FEATURE | From John Marston to Joel: The Most Memorable and Remarkable Video Game Dads

FATHERHOOD is a complicated, messy, and often heartwarming journey, and nowhere is that more true than in the world of video games. While it's true that many games tend to portray fathers in a less-than-flattering light, there are still plenty of examples of video game dads who've raised the bar when it comes to parenting.

Here are ten of the most remarkable and memorable video game dads in recent years, and the ways in which they've made us laugh, cry, and feel inspired:

John Marston from Red Dead Redemption

John Marston may be a gruff and world-weary gunslinger, but when it comes to his son Jack, he's a fiercely devoted father. Despite the challenges of living on the frontier and the dangerous world of outlaw gangs, John always puts his family first and never hesitates to risk his own life to protect his son.

Chuck Rock from Chuck Rock

Chuck Rock may not be the most well-known video game dad, but he's certainly one of the most charming. This lovable caveman dad is on a mission to rescue his wife, Ophelia, from the clutches of the evil Garry Gritter, and he'll stop at nothing to save her. Along the way, he sets a great example for his son, Junior, teaching him the value of family and courage.

Kazuma Kiriyu from the Yakuza series

Kazuma Kiryu from the Yakuza series is another dad who deserves recognition. He is often referred to as the "Dragon of Dojima" but for his daughter, Haruka, he is a caring and protective father figure. Despite being a former member of the yakuza, Kiryu is a responsible and devoted father who will stop at nothing to protect his daughter. He teaches her important life lessons and is always there to support her in her endeavors, even if it means putting himself in danger. Later on in the series, this tough-as-nails Yakuza boss also became a caring and devoted father figure to the orphans in his care. Despite his brutal lifestyle, he's committed to protecting and guiding the young people in his care, teaching them the importance of loyalty, honor, and respect.

Michael De Santa from GTA V

Michael De Santa may not be a perfect dad, but he's certainly come a long way since his days as a bank robber. Despite his checkered past, he's a fiercely protective father who'll do anything to keep his family safe. He's not afraid to admit his mistakes and learn from them, and he's always there to support his children, even when they make poor choices. He is a retired criminal after all trying to reconnect with his family and be a good role model for his kids. He may have made some mistakes in the past, but he is willing to make amends and do whatever it takes to keep his family safe. He even goes so far as to pull off a daring heist to protect his family and secure their future.

Lee Everet from the Walking Dead

Lee Everet may not be Clementine's biological father, but he steps up to the role in a big way after the zombie apocalypse. He's a loving and caring mentor to the young girl, teaching her important survival skills and guiding her through the dangers of the post-apocalyptic world. He'll do anything to protect her, and their bond is one of the most heartwarming in all of gaming.

Johnny Cage from Mortal Kombat X and MK11

Johnny Cage may be a bit of a showboating Hollywood actor, but when it comes to his daughter Cassie, he's all business. He's a proud and protective dad who takes his role as a mentor and guide very seriously. He's a bit of a softie when it comes to his daughter's achievements, and he's not afraid to show it.

Kratos & Atreus from God of War

Kratos may not be the warmest and fuzzy dad out there, but he's certainly one of the most interesting. After the death of his wife and the birth of his son Atreus, he's forced to confront his past and find a way to be a better father. Along the way, he teaches his son important life lessons, battles fearsome monsters, and struggles with his own emotions.

Bowser & Bowser Jr. from Super Mario Bros.

Bowser, the king of the Koopa Kingdom, may not be the typical loving dad, but he does have a soft spot for his son, Bowser Jr. He's fiercely protective of his child, and even goes so far as to kidnap Princess Peach for Bowser Jr.'s entertainment. But despite his villainous ways, Bowser Jr. knows that his dad always has his back, even if it means engaging in a little Mario-tossing every now and then.

Geralt of Rivia from the Witcher

Geralt of Rivia, the titular Witcher, is a father figure to Ciri, a young princess he rescued from certain death. The two share a deep bond that is equal parts protective and nurturing. Geralt may be tough and gruff, but when it comes to Ciri, his heart is all soft and gooey. He'll do anything to keep her safe, even if it means facing off against hordes of monsters and powerful foes.

Joel from the Last of Us

Joel is a survivor in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies. He's been through a lot and has lost a lot, but when he meets Ellie, a young girl who may hold the key to humanity's survival, everything changes. Joel becomes a surrogate father to Ellie, teaching her survival skills and protecting her at all costs. Their bond is tested time and time again, but through it all, Joel's love for Ellie remains unwavering.

All of these video game dads have their own unique style of fatherhood, from protective and nurturing to tough and gruff. But one thing is for sure, they all share an unbreakable bond with their children that will stand the test of time, and show us that even in the toughest of circumstances, it's possible to be a loving and devoted father.  — Geeks Republika