Video games transport us to captivating realms filled with imaginative narratives and intense conflicts. Players often engage with these worlds through the experiences of a protagonist, allowing them to immerse themselves in these intricate stories fully.
As players take on the roles of these characters, a strong emotional bond often develops. They rally behind their heroes during moments of conflict, empathizing with their struggles. However, not all video game protagonists earn the audience’s affection—intentionally or not. Some become frustrating due to poor writing, moral ambiguity, or irritating dialogue, yet they may remain memorable for all the wrong reasons.
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of video game protagonists that left players feeling less than favorable toward them, often becoming symbols of everything players love to hate.
1. Abby
The Last of Us Part 2
Beginning our list is Abby, a character who stirs considerable controversy. Introduced in The Last of Us Part 2, she commits a shocking act of violence that triggers a devastating series of events, igniting player disdain. Despite her role as a catalyst for the plot, Naughty Dog compels players to experience Abby’s journey, aiming to humanize her through relationships with Lev and Yara. This shift from antagonist to anti-hero is notable, yet many players struggle to forgive her for a pivotal act that tarnished a beloved character.
2. Aidan Pearce
Watch Dogs
Aidan Pearce, the protagonist of Watch Dogs, initially comes off as a cool vigilante. However, a second playthrough reveals his character’s depth—or lack thereof. Despite an attempt to portray him as a dark, gritty hacker, he often resonates as a one-dimensional archetype. Players find themselves frustrated with his monotone demeanor, leading to a mixed reputation for the game itself.
3. Lo Wang
Shadow Warrior
Lo Wang, the protagonist of Shadow Warrior, can be described as a relentless source of cringe. His incessant one-liners and forced humor may detract from the otherwise fast-paced gameplay. While his prowess as a ninja is undeniable, players may find it difficult to tolerate his quips long enough to enjoy the game.
4. Postal Dude
Postal
The Postal franchise’s Postal Dude takes offensive humor to the extreme, embodying a character whose mission seems solely to incite chaos. Players may initially find his dark sense of humor amusing, but his relentless run of despicable acts and absurd abilities lead to a character that is more grotesque than entertaining.
5. Trevor
GTA V
Trevor from Grand Theft Auto V is an embodiment of chaos and is undeniably entertaining—yet his abhorrently violent and cruel nature makes him a notoriously unlikeable protagonist. Players are conflicted as they navigate through his chaotic antics, torn between fascination and disgust for his behavior. Moments of unexpected compassion provide a glimpse into his complex character but fail to redeem his overwhelmingly malevolent actions.
6. Duke Nukem
Duke Nukem Series
Duke Nukem has been a staple in gaming history since the early ’90s, yet his absurd hypermasculinity and crude humor have become grating with age. While originally a satirical nod to action hero stereotypes, his return in Duke Nukem Forever failed to impress, as audiences were forced to endure tiresome and outdated jokes, resulting in a character better left in the past.
7. Raiden
Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty
Raiden’s character in Metal Gear Solid 2 is often labeled as a ‘troll’ move by Hideo Kojima, replacing the beloved Solid Snake with a less seasoned protagonist. This drastic shift frustrated many fans, as Raiden’s melodramatic persona and lack of substantial character depth irked players, overshadowing his later developments in the series.
8. Kane and Lynch
Kane & Lynch Series
The duo in the Kane and Lynch series is designed to be truly unlikable, pursuing a life of crime without any redeeming qualities. Their morally bankrupt antics create a unique gaming experience, forcing players to grapple with assisting characters that you might find utterly detestable, capturing the essence of a love-to-hate dynamic.
9. Frey
The prophesied
Frey from Forspoken suffers from being bland and uninspiring, often relying on forced humor and pop culture references that fall flat. Despite the potential for a compelling character within a magical setting, Frey’s portrayal instead leaves players wanting, resulting in a frustrating gameplay experience that leads many to disengage.
10. P-3
Atomic Heart
P-3 from Atomic Heart falls flat as a protagonist despite the game’s promising concept of an alternate Soviet Union. His mean-spirited attitude and constant negativity detract from the experience, frustrating players who might have embraced the fascinating world if not for his insufferable disposition. This discontent has marked him as one of modern gaming’s most irritating characters.
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