Top Video Game Dads for Father's Day
Here are some iconic video game dads and father-like figures to celebrate Father's Day.
Fatherhood can take many forms, especially in the world of video games. From post-apocalyptic survivors to gods of war, these characters show us what it means to be a dad, a protector, and sometimes, a hero.
"...these characters show us what it means to be a dad, a protector, and sometimes, a hero."
Here’s a look at some of the most memorable father figures in modern gaming and beyond.
Joel Miller - The Last of Us
Joel Miller’s journey in The Last of Us is heart-wrenching. After losing his daughter, Sarah, in the chaos of Outbreak Day, he is thrust into another paternal role when a militia group asks him to transport a mysterious girl, Ellie. As you progress, you learn more about her, and his bond with Ellie becomes the game’s emotional core as he fills the void left by his own lost daughter, showing that fatherhood is about more than blood relations.
Big Daddy - BioShock
The Big Daddies of BioShock are iconic protectors. These hulking figures, paired with the Little Sisters, show a bond that transcends their monstrous appearances, highlighting a father’s protective nature. Big Daddies roam the underwater city of Rapture, and their sole purpose is to safeguard the Little Sisters as they perform their duties.
Despite their intimidating presence and the powerful weapons they wield, their unwavering dedication to the Little Sisters truly defines them. They respond with unyielding ferocity only when their charges are threatened, showcasing a primal paternal instinct. This relationship is central to the player’s experience in BioShock.
You must choose whether to exploit the Little Sisters for your own gain or protect them, mirroring the protective role of the Big Daddies. This moral dilemma forces you to confront the nature of parenthood, sacrifice, and the lengths one will go to protect a child. Would you kindly be a good Dad? Protect the Little Sisters at all costs.
Kratos - God of War
Kratos from the God of War series has had a violent past, tricked by the Gods to do harm to his own family. As Kratos enters a new realm and is forced to atone for his sins, his relationship with his son Atreus is a powerful portrayal of growth and redemption. Kratos teaches Atreus how to survive while learning to control his rage, illustrating the complexities of fatherhood.
John Marston - Red Dead Redemption
John Marston’s story in Red Dead Redemption is about a deeply flawed man looking for redemption. He’s far from winning any “Dad of the Year” awards, but when the time comes to make the ultimate sacrifice for his family, he answers the bell. It might have been too little, too late, but his efforts to leave a life of crime for his family’s safety are a testament to finally understanding what it means to be a real father.
Bowser - The Mario Series
While Bowser is often seen kidnapping princesses, he’s also a caring dad to his son, Bowser Jr. Despite his villainous ways, Bowser’s paternal side emerges through his interactions with his son, showing that even the King of Koopas has a soft spot. He’s another flawed fictional dad, but throughout the iconic Mario series, besides Princess Peach, Bowser Jr. is the only person Bowser truly cares for and tries to make him a better person by learning from his many mistakes.
Lee Everett - The Walking Dead
Lee Everett is not Clementine’s biological father, but he might as well be. In The Walking Dead's point-and-click zombie apocalypse, Lee finds purpose in protecting and teaching Clementine, embodying the essence of fatherhood through sacrifice, guidance, and unconditional love.
Geralt Of Rivia - The Witcher
Geralt Of Rivia may be a ruthless, superhuman sword for hire, but his paternal bond with Ciri in The Witcher series shows a softer side. His protective instincts and mentorship make him an unforgettable father figure. Geralt traverses continents, faces off against brutal otherworldly monsters and battles with Kings to find Ciri and keep her safe.
Rost - Horizon Zero Dawn
Rost is a father figure to Aloy in Horizon Zero Dawn, helping her to become the warrior her world needs to survive. As an outcast himself, he raises Aloy with wisdom and compassion, preparing her for the challenges ahead with a father’s foresight and care.
Barret Wallace - Final Fantasy VII
Barret Wallace in Final Fantasy VII is a fighter with a cause, but his love for his adopted daughter, Marlene, truly defines him. His role as a father adds depth to his character, making him a beloved figure in the series.
Norman Osborn - Marvel’s Spider-Man Series
Norman Osborn may be a complicated character in Marvel’s Spider-Man series, but his love for his son Harry is undeniable. He’s a Father almost to a fault, inadvertently harming those around him and ultimately all of New York with “science experiments” that wreak havoc on the city. His actions are almost entirely driven by his desire to save his son, showcasing the lengths a father will go to for his child.
Nathan Drake - Uncharted
Nathan Drake from the Uncharted series may not start his adventures as a father, but his development throughout the saga leads him to a life where he values family over treasure, a true sign of a great dad. Will the Drake family begin their globe-trotting adventures once more as a family? Only time will tell.
Ethan Winters - Resident Evil
In the Resident Evil series, Ethan Winters’ love for his daughter Rosemary drives him to face unimaginable horrors. His determination to save her at all costs is the mark of a devoted father sacrificing everything for her safety.
Kazuma Kiryu - Yakuza
Kazuma Kiryu of the Yakuza series stands as a father to many. His role in the orphanage and relationship with Haruka showcase his nurturing and protective traits.
Harry Mason - Silent Hill
Harry Mason’s search for his adopted daughter in Silent Hill is a harrowing tale of a father’s love. His journey through the town’s nightmares is driven by his paternal instincts.
Sam Fisher - Splinter Cell
Sam Fisher, the protagonist of Splinter Cell, is a father first and a spy second. His relationship with his daughter Sarah grounds him, giving him a human side beyond his espionage skills.
Happy Father's Day!
Father figures in video games often go beyond the traditional roles, showing strength, vulnerability, and, above all, love. Many of these characters are an important reminder that being a dad isn’t just about biology; it’s about the choices we make and the lives we touch. Happy gaming and Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there, both real and those roaming around video game realms.
About the Author - Matthew "Dapper Tux" Rondina
Matthew has been involved in all things gaming since the 8-bit era. He is a veteran of the video game and tech industry who has been passionate about technology and gaming for over 20 years. Along with being the Managing Editor of dappertux.com, he has bylines with Best Buy, Cineplex Entertainment, Mobile Syrup and Walmart. Follow Matthew’s gaming + tech adventures on Twitter, Instagram and join in on the fun!
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