrated legends and imagine what could happen if the script flipped.

What Makes a Great NPC?

Before we dive into the list, let's talk about what makes a truly fantastic NPC. They're not just filler characters; the best NPCs leave a lasting impression. They have personality, depth, and often a backstory that feels just as compelling as the protagonist’s. They’re the side dish that sometimes outshines the main course.

When developers create these NPCs, they give us glimpses into their lives—small breadcrumbs that make us yearn for more. Maybe it’s through their tragic backstory, their unusual quirks, or their invaluable contributions to your journey. These are the characters that stick with us even after the credits roll.

1. Lydia (Skyrim) – The Stalwart Shadow

You can't talk about unforgettable NPCs without mentioning Lydia, your fierce and loyal housecarl from The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Lydia is a warrior with a dry sense of humor and an unwavering dedication to protecting you—even if that sometimes means standing directly in front of your arrows (we’ve all been there).

But who is Lydia outside of her role as our trusty pack mule? What were her dreams, her struggles, her aspirations before she swore fealty to the Dragonborn? A standalone game revolving around Lydia could explore her life as a protector in Whiterun, her training as a warrior, and her inner battles as she supports the Dragonborn on their perilous journey. Imagine an adventure game with strategic combat and a heartfelt narrative that digs deep into her psyche. It would be worth its weight in dragon bones.

2. The Masked Lumen Sage (Bayonetta) – The Enigmatic Anti-Hero

The Bayonetta series is as over-the-top and fabulous as gaming gets, but one character who constantly leaves us guessing is the Masked Lumen Sage (also known as Balder). While he serves as an antagonist, Balder's perspective is endlessly intriguing. How did he become the morally complex character we encounter?

A fantasy action game centered on Balder could be a mix of combat, moral dilemmas, and a deep dive into his tragic past. Picture this: playing through the cataclysmic events that shaped his life while choosing between the light and dark forces. Every decision could sway his alignment, altering the game's outcome. Sounds epic, doesn't it?

3. Midna (The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess) – From Shadow to Sovereign

If you’ve ever played Twilight Princess, you probably fell in love with Midna. She’s witty, mysterious, and has a surprising amount of sass for someone trapped in imp form. But by the end of the game, it’s clear there is so much more to her than meets the eye.

Imagine a fantasy platformer centered on Midna’s rise to power in the Twilight Realm. The game could showcase her struggles as a ruler, her battle to protect her people, and her relationship with the light world. Sprinkle in some clever puzzles, unique shadow-based mechanics, and her trademark levels of sass, and you’d have a game that’s equal parts heartwarming and exhilarating.

4. Garrus Vakarian (Mass Effect) – The Turian Lone Wolf

Okay, Mass Effect fans, let’s admit it: Garrus Vakarian is the space bro (or crush) we all wish we had. The sniper-turned-vigilante-turned-commander is an absolute gem of a character. Between his dry wit and unwavering loyalty, he’s the kind of NPC who feels like family.

But there’s a whole chapter of Garrus’ life we barely scratched the surface of—his time as “Archangel,” the lone vigilante taking on crime syndicates in the chaos of Omega. A Garrus-centric sci-fi RPG would be a dream, where you play as Garrus during his vigilante days. With high-stakes missions, undercover operations, and tactical combat, it’d be a mix of gritty action and emotional storytelling. Sign me up!

5. The Horned King (The Black Cauldron) – A Villain’s Redemption Arc

Yes, I’m diving into retro territory with this one. The Horned King from The Black Cauldron is a classic villain oozing with potential. But what if he wasn’t all bad? What if there’s a story behind his fall into darkness? Everyone loves a redemption arc (think Zuko from Avatar: The Last Airbender), and the Horned King could deliver one for the ages.

A fantasy game exploring his transformation from a once-noble ruler to a power-hungry villain could be rich with intrigue. It could include moral choices, dark magic, and heartbreakingly tough decisions. Toss in some dungeon exploration and boss battles, and you’ve got a recipe for a memorable gaming experience.

6. Tifa Lockhart (Final Fantasy VII) – The Fighter with a Heart of Gold

Sure, Tifa is already a heavily featured character in the Final Fantasy series, but she’s still technically an NPC when you’re controlling Cloud. Tifa’s backstory, which includes losing her family, training as a martial artist, and navigating complex emotions, is brimming with untapped potential.

How about a character-driven RPG that focuses on her journey before she meets Cloud? It could highlight her growth as a fighter and her efforts to rebuild her life in the turbulent world of Midgar. Add some dynamic hand-to-hand combat and exploration of her relationships with other side characters, and you’ve got a knockout hit.

7. The Merchant (Resident Evil 4) – What’re Ya Buyin’?

Let’s end this on a lighter note. The Resident Evil 4 Merchant is a bit of a meme at this point, but who wouldn’t want to know more about the shady guy selling high-grade weapons in the middle of a zombie apocalypse?

Imagine an indie-style game where you play as the Merchant, scavenging for rare items, navigating dangerous territories, and negotiating with eccentric characters. Throw in a bit of dark humor and a crafting system, and this could be a wildly entertaining spin-off.

The Importance of Recognizing NPCs

NPCs are more than just background noise; they’re the glue holding the narrative together. Giving them their own games not only offers fresh perspectives but also enriches the worlds we’ve come to love.

Developers take note: these characters might not wear the protagonist’s cape, but they certainly have the charisma, depth, and untapped potential to carry entire games on their own.