The PS1 generation was experimental, as the console was one of the first video game systems to support 3D graphics technology. For this reason,developers took the opportunity to release a variety of games, many of which are still part of popular franchises today. And many of those games spawned beloved characters.
Names like Cloud Strife fromFinal Fantasy 7, Leon S. Kennedy fromResident Evil, or even Alucard, the protagonist ofCastlevania: Symphony of the Night, are still remembered among players. However,many other incredible heroes from classic PS1 games have been forgotten over time, either because the franchise was abandoned by developers or because more popular characters overshadowed them. Here are a few who deserve a spotlight.
Aya Brea, the protagonist ofParasite Eve, is a New York detective who faces a mysterious biological enemy during the Christmas festivities. Released for the PlayStation 1, thegame combined RPG and horror elements, creating a unique and innovative experience for players. Aya, with her enigmatic past and unique abilities, became an icon of the genre.
Despite being a forgotten heroine, Aya Brea brought emotional depth and an engaging narrative that setParasite Eveapart from other games of the time. The dark atmosphere and the blend of science and biological horror made the game a PlayStation 1 classic. Today, it is fondly remembered by fans, even though it did not maintain the same popularity over the years. Unfortunately, Square Enix has shown no interest at all in revivingParasite Eve. She might not be forgotten by people who grew up with the games, but Aya does not seem to be in the minds of the franchise’s publisher.
Justin is the protagonist ofGrandia, a classic JRPG released for the PlayStation 1 that follows the journey of a young adventurer in search of ancient legends and treasures. With a fearless spirit, a pure heart, and a strong sense of curiosity, Justin embarks on an epic journey around the world, meeting allies and facing dangers.
AlthoughGrandiawas a classic game appreciated for its captivating narrative and innovative combat system, Justin did not achieve the same fame as other RPG protagonists of the time, becoming a forgotten hero. The richness of the story and the development of the characters madeGrandiaan important milestone in the PlayStation 1’s game library, fondly remembered by dedicated fans.
Ashley Riot was the protagonist ofVagrant Story, agame produced by the same team that madeFinal Fantasy Tactics. However, unlike Ramza Beoulve, who is still remembered by fans of the franchise, Ashley has more modest popularity. In the game’s story, the character was an elite agent who needed to investigate a political conspiracy in the dark catacombs of Leá Monde.
The character, remembered for his excellent fighting skills, was interesting. However, even thoughVagrant Storyis constantly cited as a hidden gem of the PlayStation 1, it has not received new games or remakes for modern consoles. This has caused Ashley Riot, despite his depth, to become a forgotten character among players.
Legend of Legaiahad one of the most fun combat systems on the PlayStation 1, mixing traditionalturn-based combat with combos reminiscent of fighting games. However, the story was filled with clichés, where a group of heroes needed to save the world and wielded magical items.
Although the game had a certain charm for its time, it did not survive the test of time. Thus, Vahn, the blue-haired boy who starred in the first game of the franchise, remained in the memory of players as a symbol of an innovative RPG for its era. However, the game is remembered more for its nostalgia than for its lasting impact on the gaming industry.
Xenogearsis aJRPG that stands out for its deep and complex narrative. The protagonist, Fei Fong Wong, is a young artist who is drawn into an epic struggle involving giant mechas, religion, and philosophical issues. Additionally, Fei discovers his dark past and faces existential dilemmas, making his journey memorable.
Despite its quality and depth,Xenogearsdid not achieve the same popularity as other titles of the time, leaving Fei Fong Wong as a forgotten hero among other great games that players could play. The lack of continuous recognition and the absence of direct sequels contributed toXenogearsbecoming a hidden gem, appreciated only by a dedicated fan base.
Regina is the protagonist ofDino Crisis, a survival horror game developed by Capcom. In the game, Regina is a special operations agent sent to investigate a research facility where dinosaurs have been brought back to life. Her intelligence, courage, and combat skills make her a memorable figure in the gaming world.
As a forgotten heroine, Regina represents an era of innovation in the horror genre.Dino Crisis, often compared toResident Evil, brought a new kind of fear with its relentless dinosaurs and tense environment. Although Regina and her game did not achieve the same lasting fame, they remain an important milestone and a classic game of the PlayStation 1 era.
Tanner, the protagonist ofDriver, is a former police officer who goes undercover to take down criminal organizations. Thisgame was a pioneer in offering an open-world experiencewith intense car chases and an engaging narrative. Tanner, with his driving skills, became an unforgettable hero for the game’s fans.
In addition to bringing a new dynamic to the genre,Driverbecame a great classic of past generations, thanks to the innovations it brought to the gameplay and the challenges of the missions. Although the franchise does not maintain the same popularity in modern times, John Tanner is still fondly remembered by many fans.
Alone in The Darkwas one of the most important franchises for the horror genre in video games, bringing various concepts that were later used by other games. The first game of the franchise, which starred Edward Carnby and had a remake calledAlone in the Dark: The New Nightmarefor PlayStation 1, showcased this quality.
TheAlone in the Darkfranchise, despite its initial impact, could not keep up with the quality of other horror series that emerged later. Not even the remake released in 2024 helped revive interest in the game, leaving Edward Carnby even more forgotten. Thus, although the protagonist was interesting, he lost relevance over time, becoming just a memory for hardcore fans.
