Grand Theft Auto games have consistently given us some of the iconic characters in gaming history. Leading the charge of all the GTA epics are the fascinating protagonists. GTA protagonists fall on a wide spectrum of morality. The evolution of these characters gives the narrative of the game depth while simultaneously making the gameplay extremely fun. Ever wondered who is the most engaging GTA protagonist of all time? Gamerspool is here to answer that question! From the gritty streets of Liberty City to the vibrant streets of Vice City. Let’s take a look at some of the best GTA protagonists of all time.
Top 8 GTA Protagonists Of All Time
- Claude
Claude’s journey in Liberty City begins in 2001 after being double-crossed by his girlfriend Catalina after a heist. His quest for revenge makes up for the story of GTA 3. The mute protagonist of GTA 3, Claude is considered to be one of the most evil protagonists in GTA history. His silent demeanor, cold determination, and survival instincts make him come across as a ruthless character. A key character trait of Claude that makes him stand out is his lack of emotion. His indifference and detachment complement the overall mood of the GTA 3 making him an incredible protagonist.
- Johnny Klebitz
Johnny Klebitz is the protagonist of GTA: The Lost and Damned the first expansion pack of GTA 4. Johnny is the leader of The Lost Motorcycle Club. Voiced by Scott Hill, Johnny’s story revolves around balancing his loyalty to the Lost motorcycle club with his personal desires and ambitions. Hoping to help his former partner, Johnny finds himself in numerous difficult situations, struggling to hold the gang together while trying to get Ashley the help she needs. His trials and tribulations in the underbelly of Liberty City’s underworld make him a fascinating and engaging GTA protagonist.
- Franklin
Franklin is one of the three protagonists in GTA 5. His rags-to-riches story makes it easy for us to root for him. He often finds himself playing the mediator between Michael and Trevor’s rivalry. His fierce loyalty and drive are his defining character traits. Franklin’s story explores themes of class, race, and the American Dream making him one of the best protagonists in Grant Theft Auto.
- Michael De Santa
Speaking of GTA 5, Michael De Santa is one of the most popular GTA protagonists in the GTA community. After a botched heist, is forced to relocate to Los Santos and resume his criminal activities. His character is marked by his troubles to keep his family together while dealing with the guilt of his past life and the consequences of his criminal activities. His character flaws combined with his quick wit and sarcasm make him a fan-favorite character.
- Trevor
Masterfully voiced by Steven Ogg, Trevor is the quintessential GTA protagonist. He is violent, unhinged, and chaotic which makes his character both fascinating and disturbing. Despite having major flaws he is fiercely loyal to the people he loves and goes to lengths for them. Trevor’s story explores themes of violence, trauma, and the human psyche.
Tommy
Tommy Vercetti is a mafia hitman who is sent to Vice City in the 80s to build a drug empire. Voiced by the legendary Ray Liotta, Tommy Vercetti’s story captures the world of crime during the vibrant and decadent era of the 1980s, embodying the spirit of the time through its music, fashion, and pop culture references. His story has resonated with gamers for over 2 decades making him one of the most iconic characters in gaming history.
- CJ
Carl Johnson is easily one of the most relatable characters on this list. Carl Johnson returns to Los Santos after his mother’s death only to find himself entangled in gang wars and a corrupt system that leaves him fighting for survival. CJ easily has one of the best origin stories of all GTA protagonists. Even if you are not a gamer, it is easy to recognize Carl Johnson due to the amount of memes and references to GTA San Andreas in the online space. CJ’s iconic line, “Ah sh**t, here we go again,” is easily one of the most famous lines from any Grand Theft Auto game.
- Niko Bellic
Niko Bellic, the protagonist of GTA 4, hails from an unnamed war-torn Eastern European country. His early life was shaped by the horrors of the Yugoslav Wars, where he served as a soldier and witnessed brutal atrocities. The trauma of war, combined with the betrayal of his army unit by one of their own, deeply scarred Niko. He arrives in Liberty City in order to get a fresh start only to be tangled in the underworld of Liberty City. His rise in the underworld of the Libert City is a commentary on the dark side of the American dream.
Who is your favorite GTA protagonist? Let us know in the comments!