Who Are the Most Influential Pop Culture Gaming Characters From the Last Decade?


Video games. They've been around for so long; only improving with newer technology. Even non-gamers will recognise these characters, as they become prominent in popular culture. And, this is evident in gaming merchandise also. But, who are the most influential characters in video games of the last decade? Find out more here.


Minecraft

Though not a character, the concept of Minecraft has been influential in the last decade. Cited as one of the greatest video games of all time, Minecraft really doe snot have a narrative; rather players can use their own imagination and build worlds.

Enhance your gaming experience with the addition of cosplay weapons. No Minecraft is complete without the Diamond Sword or Diamond Pickaxe. Whether this is for events such as comic con, to complete a cosplay, or just for your own gaming merchandise collection. These are ideal for any gaming fan.


Master Chief

First released in 2001, the science fiction video game series, Halo, has released various games over the last decade; following protagonist Master Chief. This iconic Spartan has never revealed his appearance, but his recognisable armour has still managed to front the series. Master Chief also has his own live-action series that will be released on Paramount+, starring Pablo Schreiber.

At Next Level, we make sure to stock the latest gaming merchandise for the Halo series. Check out this rare pop vinyl of Master Chief, accompanied by his trusty Cortana. Or, if you are interested in cosplay weapons, we also stock the Energy Plasma Sword from Halo Covenant. Perfect or any cosplaying or LARP events.


Link

Similar to Master Chief, Link from The Legend of Zelda series manifests the selfless protagonist trope and goes on a hero's journey. Each game introduces a fresh version of the hero, who is forced into a crisis and has no recollection of the series' previous cycles. Though the character has been around since the 80s, Link has only been enhanced and improved over the last decade. 

So, why not complete your look with full armour? For your next comic con, use Link's Hylian Shield and rare collectable Twilight Princess Sword as cosplay weapons.


Tracer

Probably one of the most recognisable characters in the Overwatch series, Tracer is prominently featured in gaming merchandise and official media. Tracer also was the first confirmed queer character in the series and one of the first queer characters in popular video games. As the poster girl of the Overwatch series, Tracer has been a favourite amongst fans and is described as one of the most iconic characters by PC Gamer.

And, this is clear in gaming merchandise surrounding the series. We stock rare collectables of Tracer, in a 6-inch figure; complete with accessories.

Or, if you a fan of Sombra Glitch, also in the Overwatch video games, check out this rare pop vinyl, exclusive from ECCC Spring Convention in 2019.


Jonesy

Initially released as a joke, Fortnite has slowly become the biggest and most popular video game. It certainly has made an impact on pop culture, including various celebrity skins and worlds based on popular films and TV. Even previous characters that we have already mentioned, such as Master Chief, are included in the game node Fortnite Battle Royale. With the descent into The Meta Verse, Fortnite has most likely changed the future of video games.

When it comes to characters, there is a wide range that gamers will interact with, however, our pick is Jonesy (or Agent Jones). He is at the forefront of the entire story and has various gaming merchandise released around him.

So, why not show this with quality gaming clothing? At Next Level, we have various POP & TEE collections; featuring a rare pop vinyl accompanied by a stylish T-shirt. For Fortnite, we have in stock a glow in the dark Ragnarok. Or, also glow in the dark, collect this Battle Hound rare pop vinyl; an E3 Convention exclusive. Either pick up your favourite character or collect them all and have your own battle royale collection.  


Next Level

Here at Next Level, we sell a wide range of pop culture and gaming merchandise that is not found on your local shop's shelf. Just explore our catalogue. We are sure to have something that will attract your interest. Take your shopping to the Next Level.

So check out the rest of our products. We make sure our best selling items are in stock. Why not follow us on Instagram? Our social media team posts regular content and videos for all our latest offers. 
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