In virtually every iconic video game, while the protagonist basks in their limelight, the second banana remains quiet, moves the plot forward, assists with gameplay, and wins hearts—never getting a date with the spotlight. Although sidekicks may help background adventure and ubiquity, where playable characters reference them by name, fans often ask, "What if I could play as them?" This is relevant when considering turn-up games or services specifically designed for portable gaming, narrative-drawn gaming, or fan-made games using old retro iterations. So, while discussing iconic playable sidekicks, we will address who they are and what draws players to a game despite not being the protagonist.
Let's shine a light on beloved underplayed characters and the old spin-off titles we would have liked to have seen. No matter what all-star sidekick you choose, even though they can be warmly disloyal companions, comic relief in general, or complete beasts in disguise, they deserve a moment of fame. In this blog, we will feature iconic characters, describe the specific figures who are now relatable sidekicks, and hopefully improve on the narratives surrounding those sidekicks.
From Luigi to Tails, sidekicks have been an integral part of gaming history. They supplement the hero, fill gameplay gaps, and enrich worldbuilding. However, their roles were often restricted to aide, support, or vanish offscreen to allow for the real action.
However, game franchises have realized that sidekicks can become valuable assets to the player and the adventure. With the modern day's focus on character development, story arcs, and worldbuilding, the potential of many of these sidekicks is left dormant and waiting to come alive.
Before tackling the list, it is necessary to establish what qualifies as sidekick spin-off potential:
With that, we can move forward to our list of sidekicks that deserve their standalone game.
Luigi was already a breakout star and started as Mario’s timid twin but quickly became a fan favorite. Nintendo wisely gave him the Luigi’s Mansion series, proving that sidekicks can lead.
Why It Works:
Luigi’s anxious, reluctant hero energy offers a fresh lens on the Mushroom Kingdom. Luigi’s Mansion also showed that exploring dark, haunted locations with ghost-busting tools was a hit formula. He'd be on this list if Luigi hadn’t gotten his chance.
Spin-Off Potential:
High, and already realized—he’s the blueprint.
Miles “Tails” Prower is more than Sonic’s flying buddy. He’s an engineering genius, a kind soul, and perhaps the most competent. Yet he’s always playing second fiddle.
Why It Works:
Imagine a Ratchet & Clank-style tech-heavy adventure starring Tails. With gadgets, flight mechanics, and story-driven missions that test his intellect and courage, this could appeal to platformer fans and narrative lovers.
Spin-Off Potential:
Massive. He could even start a tech-savvy game franchise of his own.
Master Chief may get the guns and glory, but Cortana—the smart, evolving AI—delivers the emotional punch and philosophical complexity of the Halo universe.
Why It Works:
A Cortana-centric game could explore the emotional evolution of AI, moral dilemmas, and a digital world rich in puzzles, stealth, and hacking. It would also shift from brute-force action to cerebral, choice-based gameplay.
Spin-Off Potential:
Sky-high, especially as a unique mix of game storytelling and sci-fi worldbuilding.
Ratchet may carry the big guns, but Clank is the voice of reason—and the silent MVP. His smaller size and intellect could lead to a quieter, more strategic adventure.
Why It Works:
A Clank game could focus on infiltration, robotics, time manipulation, and mini-puzzle mechanics. His charming demeanor and deep moral compass would shine in solo gameplay.
Spin-Off Potential:
It already teased with Clank solo missions, but it is worthy of a full title.
Despite the series bearing her name, Zelda mostly takes a passive role—until Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom give her more depth.
Why It Works:
Zelda’s lore-rich origin, magical abilities, and struggles with fate and identity make her the perfect candidate for a standalone journey. Think ancient puzzles, transformation spells, and kingdom diplomacy.
Spin-Off Potential:
Enormous. The fan demand alone proves it.
One of the most captivating supporting roles in modern gaming, Elizabeth is a reality-bending powerhouse wrapped in a curious, empathetic character arc.
Why It Works:
A narrative-heavy experience that explores alternate dimensions, emotional trauma, and autonomy would resonate with fans of story-driven games. Plus, her unique powers offer brilliant gameplay mechanics.
Spin-Off Potential:
It's a cult classic in the making.
Everyone’s favorite four-legged companion is more than just a pet. Dog meat symbolizes loyalty, survival, and resilience in a post-apocalyptic world.
Why It Works:
Imagine a side-scrolling or third-person game from Dogmeat’s POV—tracking scents, scavenging, and navigating the wasteland. It would bring a fresh, emotionally driven take on the Fallout world.
Spin-Off Potential:
Quirky and heartwarming. Think Stray meets Fallout.
A melancholic mage with an identity crisis, Vivi stands out as one of Final Fantasy's most poignant, underappreciated characters.
Why It Works:
A prequel-style adventure through Vivi’s mysterious origins, grappling with consciousness, mortality, and friendship, could blend JRPG mechanics with emotional storytelling.
Spin-Off Potential:
It's a cult emotional RPG that could rival Undertale in resonance.
Diddy has always been in DK’s shadow, yet his skills and charm were undeniable in Diddy Kong Racing—a cult favorite.
Why It Works:
Bring back Diddy in a modern 3D action-adventure platformer with jetpacks, bananas, and attitude. A vibrant, upbeat game world with his agility would appeal to younger audiences and nostalgic fans alike.
Spin-Off Potential:
Strong—especially with the right tone and level design.
Sniper, strategist, and fan-favorite—Garrus is the brooding sidekick every space RPG needs. But he’s long overdue for a starring role.
Why It Works:
A gritty intergalactic noir game with Garrus as a rogue detective could explore the darker side of the Mass Effect universe. Combine tactical combat with ethical dilemmas, and you've got a winner.
Spin-Off Potential:
It is mature, compelling, and likely a massive hit with Mass Effect veterans.
Beyond novelty, giving sidekick characters their games enriches the gaming ecosystem. Here’s how:
Ultimately, these games honor character development, game storytelling, and fans' desire to see more than just the protagonist’s view.
Games like Luigi’s Mansion, Diddy Kong Racing, and Uncharted: The Lost Legacy (featuring Chloe Frazer) prove that supporting roles can carry entire titles. Studios should:
Many sidekicks aren’t just companions but symbols of loyalty, growth, and hidden strength. By giving them their space, developers reward longtime players and explore new depths of game storytelling.
Sidekicks remind us that greatness doesn’t always shout—it sometimes supports, heals, jokes, or watches from the wings. And when the spotlight finally finds them, they often shine brighter than expected.
This content was created by AI