Top Platformer Protagonists You’ll Instantly Love

10 June 2025

If you're anything like me, you’ve probably fallen head over heels for a well-crafted platformer at least once in your gaming life. There’s just something magical about hopping between pixelated ledges, dodging enemies, and snagging collectibles—all while guided by a charismatic little hero. That’s the heart of a platformer, right? A protagonist that pulls us in, makes us care, and keeps us hitting “continue” long after we should’ve gone to bed.

So, let's take a stroll (or a double jump) through the world of platformers and shine a spotlight on the lovable characters that make these games unforgettable. These protagonists aren’t just the faces of their games—they’re the soul. Whether they’re plumbers, dragons, or interdimensional mascots, they all bring something special to the genre.

Why Platformer Protagonists Matter

Think about it—when someone says “Mario,” your brain probably fast-forwards to bouncing on Goombas in the Mushroom Kingdom. Platformers have always revolved around strong, instantly likable leads. They're easy to root for and often charming in that quirky, Saturday morning cartoon kind of way.

What makes a platformer protagonist unforgettable? It’s not just about design. It’s their personality, their animations, their triumphs and challenges. It’s about how they make us feel when we take control.

Alright, let’s meet the legends—and a few under-the-radar gems—you’ll instantly love.

1. Mario — The Timeless Icon

Let’s be real—no list of platforming greats can exist without Mario. The mustachioed plumber has been leaping into our hearts since 1985, and he's somehow still going strong.

Why We Love Him:

Mario is simple, familiar, and dependable. He’s the everyman in overalls. Whether he’s stomping Koopa Troopas or swinging through galaxies, his cheerful “Let’s-a go!” never fails to bring a smile. And despite speaking in catchphrases, we know exactly who he is—a hero with heart. Plus, his adventures are always full of quirky characters and unforgettable moments.

2. Sonic the Hedgehog — Speed With Attitude

If Mario is the friendly neighbor, Sonic is the cool kid next door. He burst onto the scene in the early '90s, blue quills, red sneakers, and all, and he brought some serious swagger with him.

Why We Love Him:

It’s the speed, baby! Sonic’s all about momentum and style. He’s not just fast—he’s got personality dripping from every spin jump. And beneath that cocky smirk, there’s a loyal friend who’s always down to save the day. He’s the embodiment of ‘90s cool, but somehow, it works even today.

3. Ori — The Spirit of the Forest

Now let's switch gears a bit. Ori, from Ori and the Blind Forest and its sequel, brings emotional storytelling to the platforming scene in a way few others do. Small, glowing, and delicate, Ori draws you in with innocence and tugs at every heartstring you’ve got.

Why We Love Them:

Ori may not speak a word, but their expressive animations and immersive world tell a story that hits deep. The games are visually stunning, sure, but it’s Ori’s soulful journey of perseverance and love that makes them unforgettable. You’ll want to protect this little spirit with everything you've got.

4. Celeste (Madeline) — The Climb Is Real

Celeste is more than a game—it’s a metaphor wrapped in tight controls and punishingly precise jumps. At the center is Madeline, a young woman climbing a mysterious mountain while battling her inner demons.

Why We Love Her:

Madeline is us. Her journey is raw, real, and deeply personal. She’s not a superhero or a legendary warrior—she’s someone trying to make sense of herself, one jump at a time. That vulnerability, mixed with a killer soundtrack and a heartfelt narrative, makes her stand out in a sea of pixelated protagonists.

5. Banjo & Kazooie — A Duo Full of Sass

This bear and bird combo delivered one of the most charming platforming experiences of the Nintendo 64 era. Banjo brings the muscle, while Kazooie adds a ton of sass.

Why We Love Them:

What’s better than one lovable character? Two with hilarious banter. Banjo and Kazooie’s unique dynamic, infused with British humor (thanks, Rare!), made every level of their adventures a joyride. Their colorful worlds, catchy tunes, and puzzle-filled gameplay never got old—especially with Kazooie roasting everyone in sight.

6. Shovel Knight — The Blue Knight of Nostalgia

Shovel Knight hit the scene with pixel-perfect precision and retro charm, tipping his helmet to the 8-bit era while forging a fresh identity.

Why We Love Him:

He’s the underdog, the noble knight with a humble shovel and a heart full of determination. Shovel Knight is all about honor, love, and loyalty. Plus, he's so much more than a nostalgia trip—the game mechanics are rock-solid, and his emotional journey is surprisingly touching for a guy whose main tool is usually meant for gardening.

7. Crash Bandicoot — The Spinning Ball of Chaos

Crash is wild. He’s unpredictable, frantic, and downright goofy. And we love every second of it.

Why We Love Him:

Crash doesn’t talk, but his chaotic energy speaks volumes. With his expressive animations, comical deaths, and frantic movement, he practically leaps off the screen. Plus, there’s something endearing about his complete inability to grasp the gravity of his situations. He just spins through life—literally.

8. Rayman — The Limbless Wonder

Rayman doesn’t have limbs, but somehow he has a whole lot of personality. This French-born hero quietly built a cult following thanks to his quirky design and dazzling worlds.

Why We Love Him:

He’s weird—and that’s what makes him wonderful. Rayman games are filled with psychedelic levels, surreal enemies, and great humor. Through it all, Rayman stays calm, collected, and full of positive vibes. He’s not your typical hero, but that’s exactly why he sticks with you.

9. Sackboy — The Customizable Cutie

Sony gave us Sackboy via LittleBigPlanet, and he brought customization, creativity, and charm in droves.

Why We Love Him:

Sackboy is the ultimate blank canvas. You can dress him up, animate him, and take him through wild, user-created levels. But even in his default form, he's super lovable. He dances, he giggles, and he waddles around like he knows he's adorable. What’s not to like?

10. Hollow Knight — The Silent Knight

This mysterious little bug knight from Team Cherry’s Hollow Knight took the indie world by storm. No dialogue, no exposition—just haunting beauty and tight, responsive gameplay.

Why We Love Him:

There’s something poetic about Hollow Knight’s silence. He’s brave, curious, and driven, even in the face of overwhelming darkness. The more you dive into the lore, the more you appreciate his quiet nobility. Plus, the game is a masterclass in world-building, and this little knight is the glue that holds it all together.

What Makes a Great Platformer Protagonist?

It’s not just slick moves or colorful hats. The best platformer protagonists feel alive. They're animated with love, full of quirks, and introduced in ways that make you want to root for them instantly. Whether they're fighting evil corporations, climbing through anxiety, or just trying to save a friend, they resonate with us. They remind us that even in the most pixelated worlds, there’s room for heart.

Here’s the thing: a platformer lives or dies by its controls—and the character you're controlling. If you don’t connect with them, the jumps feel hollow. But when you care? Oh, every level becomes personal.

Honorable Mentions

There are just too many greats to ignore, so let’s quickly shout out a few that deserve love:

- Meat Boy – All heart… literally. No skin, just speed and determination.
- Yooka and Laylee – A spiritual successor full of charm and callbacks.
- Hat Kid (A Hat in Time) – Adorably fierce and full of pizzazz.
- Klonoa – Dreamlike design with an emotionally rich backstory.
- Raz (Psychonauts) – Platforming mixed with mental acrobatics and wild humor.

Yup, we’re spoiled for choice.

Final Thoughts

Platformers may seem simple on the surface—jump, dodge, repeat—but the real magic lies in their protagonists. These characters aren't just avatars. They're our companions, our reflections, our guides through strange and colorful worlds. They carry the soul of the genre and have etched themselves into gaming history.

And hey, whether you prefer a spinning marsupial, a stoic bug knight, or a tiny ghost glowing through a forest, there’s a platforming hero out there just waiting to steal your heart.

So, next time you boot up a platformer, take a second to appreciate the effort, personality, and passion packed into every hop, skip, and double jump. Because behind every great level is a protagonist you’ll instantly love.