GTA is arguably one of the most legendary series in gaming, repeatedly proving why it is so popular. The series has created some of the most recognizable protagonists in the industry, with even supporting characters being memorable.
With GTA VI approaching, I think now is the perfect time to rank the protagonists of past GTA games to see who stands out as the best in the series. It’s not an easy task, as we’re talking about central characters from some of the finest games in history.
Looking back at 30 years of gaming history, which GTA protagonist stands out as the best? Let’s take a look. This ranking is largely subjective. If you have your own ranking of GTA characters, consider where you would place them.
11. Victor Vance (Vice City Stories)
Vic Vance initially appeared as a secondary character in Vice City, and later, his own story was fully told in what could be considered a prequel, Vice City Stories. To support his family, he became involved in the dirty criminal underworld of Vice City. Although the game starring him told a decent story, it didn’t have a particularly profound impact, hence its placement here.
10. Johnny Klebitz (The Lost and Damned)
When GTA still released true narrative expansions, players met Johnny Klebitz. As part of GTA IV’s expansive story, Johnny starred in The Lost and Damned. This dark expansion centered around an illegal motorcycle club, filled with brotherhood, loyalty, and the ever-present shadow of a gruesome death.
9. Tommy Vercetti (Vice City)
Tommy Vercetti is an iconic character from the PlayStation 2 era. Rising from the heart of Vice City, he is one of the most ruthless and stubborn characters in the GTA series. As a former Mafia hitman, Vercetti has all the skills needed to survive in this line of work, and many hope to see him return in GTA VI.
8. Claude (GTA III)
Claude is a silent protagonist. He debuted with the series’ first 3D game, GTA III, ushering in a new era of gaming. This title changed the paradigm of open-world adventure games. Although Claude never speaks a word, he remains one of the most influential protagonists in GTA history.
7. Luis Lopez (The Ballad of Gay Tony)
Luis Lopez is a briefly featured protagonist in the GTA series, making his first appearance in the GTA IV expansion, The Ballad of Gay Tony. For many players, The Ballad of Gay Tony surpasses GTA IV because it expanded the game content after release and even offered more multiplayer features—provided you owned the base GTA IV game.
Lopez is far from a bad character, but he is easily forgettable, despite playing a significant role in one of the highest-rated GTA games. That said, his contributions and the changes he brought to the story are indeed impressive.
6. Franklin Clinton (GTA V)
Franklin Clinton has always been more of a follower than a leader. He first followed Lamar Davis, then Michael De Santa. However, his exceptional talents allowed him to shine in GTA V. He eventually broke free from his circumstances, becoming a street legend in a relatively short time, earning millions, moving to Vinewood Hills, and participating in massive heists.
5. Trevor Philips (GTA V)
Trevor Philips is insanely crazy, but he is also the most entertaining protagonist in GTA history. His uncontrollable rage creates many hilarious moments. Despite his outrageously volatile temper, he is a highly talented marksman and can display a calm, calculating side when doing business. These traits make him such an outstanding GTA protagonist.
4. Toni Cipriani (Liberty City Stories)
Toni Cipriani is one of the few characters to appear in more than one GTA title. He was a major character in GTA III and served as the protagonist in Liberty City Stories.
He is a key figure in the Leone Crime Family of Liberty City. Toni is fiercely loyal and an excellent fighter. He left his mark on the series, proving that one can be both a family man and a made man in the Mafia.
3. Michael De Santa (GTA V)
In many ways, Michael De Santa is the main driving force behind the story of GTA V. He is the spark that sets off a chain of events, snowballing into a grand adventure experienced by hundreds of millions of players. Despite his age, he remains a skilled criminal with astonishing proficiency in handling various weapons.
He is also a master thief with strong personal charisma. More importantly, he realizes his responsibility to help young people grow and become better individuals.
2. Carl "CJ" Johnson (San Andreas)
Carl Johnson first met players in 2004’s GTA: San Andreas, eventually becoming one of the most iconic protagonists in GTA history.
He is someone who thinks of his family above all else, a kind-hearted yet ruthless warrior. He wants the best for those closest to him. Versatile and charismatic, his journey across San Andreas transformed him from a backstreet gang member into a legend of the series.
1. Niko Bellic (GTA IV)
In 2008’s GTA IV, players encountered a darker, more serious tone, quite different from the style they had grown accustomed to and loved in the series. However, the game was a huge success, securing Niko Bellic’s place in the GTA series.
There are many good reasons why Niko Bellic tops the list of best GTA protagonists. First, his unwavering dedication to protecting family and friends gives him noble qualities. He acts with the best intentions in Everythinggj he does. Even when he kills to protect his loved ones, players somehow still find it hard not to like him.
He is a mysterious character with a rich backstory, possessing a past that players are eager to explore. His journey through Liberty City is nothing short of epic. Starting as an immigrant just stepping off a cargo ship, he rises to become one of the most respected and feared criminal figures in the city.
The game starring him also ushered in a new era for the series, showing us new possibilities for the future of GTA. Leveraging new technology, this title pushed the boundaries of the series further than ever before.
This is why I believe he is the best protagonist in the GTA series.