As a passionate gamer I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the evolution of representation in video games over the years. The 21st century has brought forth a wave of diverse characters, each contributing their unique narratives to the gaming landscape. Here’s my personal list of the top 10 black video game characters from the years 2000 to 2023. Please note that this list is not in any particular order, as each character brings their own exceptional qualities and stories to the gaming world (But I do have my favorites :-)(Also there’s no spoilers so don’t worry or whatever 🙄)

Otis’ Top 10 Black Video Game Characters

1. Miles Morales (Spider-Man)
   Swinging into the hearts of players as the friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, Miles Morales represents a new generation of superheroes. His character showcases diversity and inclusivity in the Spider-Verse. Miles made his debut in the first Spider-Man game, where his introduction was so well received that his DLC was upgraded to a spinoff game. As fans eagerly anticipate the release of Spider-Man 2 on October 20th, 2023, it’s clear that we’ll be seeing more of Miles Morales in action, further solidifying his importance in the world of gaming. (You can probably guess this is a favorite 🙃)
2. Augustus Cole (Gears of War)
   Known for his humor and bravery, Augustus Cole, or simply “Cole Train,” is a beloved character from the Gears of War series. His unwavering determination and memorable one-liners have made him a fan favorite.
3. James Heller (Prototype 2)
   James Heller’s journey in Prototype 2 is one of vengeance and transformation. His powerful abilities and complex character make him a standout figure in the world of anti-heroes.
4. Carl CJ Johnson (GTA San Andreas)
   Carl “CJ” Johnson is the lead character in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. While the Grand Theft Auto franchise may not be everyone’s cup of tea(definitely isnt mine 🚮), CJ’s undeniable impact on gaming history cannot be overlooked. His journey through the criminal underworld of Los Santos is a memorable experience, showcasing the diversity of storytelling in gaming.
5. Angrboda (God of War Ragnarok)
   Angrboda from God of War Ragnarok is a notable addition to the list. Her presence in the game adds depth and complexity to the narrative, and her role in the upcoming title has piqued the interest of gamers worldwide.
6. Geras (Mortal Kombat)
   Geras, a formidable character in the Mortal Kombat series, possesses the power to manipulate time. His menacing presence and intriguing abilities add depth to the game’s lore. In the recently released Mortal Kombat 1, Geras’ role gave new light to the character, further enhancing his significance in the franchise.
7. Sgt. Major Avery Johnson (Halo Franchise)
   Sgt. Major Avery Johnson is a key figure in the Halo franchise. His leadership, courage, and memorable moments throughout the series have left an indelible mark on Halo’s narrative.
8. Sheva Alomar (Resident Evil 5)
   Sheva Alomar is a skilled BSAA agent in Resident Evil 5. Her partnership with Chris Redfield showcases teamwork and survival skills in the face of a zombie apocalypse.
9. Eddy Gordo (Tekken)
   Eddy Gordo’s fluid Capoeira moves and compelling backstory have made him an iconic character in the Tekken series. He is a testament to the global reach of the fighting game community.
10. Sylens (Horizon Series)
    Sylens is a mysterious character from the Horizon series, known for his intelligence and enigmatic motives. His role in the games adds depth to the overarching storyline.

This list reflects my perspective as Otis East, Content Director for Blerd, highlighting the diverse and impactful characters that have graced my eyes in my time gaming from 2000 to 2023. Each character has contributed to the rich tapestry of gaming narratives, showcasing the importance of representation and storytelling in the industry. If you have any characters you think I missed let us know in the comments.