1. Solaire Of Astora (Dark Souls)
Dark Souls is an unbelievably bleak game and the Undead Burg (the 'first' area of the game if you're following the typical progress route) proves to be a stern test of your mettle with undead foes and a hulking Taurus Demon to defeat. Moving through the area though, you'll come across a bright, sunny area and a man bathing in it. He's unbelievably chipper given the world around him, talking of whimsical ideas like "jolly co-operation" and "finding his sun". This is your first meeting with Solaire and it's pretty unforgettable. Solaire appears infrequently throughout the remainder of the game but his most helpful appearances will be as a summonable ally for a few of the game's infamously difficult bosses. With a range of miracles at his disposal, he deals bosses a lot of damage quickly and can be a major difference in avoiding another '
You Died' screen. Above all else, his glowing personality is a source of comfort in Lordran's dark and hostile environment; it's genuinely emotional when he begins to lose his way as the game progresses and Solaire's story develops. It might limit the creativity of Dark Souls to have an established character at the helm of a game but if From Software were to create a game starring Solaire and his adventures pre-Lordran, I'm certain it would be a hit. Praise the sun!
Of course, there are plenty of other side characters in video games that we love; many of which would be great in a starring role for once. Can you think of any others? Do you just want to babble on about your love for Captain Price? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.