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Video game mascots are some of the most iconic in modern media. Between characters like Mario, Sonic, Master Chief, and many more, these figures are hugely recognizable. However, some characters have often helped these mascots get to where they are today. These underrated sidekicks are some of video games’ most unsung heroes. While the protagonist gets all the glory and praise, more often than not, these sidekicks are left in the dust. However, today we are going to shed some light on these wonderful deuteragonists. Here is a list of the best video game sidekicks that deserve more recognition.
10. Bottles (Banjo-Kazooie series)
First up, we have Bottles from the Banjo-Kazooie series. Sadly, though Bottles is arguably the most helpful character in the game, providing many tutorials for the player, he often falls as the butt of every joke throughout the experience. Additionally, the character is killed off in the second game, making Bottles one of the best, yet underrated, video game sidekicks.
9. Luigi (Mario Series)
Although Luigi is an obvious choice, he has been receiving more and more recognition throughout the years. With that being said, the green plumber still fails to receive the same amount of hype as his brother. Once again, though this is played as a joke in many of the games, it would be nice to see Luigi get a little more attention.
8. Navi (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time)
Although Navi can be a bit annoying at times, the fairy is still one of the best sidekicks Link has had. Navi provides tons of useful information for the player, as well as being the physical embodiment of this entry’s targeting system. Sadly, Navi’s voice and constant badgering will prevent her from getting the recognition she deserves as one of the best sidekicks in video games.
7. Cappy (Super Mario Odyssey)
Although Mario is a great character in his own right, he’s had a lot of help over the years. This includes help from Cappy, a Bonneter who assisted him throughout Super Mario Odyssey. While Cappy is full of life and personality in that game, many people forget about the character, since he takes the form of a hat.
6. Morgana (Persona 5)
Morgana in Persona 5 is an amazing sidekick for the Phantom Thieves and one of the best in video game history. However, much like Navi, his constant tutorials and higher-pitched voice prevent fans from recognizing this greatness. However, playing Persona 5, you get to see just how much depth the cat has.
5. Tails (Sonic the Hedgehog)
Much like Luigi, Tails is another classic video game sidekick that, while being popular, still deserves more attention. Due to Tails’ more reserved personality compared to Sonic, many players can overlook his better qualities. However, at the very least, Tails makes many appearances throughout the series and is well-liked.
4. Yoshi (Mario Series)
Yet another partner to Mario, Yoshi is arguably the most underappreciated and best of the video game sidekick bunch. Yoshi, though he has saved Mario since he was a child, is treated rather poorly by the plumber. Infamously, many Yoshis are sacrificed into pits to give Mario an extra jump. Being a mount for Mario is rough, and Yoshi is one of the best sidekicks that deserves more recognition.
3. The Star Fox Crew (Star Fox series)
Sadly, although the game wouldn’t be the same without them, the Star Fox crew is often overshadowed by Fox. Being the namesake of the game, Fox is the first character that comes to mind when thinking about Star Fox. But characters like Falco, Slippy, and Peppy deserve much more attention than what they receive and are some of the best video game sidekicks.
2. Proto Man (Mega Man Series)
While more of a rival than a sidekick, Proto Man is one of the best characters in the Mega Man series. Proto Man is heavily underutilized throughout the games and deserves way more appearances than he’s given. With such an amazing theme and unique personality, it’s sad to think that Proto Man will always be stuck in Mega Man’s shadow.
1. Diddy Kong (Donkey Kong Series)
Finally, the best, and most underrated, sidekick in video game history would have to be Diddy Kong. Diddy Kong and Donkey Kong have an amazing dynamic and chemistry throughout their series. However, in more recent years, Diddy Kong has become less and less utilized. With only a short cameo in The Super Mario Bros. Movie, hopefully, Nintendo will start to bring the character back more.
