This week for the These Dads Are Doing It Right series I want to put a spotlight on great dads in video games. These dads go above and beyond to lead by example. Some have unusual tactics when it comes to parenting, but they care about their kids. In addition, if there are any other dads that you think we should check out, leave their name and info in the comment section below.
Great Dads In Video Games
Joel Miller – The Last of Us
Joel Miller’s fatherhood is a central theme in The Last of Us. He was a devoted single father to his biological daughter, Sarah. The story begins seeing Joel as a loving, struggling single father to Sarah. Her tragic death during the initial outbreak is the foundational trauma that shapes his character for the next two decades. Therefore he battles with being emotionally distant and ruthless survivor. He creates a protective and unconditional bond with the orphaned Ellie, effectively becoming a surrogate father.
Barret Wallace – Final Fantasy VII
Barret Wallace’s fatherhood is a central theme in the Final Fantasy VII video game series, specifically focusing on his deep and loving relationship with his adopted daughter, Marlene. Despite his gruff exterior, he is a fiercely protective and devoted father figure, whose ultimate motivation is to save the planet so that future generations, including Marlene, can have a safe world to inherit.
Kratos – God Of War
The God of War video game series, particularly the 2018 reboot and its sequel God of War Ragnarök, centers on Kratos’s journey as a father to his son, Atreus. The story explores how Kratos, a former god of war, learns to be a better father by balancing his brutal past with his need to protect and guide Atreus. Their relationship is the core of the narrative, showing how Kratos teaches Atreus about survival while Atreus teaches his father about compassion and vulnerability.
Geralt Of Rivia – The Witcher
In the video games, specifically The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, the theme of fatherhood is central to the narrative, focusing on Geralt of Rivia’s role as the surrogate father to his adoptive daughter, Ciri. Geralt is biologically sterile due to the mutations he underwent to become a witcher, so his fatherhood is based entirely on a deep emotional bond and commitment.