2018's Biggest Video Game Protagonists - Ranked From Worst To Best

1. Kratos (God Of War)

Just barely stealing the lead away from Arthur Morgan is a protagonist who defied expectations of both franchise fans and haters alike.

Though the previous God of War titles were all firmly acclaimed by critics, there was the feeling among many that "hero" Kratos was the weak link, given his extremely cartoonish and one-dimensional characterisation and perceived lack of charm or likeability.

Impressively, director Cory Barlog self-reflexively exploits this view of Kratos in the new game, reinventing him with a narrative twist akin to Clint Eastwood's classic western Unforgiven.

The Norse-themed Kratos we meet here desperately wants to avoid returning to his prior savagery at all costs while teaching his young son Atreus how to survive. Though many initially groaned at a God of War game having an "escort" character, those fears were quickly fanned away within minutes of playing.

Not only is Atreus an excellent support character, the bond between father and son forms the thematic spine of the game, helping make Kratos into more than a generic brute.

In addition to melting Kratos' heart just enough to satisfy, the game also smartly decides to mock his terse, self-serious demeanour to hilarious effect. In humanising a hitherto blank slate of a franchise icon, Balrog laid the floor for a more accessible game which also avoided feeling "dumbed down."

How would you rate 2018's biggest video game protagonists? Shout them out in the comments!