Video games fascinate audiences for different reasons. It could be because of the gameplay they offer or due to the lovely characters they deliver. Today, we’d like to consider that latter point with 10 of the greatest video game duos. Regardless if they heir from family-friendly titles or horrific worlds, one of these pairs will likely catch your eye.
If we happened to miss one of your favorites, feel free to leave a comment below.
Mario and Luigi (Super Mario Bros.)
When plumbing isn’t their game, Mario and Luigi focus on saving the day. From pixelated endeavors to their complex journeys in various RPG spin-offs, these colorful plumbers represent brotherhood in various ways. Whether it’s Luigi saving Mario from King Boo or Mario helping Luigi snap out of a mysterious villain’s control, you’ll adore seeing the love the two have for each other.
Coupled with the powers they can possess from their world’s mystic boxes, Bowser and his cronies have their work cut out for them when these brothers stand in their way.
Banjo and Kazooie (Banjo-Kazooie)
Microsoft, why haven’t you given Banjo and Kazooie a new game yet? This is a question you’ll often see people ask online regarding this bear and bird duo. Although their inclusion in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate warmed fans’ hearts, many feel the chances of seeing them let loose in a new game are below 50% at best.
New game wishes aside, Banjo and Kazooie are a lovely pair in the Banjo-Kazooie and Banjo-Tooie video games. They have wonderful chemistry, and an assortment of powers that fans will admire. Additionally, their jibberish dialect is one of their defining qualities as it’ll entice people to giggle and smile. Hopefully, Microsoft will give these two a new journey to partake in in the future.
Jak and Daxter (Jak and Daxter)
Saving the world is a constant theme shared between the duos on this list, and Jak and Daxter are no exception. Although Jak is partially responsible for Daxter’s otherworldly appearance, the two establish powerful chemistry early on, making them a great duo to follow in each game they’re in.
Whether battling evil robots or exploring different towns, fans will love seeing Jak and Daxter grow as individuals and develop new techniques to foil their enemies’ plans. Although they’re not the first pair from Naughty Dog’s catalog that fans would think of regarding well-beloved video game teams, Jak and Daxter are certainly one of the coolest.
Ellie and Joel (The Last of Us)
Traversing a corrupt world full of deadly diseases and monsters isn’t the type of lifestyle one would want. Thankfully, gamers got to experience what that’d feel like by following The Last of Us’s Ellie and Joel. Although they come off as total strangers to each other early on, throughout their journey, the two develop a father-daughter-type dynamic that’ll warm any family’s heart.
The journey this man and girl embark on is full of countless tragedy and heartbreak. However, seeing them persevere through it all and rely on each other for their individualistic skills is inspiring to see. Considering how popular this franchise has become over the years via its follow-up games and live-action series, it’s no wonder PlayStation requested Naughty Dog to give it a fresh coat of paint twice.
Kratos and Atreus (God of War)
Ellie and Joel aren’t the only PlayStation pair who exemplify the feeling of family. Enter God of War’s Kratos and Atreus. These two are an incredible duo to examine in God of War (2018) and Ragnarok. Kratos has triumphed over numerous monsters, deities, and obstacles before, but seeing him tackle a relatable challenge regarding fatherhood is compelling.
Seeing Kratos connect with Atreus throughout the two titles will resonate with players, especially those who are struggling to secure a tight-knit connection with their family members, friends, or acquaintances. On top of the tough predicaments the two encounter from psychotic gods to strong creatures, you’ll value your time spent with Kratos and Atreus in these titles.
Sonic and Tails (Sonic the Hedgehog)
As they say, every hero has his sidekick. Where Nintendo grouped Mario with his brother Luigi, Sega partnered Sonic with Miles Tails Prower. Where one excels in speed, the other succeeds in the technological category. Sonic and Tails are a strong unit and have ruined Dr. Robotnik’s (Eggman’s) schemes for years.
While Tails may not be as speedy as his blue hedgehog companion, he’s no slouch. He’s developed countless gadgets and machines that have helped Sonic overcome the most challenging hurdles and enemies possible. While Sonic may have to rescue Tails occasionally, he knows he can always count on his two-tailed buddy to be at his side when he needs him most.
Master Chief and Cortana (Halo)
Relying on an artificial being for support may sound weird to many folks, especially in today’s age. However, for Halo fans, Master Chief’s connection with Cortana is enjoyable to follow. The two display rich chemistry with each other, which is shown throughout their various interactions in this franchise.
From colorful banter to helpful guidance and everlasting respect, the two feel inseparable. This is the type of relationship fans would want from a gaming partnership of this caliber.
Lee and Clementine (The Walking Dead: The Telltale Definitive Series)
A zombie apocalypse can bring out the worst and best in people. Where some choose to abandon others for selfish endeavors, others choose to persevere and protect themselves and others from harm. Lee Everett and Clementine’s connection in Telltale’s The Walking Dead is fascinating to observe due to their respect and understanding for each other.
Although Lee’s past painted him as a scumbag, the bond he forges with Clementine throughout this frightening journey of theirs is meaningful and gripping. Through death and survival, you’ll walk away from this game satisfied with the way Telltale handled Lee and Clementine’s arcs here. While pairs like Ellie/Joel and Kratos/Atreus have their hold on the gaming community for multiple reasons, Lee and Clementine’s partnership shouldn’t be overlooked.
Ratchet and Clank (Ratchet & Clank)
Ratchet and Clank go together like Peanut Butter and Jelly. You can’t have one without the other, otherwise, you’ll be left with an empty feeling inside. Jokes aside, Ratchet and Clank embody elements of friendship and teamwork throughout the multiple journeys they embark on.
Whether they’re traversing multiple universes or foiling a cunning villain’s plans, the two often count on each other’s wit and skills to overcome the multiple hindrances that are placed in front of them. Coupled with their occasional amusing and heartfelt verbal exchanges, you have yourself an animal and robot team that’ll leave a fantastic impression on you.
Nathan Drake and Victor Sullivan (Uncharted)
Since this is a list focused on duos, we couldn’t include Sony’s cunning Racoon thief and his entourage here. So, how about we acknowledge someone else who tackles obstacles similar obstacles that are in line with the work Sly and his companions tackle? Enter Nathan Drake and his buddy Victor Sullivan aka Sully. Sully feels more like a “dad” and “mentor” to Nathan at times.
This point is strengthened heavily by the ways our duo interact with each other. Also, the flashback sequence depicting Nathan’s first meeting with Sully heightens this aspect further. This gives players an idea of how long these two have been working together. Although there are occasions where you’ll see the two clash, for rightful reasons, Nathan and Sully will find ways to triumph over those painful instances.
So, there we have it, our pick for the 10 best video game duos of all time!
What do you think of our picks? Do you agree? Are there any notable omissions? Let us know in the comments below!