Video games have birthed an array of mythical races, among which the elves reign supreme. These mystical beings possess an allure that can be seen in the most popular fantasy games of all time. Elves often possess Ancient wisdom, graceful prowess, and snobbish charm, but many of them can differ massively depending on their setting.
These timeless characters (sometimes literally) showcase their unique traits, narratives, and the undeniable magic they bring to players' adventures. Those who come across an elf while playing a video game can usually expect to be entranced by their elegance and immersed in their lore.
10 Ayrenn Arana Aldmeri - The Elder Scrolls Online
Ayrenn Arana Aldmeri, also known as the Unforeseen Queen, is the High Queen of the Summerset Isles and the Altmer leader of the Aldmeri Dominion in The Elder Scrolls Online. Her intriguing backstory adds to her mystique. As a young Altmer (high elf), she vanished from the Summerset Isles only to return 17 years later to claim her throne.
Ayrenn's innovative leadership and determination make her a compelling figure in the game. She acted fast and decisively in her leadership when she established the First Aldmeri Dominion, a union between Summerset Isles, Valenwood, and Elsweyr, despite the pushback she had from her own people.
9 Firiona Vie - EverQuest
Firiona Vie, the iconic face of EverQuest and also the iconic face of Everquest lore, is known as the revered "Mother of All." She represents the power and beauty of the elven race. Her image, with long blond hair and striking blue armor, graces the cover of every EverQuest expansion, symbolizing her pivotal role in the game's epic quests. Firiona is a skilled ranger and has fought valiantly in numerous battles throughout the series.
As the daughter of King Tearis Thex of Felwithe, Firiona's lineage is important to her standing in the world of Everquest, and despite the series being sometimes forgotten in the annals of video game history, Firiona still stands out as one of the best video game elves out there.
8 Shadowheart - Baldur's Gate 3
Shadowheart, a half-elf cleric of Shar, is a loyal and devoted follower of the Mistress of the Night. In Baldur's Gate 3, she embarks on a perilous mission to deliver a powerful relic to her coven in Baldur's Gate, wanting to prove herself to the dark mistress, sometimes to her own disadvantage, and often turning on those who question her faith. Shadowheart holds Selune and her followers in contempt, and her association with the village of Moonhaven hints at a deeper connection to ancient battles. After being captured and infused with an illithid tadpole, she awakens with newfound powers, grappling with both uncontrollable magic and her unwavering faith.
Focused and determined, she is not easily swayed from her goals and values her privacy and personal boundaries. The player learns a lot about Shadowheart on their journey and can either gain her trust and respect for her faith or question her reliability to the party at every turn. Shadowheart is a complex character who, despite coming off as snobbish and entitled, has a lighter side to be uncovered.
7 Arator the Redeemer - World of Warcraft
World of Warcraft's Arator the Redeemer, also known as Arator Windrunner, comes from a mixed elf-human background. His mother is Alleria Windrunner, an expert elven ranger, and his father is Turalyon, a brave human paladin. Arator follows in his father's footsteps and becomes a paladin too. His main goals are to find his missing parents and support Danath Trollbane and the Sons of Lothar.
Later on, Arator joins a group called the Order of the Silver Hand. He became a strong leader among the Knights of the Silver Hand. When he finally meets his parents again on Argus, he faces new challenges but also has a chance to heal old wounds.
6 Solas - Dragon Age: Inquisition
Solas is an elven apostate mage with deep knowledge of the Fade in Dragon Age: Inquisition. Although he grew up in a small village, he does not identify as Dalish or a city elf. He is self-taught, mastering his magical abilities and dedicating himself to studying the mysteries of the Fade, and his unique magical tricks, like lucid dreaming and manipulating Veil rifts, make him very valuable to the player's party.
Solas holds a moderate view on the plight of the elves, believing in the inherent right of all free-willed beings to exist. Despite his attempts to share his knowledge, he often faces skepticism and is seen as a liar and madman.
5 Sylvanas Windrunner - World of Warcraft
Sylvanas Windrunner, also known as the Dark Lady and the Banshee Queen, is a significant character in World of Warcraft. She used to lead Silvermoon and fought bravely against the Scourge, but a death knight named Arthas Menethil took her soul, turning her into an angry banshee. When the Lich King's control weakened, she broke free and created the Forsaken, a strong group of undead.
She became the leader of the Horde but had problems and was not trusted by her allies. Sylvanas made a deal with the Jailer and tried to take over lands, collecting souls for her new friend. She is a complex and dark character, and her story is really important in Warcraft's history.
4 Eredin - The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Eredin Bréacc Glas, known as the King of the Wild Hunt, is a formidable Aen Elle elf. He led the Wild Hunt, a group of spectral riders, on raids across different worlds to capture slaves. He is constantly on Geralt's tail, attempting to raid the world of The Witcher and blight the land.
He became obsessed with capturing Ciri, a young princess with powerful elder blood, as she possessed the key to his ambitions. Eredin's pursuit of Ciri led to confrontations with Geralt of Rivia and the defenders of Kaer Morhen. As Geralt, the player fiercely tries to protect Ciri from the ever-looming threat of Eredin and his Wild Hunt.
3 Merrill - Dragon Age
Merrill, a Dalish elven mage, is a complex character in the Dragon Age series. Born into the Alerion clan, In Dragon Age: Origins, she aids the Warden in showcasing her knowledge of elven lore and magic; in Dragon Age 2, her obsession with restoring an Eluvian leads her down a dangerous path, dabbling in blood magic and causing tension within her clan.
Despite facing scorn and opposition, Merrill joins Hawke's party and can become a romance option. Her romance offers both friendship and rivalry paths, as she struggles with the disapproval of her clan and her love for Hawke. Merrill's journey is one of personal growth, sacrifice, and the pursuit of elven knowledge.
2 Princess Zelda - The Legend of Zelda
Zelda, the eponymous character of The Legend of Zelda series, is a central figure in almost every installment. Her appearance varies in age, from child to young adult. Princess Zelda possesses wisdom beyond her years and exhibits a deep love for her people.
As the keeper of the Triforce of Wisdom, Zelda is chosen by destiny to protect Hyrule. She possesses both magical and physical abilities, such as telepathy, prophetic visions, and archery skills. Her role as a sage and her connection to the Light Spirits showcase her extraordinary capabilities. With her grace, wisdom, and divine bloodline, Princess Zelda plays a vital role in the legends of Hyrule.
1 Link - The Legend of Zelda
Link, the legendary hero of The Legend of Zelda series, has been portrayed in various incarnations throughout the games. He is an ordinary boy or young man, who becomes a courageous hero. Often equipped with the Master Sword and Hylian Shield, Link embarks on epic quests to save the world from evil. He quickly demonstrates a natural talent for combat, adapting to a wide range of weapons and tools, including the Boomerang and Bow.
Link can learn advanced sword techniques and masterful movesets, showcasing his growth as a warrior. His abilities extend beyond combat, and each of his incarnations possesses unique skills and strengths, shaped by his upbringing and the challenges he faced.