While gaming can often seem like a pastime reserved for men only, anyone who knows anything about video games knows that nearly half of gamers are actually women. Moreover, it's not only that girls love playing video games, but there is a good deal of titles with female protagonists that everyone loves. Here are a few that you should consider if you need a new challenge.

The Last of Us

Picture Credit: Naughty Dog/Sony Interactive Entertainment
Picture Credit: Naughty Dog/Sony Interactive Entertainment

You’ve surely heard of The Last of Us and its 2020 sequel The Last of Us Part II. While in the first part, you mostly play as Joel, a smuggler who’s tasked with smuggling Ellie across a post-apocalyptic version of the United States, you also get to control Ellie during the game’s winter segment. The second part sees Ellie become the skillful protagonist that’s looking for revenge. Moreover, there is also the character of Abby, that you can control too. Available exclusively on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, this action-adventure game will surely keep you on your toes.

Mass Effect

The original Mass Effect trilogy by the Canadian developer BioWare provides the player with the chance to choose the gender of their protagonist, as well as customise their first name and appearance. Regardless of whether you opt for a female version of Commander Shepard or not, keep in mind that they are neither a hero nor a villain and that they depend on your actions as the player. Here, you will have the task of defending the galaxy from Reapers, a deadly sentient machine race. The character also makes a cameo in the fourth instalment, Andromeda. As it’s available for various platforms, you will not have a problem finding this game.

Assassin's Creed Odyssey

Picture Credit: Ubisoft
Picture Credit: Ubisoft

While Assassin’s Creed has many titles to choose from, opting for Odyssey is probably the best move if you want a female protagonist, as you can pick from Kassandra and her brother Alexios. Kassandra is a descendant of King Leonidas I but acts as a mercenary for hire. The riveting story will keep you interested throughout the game, which you might be able to pass in 43 hours if you really dedicate yourself. Developed by Ubisoft Quebec and published by Ubisoft, you can play on consoles and PC.

Tomb Raider

Of course, Lara Croft cannot be overlooked when talking about female protagonists. Although she first appeared in the 1996 video game Tomb Raider, created by the British developer Core Design and published by Eidos Interactive, also from the UK, this adventurer and archeologist has been depicted in several dozen titles and spin-off games. 

What is more, you can also find her in the slots games, such as Tomb Raider Online Slots and Tomb Raider Secret of the Sword, which puts her on a quest to find treasure. If you like this type of casino games, you might like that the Tomb Raider sequels have 30-paylines and very modern graphics. These games are widely available and you can find them in places like SuperSeven, an online casino in Canada, where you can also grant yourself various bonuses.

Resident Evil 3

If you’ve played any of the earlier Resident Evil instalments, there is no reason to skip the third one. This 2020 remake of the Resident Evil 3: Nemesis, follows Jill Valentine, a former elite agent, who has appeared in a number of earlier games. You will try to escape a city during a viral outbreak while also looking for a vaccine. The tense atmosphere during which you have to solve puzzles and defeat monsters was well received by critics. You can play it on Windows, PS4, and Xbox One.

Horizon Zero Dawn

Picture Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Picture Credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment

Horizon: Zero Dawn shows a post-apocalyptic world dominated by colossal machines and you have to play as Aloy, an outcast from her tribe, as she uses her speed and agility to save herself and protect her tribe from the threats that the machines pose. Aloy can take on even the biggest opponents thanks to her archery, hunting, and crafting skills. This Dutch-developed game came out in 2017 for PlayStation 4 and in 2020 for Microsoft Windows, and received praise from critics.

Life is Strange: True Colours

The third main installment of the Life Is Strange series came out in September 2021 and tells the story of Alex Chen, who can experience the emotions of other people. She’s also looking to solve her brother’s mysterious death. Available on various platforms, you will surely enjoy this game that was welcomed with positive reviews.

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart

Picture Credit: Insomniac Games
Picture Credit: Insomniac Games

If you’re a fan of the Ratchet & Clank series, you’re certainly glad that 2021 brought Rift Apart. Available only on PlayStation 5 so far, this installment brings back the beloved duo from the title, but it also introduces a playable female character named Rivet. She stands out with her courage and compassion, and you will surely like her at first sight.

When looking for video games with female protagonists, you are spoiled for choice. Try any of these titles, and you will not be disappointed.