10 Square Enix Characters We Can’t Stop Thinking About

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Ever since it started out as Enix back in 1975, this company has earned its title as a reigning powerhouse in the realm of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPG). Its esteemed creators have given us some groundbreaking games within the genre, including the legendary titles like “Final Fantasy VII” and “NieR: Automata”. Over the years, players have immersed themselves for hundreds of hours in these games. Though their gameplay may differ in terms of enjoyment and complexity, they consistently feature some of the most endearing characters that the JRPG world has seen. These characters have often been at the heart of some of the finest JRPG narratives ever conceived.

In addition to being renowned for their groundbreaking “Final Fantasy” series, Square Enix has also crafted a multitude of memorable characters across various franchises. Characters like Axel from “Kingdom Hearts” and Vivi from “Final Fantasy IX”, each with distinct personalities, have left indelible marks in gaming lore. Over the years, Square Enix has garnered recognition for their exceptional character development skills, making them one of the most iconic video game developers in history, and creators of some of the dearest JRPG characters ever.

A Tragic Hero With a Heart of Gold

Unfortunately, the complexity and vastness of this series can sometimes make it challenging to follow the sequence of events across the franchise. However, the intricate writing for each character never fails to impress, especially those like Xion who embodies the tragic hero archetype. As she uncovers her own identity, she defies her leaders’ wishes and forms a close bond with Sora and Roxas.

Xion is introduced as a part of Organization XIII, serving as a standby for Sora and Roxas due to her ability to assimilate their memories and powers. Yet what makes her truly captivating is that she goes against her assigned duties and develops strong bonds with the main characters. Her struggle with Axel is pivotal in Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days, adding emotional depth to Xion’s story, making her one of Square Enix’s most poignant characters.

The Disgraced Leader of North Corel

In the world of Final Fantasy VII, while Cloud Strife and Sephiroth undeniably command a significant spotlight, it’s essential to acknowledge the other delightful characters who have indelibly impacted the JRPG genre. Among these sidekicks, Barret Wallace stands out as particularly captivating due to his striking contrast with Cloud’s silent resilience and Aerith’s cheerful demeanor. Barret Wallace is characterized by a deep emotional depth that sets him apart, and his poignant backstory makes him an exceptionally endearing figure in the game.

In the game “Final Fantasy VII,” Barret Wallace emerges as a resolute leader of Avalanche, yet beneath his tough facade lies a wealth of emotion. His past, which involves unintentionally destroying North Corel under Shinra’s control and betraying his close friend Dyne, is perhaps the most compassionate aspect of the game, making Barret Wallace one of Square Enix’s most memorable character creations.

The Story of Glenn the Knight

Among all games, none quite match Chrono Trigger when it comes to engaging and diverse gameplay. Its unique blend of time travel within its narrative propels it into the realm of Science Fiction, a rarity among retro titles. One of Square Enix’s most enduring characters, Frog, originated from this game, and his peculiar tale has kept players revisiting Chrono Trigger since its debut in 1995.

Originally a human knight named Glenn, this character underwent a transformation that turned him into a frog, a transformation which has endeared him to gamers for years. Although he can take on various forms, it is his frog-like appearance that resonates with players, and his unwavering devotion to his personal objectives makes him an intriguing sidekick in the JRPG genre. Overall, Frog stands out as a fantastic party member in the world of JRPGs, and his captivating story places him among Square Enix’s most memorable characters.

Players Will Never Forget the Name of this Organization XIII Member

Characters known as antiheroes are frequently captivating figures in fiction due to their complex nature, which often involves them participating in or influencing both sides of a conflict. While this complexity can sometimes lead to problematic writing and confusion among fans about the character, it’s not an issue with the most beloved antihero ever created by Square Enix – Axel.

Axel, belonging to Organization XIII, initially might face significant struggles with Roxas and Sora. Yet, similar to Xion, he forms a bond with them and discovers that the objectives of Organization XIII are not as they seem. Throughout the Kingdom Hearts series, he often acts as an informant for Team Sora, helping them expose the nefarious schemes of this wicked group. Axel is a character who has been exceptionally well-crafted, and since his debut in Kingdom Hearts II back in 2005, he’s grown to be one of Square Enix’s most cherished characters among fans.

Square Enix Steps Out of the JRPG Genre

Though Square Enix is primarily recognized as a top JRPG creator, they occasionally venture beyond this genre to produce games that keep players hooked for years. One such example is the game “Life is Strange“, which many believe is one of the most relatable experiences Square Enix has ever crafted. The main character, Maxine Caulfield, is exceptionally well-written, and her unique abilities make her a highly intriguing protagonist.

In the game titled “Life is Strange“, players discover that the main character, Maxine Caulfield, possesses a unique ability: she can manipulate time and prevent certain events from unfolding prematurely. This talent makes her an exceptional detective, and the narrative of the game centers around her solving a perplexing disappearance. Although Maxine Caulfield may not be as well-known as other protagonists from Square Enix, she has become increasingly relatable to players over time, earning their admiration.

A Hero With the Weight of the World on His Shoulders

Previously, games within the “Final Fantasy” series seldom received a Mature rating from ESRB, making their protagonists more suited for teenage fans. However, this trend was broken by the latest installment in the franchise, as it presents players with the most mature character the series has ever offered. What’s captivating audiences is his authentic portrayal of dealing with real-life emotional issues.

In Final Fantasy XVI, Clive Rosfield grapples with his personal sorrow following the death of his mentor in combat, and assumes a heavy responsibility that comes with it. This ordeal sets Clive on an unforgettable journey to rescue the world from a malevolent force corrupting its magic. To put it simply, Clive Rosfield is a standout character in the Final Fantasy series, ranking among the most engaging protagonists in Square Enix’s collection.

A Time-Traveling Hero

Characters without dialogue in games can be captivating, but they may seem uninspired if the game’s storyline isn’t engaging. Yet, Square Enix skillfully crafted their renowned silent protagonist, Crono, and his time-traveling escapade is among the most impactful JRPG classics ever made.

In much the same way as many unspoken characters, Crono’s character is skillfully portrayed through his actions within the storyline. Across the tale, Crono embarks on a wide-ranging trip through time to defend a princess. Generally speaking, Crono may seem like a subdued hero to some, but his silent determination makes him more captivating than several other prominent Square Enix characters.

Sora’s Nobody Goes on an Epic Journey

Due to the vast scope of the Kingdom Hearts narrative, numerous characters in the series often lack substantial development, resulting in them fading from memory for many players. Yet, one indelible character from Square Enix’s roster stands out as memorable – Roxas has been crafted so skillfully that he has gained widespread popularity among fans over time.

Roxas, being Sora’s Nobody, frequently disappears for extended periods during the game. Yet, when he does appear, his scenes carry a profound impact, such as his battle with Axel in Kingdom Hearts II, which is one of the most emotionally charged moments in the series. In essence, Roxas is an exceptionally captivating character, and he stands out as the finest in the Kingdom Hearts universe.

The Tragedy of the Black Mage

Final Fantasy IX stands out as one of the cherished installments within the series, and it remains among Square Enix’s finest games even today. The game is packed with captivating characters, thrilling battles against formidable foes, and enchanting music, which together have made it an enduring adventure. One of the highlights of

Vivi comes off as somewhat reserved and timid, which only serves to endear him to the player. As the story unfolds and the players uncover Vivi’s heart-wrenching past and learn about the limited lifespan of Black Mages, their admiration for the character grows. By the game’s end, it’s clear that Vivi is an exceptional ally throughout the adventure, and he stands among the most memorable characters in the annals of JRPG lore.

An Intriguing Humanoid Robot

Square Enix shines brightest when their game stories carry a deeper significance, resonating with players. Yorha 2B, being a robot, is remarkably human-like, one of the most compelling characters Square Enix has fashioned to date. Her emotional journeys, coupled with her relationship with 9S in NieR: Automata, have contributed significantly to making her the most finely crafted character in their portfolio.

In the game “NieR: Automata,” character 2B grapples with her feelings and explores what it means to be human. This relatability enhances players’ engagement and adds depth to the narrative. To sum up, Yorha Unit 2B is a captivating character, and she stands out among Square Enix’s impressive roster of characters.

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2025-04-25 06:27