Mario – Mario series
There’s not a lot that comes out of the moustachioed mouth of Mario, aside from the occasional confirmation that it is indeed “a me Mario.” Is there a reason for this aside from the sound quality on early gaming hardware? Probably not, but it’s for the best. I can’t imagine he’d have much to say that wouldn’t seem racially offensive or stereotypical outside of a few forced exhalations when he jumps.
Link – Zelda series
Link: What would happen if Mr. Spock and a forest mated
When silent protagonists ever get mentioned, Link is probably at the front of everyone’s mind. He defines the quiet underdog hero and, if videogames can be considered a form of power fantasy, Link is the blank slate upon which the player can feel empowered. Regardless of which Link it may be, all players can feel immersed in the world of Hyrule (or Termina or Holodrum etc.) via his avatar.
