10 Video Game Characters Fans OBSESSED Over (Commenter's Edition)

Because of the characters' disproportionate muscles, you'd expect the ensemble of Gears of War to be a bunch of mindless meatheads.

Fortunately, Epic Games went against the grain, focusing on the characters' camaraderie above all else, ensuring you become emotionally invested in the cast.

And nobody tugs on your heartstrings more than Dominic Santiago.

Dom's lighthearted charisma in the first instalment perfectly counterbalances Marcus Fenix's gruff demeanour, giving them some great banter. Although a comic relief character can feel forced, Dom's cheeky jabs work in the story's favour, since it's clear he uses humour to mask his fears.

Even though many characters in the franchise are clearly defined, they are usually set firmly, giving them no chance to evolve. Luckily, we witness Dom develop from a whimsical joker to a tormented soul.

Watching that spark within Dom fade after he loses his wife was truly heartbreaking. And when Dom gave his life to save his comrades, it was impossible not to tear up.

Marcus Fenix may be the face of Gears of War, but there's no question Dominic Santiago is the heart.