A few months ago, we had an exciting MMO Super Women discussion about what essential elements create memorable female protagonists. We asked you to name the women characters from MMOs that made an impression on you. As a result, we compiled your votes into the following ten MMORPGs. Enjoy, and be sure to add any additional female favorite heroes in the comments below!
10. DC Universe - Oracle
After being crippled by the Joker during the Killing Joke storyline, Oracle, the alter ego of Barbara Gordon, emerged. Oracle uses all kinds of high-end technology to help other super-heroes by operating a worldwide communications network. Players describe Oracle as her own breed of dorky and endearing.
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9. City of Heroes – Desdemona and Ms. Liberty
Desdemona, a demon-summoning Mastermind who lost her mother and grew up under a strict disciplinarian father, faces a path full of tyranny and destruction. However, her future holds surprise interactions that could lead her down a new road of loyalties.
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Ms. Liberty prides herself on taking up the fight to protect not just Paragon City but the world. She is heavily involved in the recruitment and training of heroes. She is an expert in several forms of martial arts. The magic belt passed down by her mother enhances Ms. Liberty’s strength and resistance to damage.
8. Lord of the Rings Online – Narmeleth
Narmeleth wielded the sword that slew Amarthiel, but eventually Narmeleth was possessed by Amarthiel’s everlasting power. Narmeleth’s storyline of a tragic fate challenges even the most strong willed and loyal of warriors.
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7. Star Wars the Old Republic - Kaliyo Djannis
Kaliyo Djannis’s storyline is full of mystery. Her loyalties may turn on anyone that poses a threat. She is quick with a blaster and was taught at a young age to admire power, strength, and glory.
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6. Star Wars Galaxies - Mara Jade
Mara Jade follows a complex storyline. As a puppet forced to follow Palpatine’s telepathic commands, Mara Jade fights an internal battle full of rage, vengeance, and the wish to kill Luke Skywalker. In a turbulent turn of events, Mara goes from wanting to kill Luke Skywalker to helping him escape.
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5. EverQuest - Firiona Vie
A high elf in Norrath’s history, a swordmaiden and Chosen of Tunara, Firiona Vie is a central figure in EverQuest. She is an explorer and adventurer and her fierce abilities capture much attention, though the specter of darkness looms over her future.
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4. World of Warcraft - Sylvannas Windrunner
Sylvannas Windrunner caught player’s attention with an intricate storyline of tragedy and death. Sylvannas was murdered by the death knight Arthas and brought back as a creature of the undead. However, Sylvannas does not yield to being a victim for long and uses her fearlessness and cunning to outwit even the most powerful foes. Her determination to survive helps her through unbearable circumstances.
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3. Final Fantasy - Lightning, Lion, and Prishe
Lightning ensues a long and complex storyline, which reflect her changing roles and evolving personality.
Lion comes across as knowledgeable and caring and has a conscientious and loyal demeanor. She has a steady hand, strength and compassion, and is a natural leader and always holds hope for others.
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Prishe mysteriously does not age causing many to label her a demon. Prishe is a tomboy well known for her impulsiveness attitude and forthrightness.
2. Guild Wars 2 - Caithe
While most Sylvari are creatures of light, Caithe often gazes into darkness to seek truths others fear.
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1. The Secret World - Kirsten Geary
Kirsten Geary surprises most people she encounters. She may come from the ordinary background of an innocent Valley Girl, but she has learned how to exploit weaknesses in her foes. She can be loyal and caring but also impatient and ruthless.
Other honorable mentions for female characters outside of MMOs included Mass Effect’s Commander Jenna Shepard and Liara T’Soni, Darkstalkers series’ Morrigan Aensland, Starcraft’s Sarah Kerrigan, X-men’s Storm, Mystique, and Rogue, as well as Lara Croft, Wonder Woman, and Cat Woman.
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Memorable heroes offer us a glimpse into the role of incredible warriors, intelligent technicians, and tactical magicians. These footsteps lead down a path of righteousness that we can all hope to explore one day.
Let’s connect! Find me at GeneseDavis.com, on Facebook, Google + and Twitter. Until then, I hope to see you at one of my next appearances: Genese Davis, 2014 National Tour
Bimonthly, Holder’s Dominion author Genese Davis opines about MMO gaming, the issues the genre faces, and the power of shaping online worlds.
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