Misty - Pokémon
For me personally, Misty was one of the first and most prominent female video game characters in my life whilst growing up. Since my first Pokémon game, I have been loyal to water type Pokémon with my top 5 featuring icons such as Psyduck, Oshawott, Squirtle, Mudkip, and Piplup (yes, I choose my favourite Pokémon based on cuteness) and I think I have to give partial credit to Misty for that. Seeing Misty as the first female gym leader in Pokémon was so cool to me, and led to me being hooked on the franchise wanting to be the very best, like no one ever was ((horrible) pun intended).
Ellie - The Last of Us
Ellie is arguably one of the most iconic LGBTQ+ women in video game history. It is no argument that her presence in The Last of Us was revolutionary for the portrayal of women in video games. Not only is it so inspiring to see such a young woman tackle such harrowing situations, but her representation for LGBTQ+ women in such a large-scale franchise felt really empowering and welcoming for young women like her. It's almost comforting to see that there doesn't need to be big bold statements airing out her sexuality, but rather implied through odd moments in the game, because it shouldn't have to be made out as a big deal.
Kiyoko Kirigiri - Danganronpa
Kiyoko Kirigiri has one of my favourite designs amongst female video game characters, which may sound biased coming from someone who had light purple hair between the ages of 16 to 18. Her entire character is so well curated, even to the minute details of her wearing gloves due to the interesting lore behind her hands. Everything about Kiyoko Kirigiri is so mysterious from the player's first introduction to her as the 'Ultimate ???', which has made me desperate to learn more about her. I've always admired Kiyoko Kirigiri's intelligence and her ability to stay level-headed, even in a scenario where any of her peers could try to kill her at any moment.
Faith Connors - Mirror's Edge
A beautiful, cinematic game I feel nobody talks about anymore, Mirror's Edge. Released in 2008, I remember watching my older brother play this game for hours on end. Though I was only four, the fact that I can recall so much about this game in detail proves the long-lasting effects that it has had on my life. I was seriously convinced that there was nothing more cool in this world than a female protagonist, with an even cooler alias of Phoenix Carpenter, navigate various, sleek cityscapes. I also can't not mention Faith Connor's character design... I wish I could pull off an eyeliner look and a jet-black bob like hers.