The top 15 most intriguing video game characters

A new study from gaming site experts Clash.gg analyzed Wikipedia data to find out which gaming characters spark the most curiosity. This is based on the number of page views on Wikipedia pages dedicated to the characters in the last 30 days.

The game’s characters often leave players intrigued with mysteries about their backstories or roles that drive fans to seek out more information, while Wikipedia has become the go-to resource for those looking to unravel these mysteries.

And it turns out the video game character people want to know about the most is Shadow the Hedgehog with 68,896 page views. This iconic villain from the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise also recently appeared in the Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie.

In second place is Mario, with 67,263 Wikipedia pages viewed. First introduced in Donkey Kong and Mario Bros., this beloved character has become a global sensation. His appearance in the Super Mario Bros. movie. further cemented his status as a timeless favorite, leaving generations of fans eager to learn more about the plumber.

Pikachu, the face of the Pokémon franchise, ranks third with 56,933 page views. Known for its electrical capabilities and iconic design, this yellow mouse enjoys worldwide recognition and inspires more to learn more about its enduring legacy.

Interestingly, Sonic the Hedgehog himself comes in fourth place, with 39,470 Wikipedia pages viewed. Despite being the franchise’s main hero, it’s the enigmatic anti-hero Shadow who has garnered more fan attention over the past month.

In fifth position is Kratos, the fearsome protagonist of the God of War series, with 38,993 page views. His complex character arc, rooted in Greek and Norse mythology, continues to intrigue fans, making him a fascinating figure to explore further.

Iconic Tomb Raider heroine Lara Croft follows closely in sixth place with 38,876 Wikipedia pages viewed. Her enduring legacy keeps her among the most studied characters, along with a recent casting announcement regarding a live-action series.

Another Sonic the Hedgehog character, Doctor Eggman, ranked seventh with 35,972 page views on Wikipedia. As the main antagonist of the franchise, his appearance reprized in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 clearly left fans wanting to know more.

Moving to the horror genre, Pyramid Head, first introduced in Silent Hill 2, sits in eighth place with 32,817 page views. The Faceless Monster attracts nearly double the number of page views as the franchise’s protagonist, James Sunderland, who placed twentieth on the list with 16,914 page views.

Returning to the Sonic universe, Knuckles ranked ninth with 28,951 page views. Introduced alongside Sonic in Sonic the Hedgehog 3, the film clearly piqued the curiosity of audiences new and old, fueling interest in Knuckles and the rest of the Sonic gang.

The top ten is completed by Steve from Minecraft, with 28,084 page views. The simplicity and creativity of his universe have made him a global icon for gamers of all ages wanting to know more about his story.

Princess Peach is 11 years old^th with 27,179 page views. The second character from the Mario franchise to make the list, Peach is the female character in the game with the most appearances in the game.

Pokémon protagonist Ash Ketchum ranks 12th^th with 27,151 page views. Popularized in the animated series following the success of the original Pokémon games, Ash has become a beloved figure in pop culture.

Bowser claims 13^th place with 26,206 page views. The monstrous turtle-like creature and Mario and Luigi’s nemesis has captivated fans for decades. His character gained even more depth thanks to the Super Mario Bros. film.

In 14^th Taking place, with 24,593 page views, is Arthur Morgan, the protagonist of Red Dead Redemption 2. Arthur has received critical acclaim for his multi-faceted character, showcasing his vulnerability and moral struggles.

Leon Scott Kennedy, from the Resident Evil franchise, wins 15^th spot with 22,051 page views. Leon has appeared in several games, series and films, with his long history and evolving role making his Wikipedia page a treasure.

Top 15 most viewed video game characters on Wikipedia

Speaking about the findings, Gabriele Asaro, Head of SEO and Search at Clash.gg, commented: “It’s fascinating to see which characters made it to the top of the list and to think about what drives people to search for game characters on Wikipedia. Is it the need to discover their origins, delve into their history, or explore other media appearances?

“These results highlight how characters with depth and crossover appeal continue to intrigue fans. The influence of Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is particularly notable, placing four Sonic characters in the top ten and demonstrating how other media can greatly expand the reach of a gaming character.

“As we approach 2025, it will be exciting to see how major releases, like the highly anticipated GTA 6, or new film and television adaptations, influence the rankings. These developments have the potential to spotlight new characters and reignite interest in older ones, thereby redefining who fans want to know more about.