Summary
Rogues have been a part of gaming, especially RPGs, for quite some time now. They’re stealthy, agile, and tend to have a broad skill set, like the charisma to smooth talk their way out of a tricky situation, the dexterity to pick a lock, or the ability to assassinate others.
Of course, what some games or people consider to be a rogue can have some variation, but ultimately, it’s probably safe to say we all have the core concept in our heads. With that being said, let’s put a spotlight on the best rogues we’ve played as or met in gaming.
7Corvo Attano
Dishonored Series
While Corvo’s original occupation was Royal Protector, he gets framed as an assassin by usurpers that took the throne. Because of this, Corvo has to go rogue, no pun intended, and use his skills and powers to fight against people he once considered allies.
With supernatural abilities granted by The Outsider, Corvo quickly became one of the most lethal, stealthy, and slippery rogues in gaming history. Still, his abilities only go as far as the player’s, but it’s safe to say he could wipe out an entire garrison in 10 minutes or less.
6The Gray Fox
The Elder Scrolls Series
The coolest part about The Gray Fox isn’t necessarily about who, specifically, is under the mask at any given time, but more so about the legacy and traditions surrounding the mask itself; only the best of the best, guildmasters, can wear the Gray Cowl of Nocturnal.
The few successors that have the honor of becoming The Gray Fox carry on a thieving legacy that has continued for hundreds of years. Honor aside, though, it makes sense that only the most skilled individuals should have access to a mask that magically hides their identity and launders crime-related fines.
5Astarion
Baldur’s Gate 3
This beloved vampire really caused a stir in the CRPG community, mostly because many find him rather attractive, but that’s arguably a part of what makes Astarion such a good rogue; few expect such a charismatic, well-spoken character to put a blade to your neck in mere seconds.
On the more meta side of things,the Baldur’s Gate universe gives rogues the potential to be incredibly powerful, and Astarion is no exception. Critical hits, sneak attacks, pickpocketing, lock picking, smooth talking; whatever you need, this guy can get it done, as long as you give him some of your blood occasionally.
4Karst
Path Of Exile
Karst is a remarkably stylish NPC from Rogue’s Harbor, donning a little bit more armor and layers of clothing than a typical rogue; it’s probably worth it though, as he does look remarkably stylish. As for skills, he’s incredibly good at lockpicking and has immense perception and agility.
As you complete heists with him, you’ll get a feel for his personality, which at times comes across as surprisingly supportive, affectionately calling you “rook” and making sure you’re handling things okay. Well, it’s also possible he just wants the job to be a success; can you blame him?
3Nok-Nok
Pathfinder: Kingmaker
If you’re not familiar with Nok-Nok, he’s a terrifying, chaotic-evil goblin with a shocking amount of dexterity, damage potential, and knowledge of deadly traps. To top it all off, Nok-Nok isn’t just an average rogue; he’s a Knife Master, making sneak attacks with small blades deal even more damage.
you’re able to’t always be the biggest fish in the pond, and sometimes, that means getting dispatched by something half or even a third of your height in a few turns or less.Alternatively, you could always try to get on his good side; he’s a big fan of baked spider legs.
2Sebille Kaleran
Divinity: Original Sin 2
If Sebille and the game itself offered subclasses, she’d undoubtedly be an assassin when it comes to rogue specializations. Since she was formerly a slave with a scar to prove it, her life purpose is to hunt down the Master who controlled her and get revenge once and for all.
There’s the typical prowess you’d expect from someone who kills for a living, like mobility, lethality, investigative skills, and creeping around unnoticed, but the coolest part about Sebille is that she’s the chosen champion of a god, Tir-Cendelius, the creator of the Elven race.
1Patches the Untethered
Elden Ring
He might not be the most lethal or fearsome rogue out there, but Patches still deserves some love; if anything, he displays the true spirit of any respectable rogue. He sets traps and lies in wait, will put up a good fight, and surrenders or tricks others into not slaying him if he needs to.
It’s one thing to be an incredibly powerful rogue by default, but something is endearing about Patches choosing to don a full set of leather armor,wield an upgraded spear, and commit to this lifestyle. Patches forged this life for himself, and he’s living it to the fullest.
