18. Emperor Uriel Septim VII - The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (2006)
Emperor Uriel Septim VII was a staple character of the Elder Scrolls series up until his demise in the opening sequence of Oblivion, even if this is the only game where he makes a significant physical appearance. The emperor was in the middle of an escape when he was killed, aware that his own life was in danger after three of his sons were murdered. An assassin stabs him to death, setting in motion the events of the game, as without an Emperor of Septim lineage wearing the Amulet of Kings (which is found on Uriel's body), the barrier between Tamriel and the realm of Oblivion is no longer closed, leading to chaos. After learning that Uriel did father an illegitimate heir, Martin, the central quest of the game is to track Martin down with the hope that he can reignite the Dragonfires with the Amulet of Kings and bring peace back to Tamriel. Given his stature throughout the history of the Elder Scrolls narrative, it was a huge moment indeed, and having him voiced by Patrick Stewart of all people was the delicious icing on the cake.
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