The Best RPG Characters To Hang Out With

I spend a lot of time in virtual worlds, but what always draws me in are the characters I explore them with. I find part of why I love role-playing games so much is the distinct personalities of these characters; they often become more than just images on the screen. Every so often while I play, I find myself thinking, "Hey, this character would be fun to hang out with in real life." This could only happen in a dream world, but it's a fun situation to ponder. Here are some of my favorite characters who I know I'd have a grand time hanging out with.

Yuri Hyuga (Shadow Hearts)

Not only does Yuri have a tough-guy demeanor, ensuring nobody would dare pick a fight with you in his presence, but his sarcasm makes for some great quips. Like Jim from The Office, who looks at the camera and shakes his head over all the crazy people around him, Yuri has a thought about everyone. The difference between Yuri and Jim? Yuri isn't afraid to speak his mind, saying the things we all think, but wouldn't dare say. Yuri's brashness coupled with his impeccable wit guarantees a memorable day.

Garrus  (Mass Effect)

He's got the reach if you've got the flexibility, but mostly Garrus is just a cool bro. His favorite activity, shooting bottles on top of the Citadel, is more than a fun way to spend the day, and Garrus' laid-back demeanor is perfect for easing stress. After all, do you think Commander Shepard could have dealt with the pressure of saving the world without Garrus' comic relief?

Elenor Silverberg  (Suikoden IV)

Elenor has a lot of wisdom; as a tactician, she relies on creativity to outsmart the enemy. But besides mastering the art of trickery, Elenor is a no-nonsense type, and she's happiest when she's drinking her wine. In fact, Elenor can drink her male counterparts under the table, and wine parties are her pleasure. She's my kind of girl.

Rikku (Final Fantasy X and X-2)

Sometimes you just want to be around someone with positive energy, and Rikku has more than enough energy to go around. Like your personal cheerleader, she'll lift your spirits quickly. In a world where people feed off negativity, Rikku's happy-go-lucky demeanor is invigorating; it'd be a day of embracing your inner child, not letting the weight of the world get you down.

Junpei (Persona 3)

Junpei is a loveable dude. He's a big dork at heart, but he overcompensates when he tries to hide it - and it's hilarious. But deep down, Junpei is a good guy, who's laid back - a goofball who just wants to have a good time. He'll do anything in his power to make sure those around him are enjoying themselves. Plus, watching Junpei try to be the life of the party and ultimately embarrass himself is a moment I don't want to miss.

Up Next: A girl and book duel, sea-salt ice cream, and a space hamster...

Kaine and Grimoire Weiss (Nier)

Watching the banter between these two is a highlight in Nier. Kaine's a take-no-lip type, and Grimoire Weiss is a smart aleck; put the two together and the insults fly. Hanging out with them would be like watching a great verbal beatdown, over and over again, and thinking, "Oh no, s/he didn't!"

Sully (Fire Emblem Awakening)

Sully is a guys' girl; she's more likely to arm wrestle you than worry about her figure. That's her charm. Hanging out with Sully is sure to be a day full of competition; can you imagine roping her into a sport or two? It'd be an intense fight. Plus, Sully doesn't pretend to be anything she's not, and spending time with someone so comfortable in her own skin would be refreshing.

Axel (Kingdom Hearts)

Axel is your go-to confidant to spill your guts to; he'll even take you on top of a building overlooking the Twilight Town train station, so you have a calming view while you unwind. Better yet is that he's always equipped with sea-salt ice cream. A smart man who feeds you ice cream with his wisdom? Advice like that is hard to find.

Setzer (Final Fantasy VI)

Setzer loves risk. Sometimes in life, you need to be around someone who doesn't play it safe, and who is willing to take a gamble. Setzer not only loves gambling money, but he also has his own airship casino. Part of the fun would be seeing how far Setzer would go in pursuit of a risk. Would you get caught up in the adrenaline rush of taking a chance? Setzer would be right there supporting you to put all your money on red. Hopefully, it would be a happy gamble.

Minsc (Baldur's Gate)

Minsc just might be the most interesting character on this list. The poor guy has suffered way too many hits to the head, and now thinks his hamster, Boo, is a Miniature Giant Space Hamster. I'd hang out with him to watch his conversations with Boo, which are sure to be more than entertaining. Even when not talking to Boo, Minsc has some of the funniest sayings, especially when he twists common ones like this, "Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, watch it! I'm huge." You could call him insane, but Minsc is a good soul. I'd be more than willing to spend time with him and his Miniature Giant Space Hamster.

Which RPG characters would you hang out with? Let us know in the comments below.