New Poll Reveals Lara Croft as the “Most Iconic” Video Game Character

Lara Croft, the beloved protagonist of the Tomb Raider series, has surpassed iconic figures like Super Mario and Sonic the Hedgehog to claim the title of the most iconic video game character of all time, according to a recent poll conducted by the British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA).

In this survey, which garnered input from over 4,000 gamers worldwide, Lara Croft emerged as the top choice, recognized as a “generation-spanning heroine” by BAFTA. Since her debut in the original Tomb Raider game in 1996, Lara Croft has become synonymous with video game excellence.

The groundbreaking nature of the original Tomb Raider game, released across PC, PlayStation, and the Sega Saturn platforms, revolutionized the gaming industry by offering players expansive open-world environments with minimal guidance on progression. Over the years, players have embarked on thrilling adventures alongside Lara Croft, exploring diverse locales such as Egyptian pyramids and Tibetan mountains.

With a total of 19 Tomb Raider games released as of 2023, the franchise continues to captivate audiences. To celebrate Lara Croft’s enduring legacy, the first three games in the series were reissued as remasters on February 14, coinciding with the character’s birthday.

Beyond gaming, Lara Croft has transcended into other forms of media, including blockbuster films featuring actresses Angelina Jolie and Alicia Vikander in the titular role. Furthermore, Netflix is set to launch an exciting new anime series titled “Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft” later this year.

Reflecting on Lara Croft’s impact, Shelley Blond, the original voice actress for the character, emphasized her significance as a symbol of female empowerment and resilience. Blond highlighted Lara’s status as the first female lead in a major video game, as well as her recognition in prestigious forums like the Walk of Game in San Francisco and the Guinness World Records.

Additionally, Blond expressed gratitude for the heartfelt connections fans have shared with Lara Croft over the years, citing stories of empowerment, escapism, and nostalgia that resonate with gamers worldwide.

In addition to Lara Croft, the poll recognized other beloved characters such as Pac-Man, Baldur’s Gate 3’s Astarion, and The Last of Us’ Ellie Williams. These characters, along with their respective games, have collectively garnered 44 BAFTA Games Awards over the past two decades, solidifying their status as enduring icons in the realm of video game history.