Summary
- Elite forces in video games allow players to step into the boots of the best and most skilled warriors.
- The iconic elite forces mentioned, such as the Space Marines, Grey Wardens, and Tenno, are revered by fans for their heroic feats and unique abilities.
- These elite forces symbolize heroism, sacrifice, and the willingness to face incredible odds, resonating with players and leaving a lasting impression in the gaming community.
Who doesn't want to be part of the best and the most elite badasses in the military? That is why, in video games, it's tons of fun stepping into the boots of elite forces, the cream of the crop in military prowess and skill. These special operations units, known for their exceptional training, cutting-edge weaponry, and ability to tackle the most challenging missions, have become iconic in gaming.
From battling against global threats to executing covert operations behind enemy lines, elite forces in video games offer players an immersive and adrenaline-pumping experience. Dive into some of the best elite forces featured in video games and celebrate their place in the heart of the gaming community.
10 Space Marines | Warhammer 40k
The Space Marines or Adeptus Astartes are a superhuman, genetically engineered warrior brotherhood of the Warhammer 40K universe. Created by the Emperor of Mankind, these warriors are an essential symbol of the franchise, known for their brutal efficiency in battle and dedication to defending the Imperium of Man from the vast threats looming in the far future's grim darkness.
As elite soldiers of the Imperium, they are revered by fans for their heroic feats and the epic battles they engage in. Their towering power armor, powerful bolters, and their eternal fight against the enemies of the Imperium solidify their place as one of the most iconic elite forces in video games. Notable members of the Adeptus Astartes Include Gabriel Angelos of the Blood Ravens and Marneus Calgar of the Ultramarines.
9 Grey Wardens | Dragon Age
The Grey Wardens are a renowned order in the Dragon Age franchise, known for their role in defending Thedas from the Blight. As the first line of defense against the darkspawn, they undertake the dangerous and deadly task of battling the Archdemon to prevent the Blight from consuming the world.
Their status is further solidified by their unique abilities and the ritual of drinking darkspawn blood, which grants them special powers but also binds them to the fate of the Blight. The Grey Wardens symbolize heroism and selflessness, representing the willingness to face incredible odds for the greater good. Their struggle and determination in the face of darkness and despair resonate with players, leaving a lasting impression and making the Grey Wardens one of video game history's most memorable fantasy orders.
8 The Tenno | Warframe
The Tenno are a race of ancient warriors in Warframe. What makes the Tenno truly iconic is their mastery of their Warframes, advanced exo-armor suits that grant them extraordinary powers. Additionally, the Tenno's agility, acrobatics, and proficiency in various combat and weaponry make them formidable Elite warriors.
The Tenno have captured the imagination of players through their enigmatic and mysterious nature. This intrigue, the game's constantly evolving content, and world-building have created a dedicated and passionate fanbase. Their eye-catching design, blending ancient and futuristic elements, further contributes to their popularity, firmly establishing their place in the hearts of Warframe players and the wider gaming community.
7 Specters | Mass Effect
The Specters are elite agents who operate on behalf of the Citadel Council, the governing body of the galaxy in the Mass Effect universe. They are given special authority and operate outside the law to protect the galaxy from internal and external threats. Among them are empathetic peacekeepers, adept at resolving conflicts through diplomacy, and some are cold-blooded assassins, efficiently eliminating problematic individuals without hesitation.
The Specters are memorable because they represent the epitome of skill, power, and influence in the Mass Effect universe. As the highest-ranking operatives, they have access to advanced technology, powerful weapons, and the freedom to make decisions. Notable Specters include Commander Shepard and Saren Arterius.
6 Ghosts | StarCraft
The Ghosts from StarCraft are elite Terran psionic operatives with enhanced mental abilities and combat skills. In advanced stealth suits, they can turn invisible, infiltrate enemy lines, and conduct covert operations. These highly trained individuals possess unique psychic powers, such as reading minds, manipulating thoughts, and delivering devastating telekinetic attacks.
What makes the Ghosts truly special is their role as versatile and deadly agents, capable of turning the tide of battle with their tactical prowess and stealthy approach. They are essential to the Terran military and have become synonymous with espionage and precision strikes in the StarCraft universe. The Ghosts' mysterious and enigmatic nature and potent abilities solidified their place as iconic characters in the game. Notable Ghosts include Sarah Kerrigan and November Annabella Terra, a.k.a “Nova.”
5 Spartans | Halo
In the Halo universe, the Spartans are a group of elite supersoldiers created by the United Nations Space Command (UNSC). They are genetically enhanced and cybernetically augmented warriors trained young to become the ultimate soldier. Spartans stand out with their incredible combat prowess and advanced Mjolnir power armor.
Throughout the Halo series, the Spartans have faced countless challenges and enemies, showcasing their bravery and resilience in the fight against the Covenant, the Flood, and other threats. Their portrayal as the last line of defense against overwhelming odds has earned them a place as some of the most recognizable and revered characters in video games. Notable members of the Spartan-IIs include John 117, a.k.a ”Master Chief,” and Linda-058, a.k.a “Sierra 058”.
4 SOLDIER | Final Fantasy 7
In Final Fantasy 7, SOLDIER stands as the elite fighting force of the Shinra Electric Power Company, a powerful corporation that controls the game's world. Outshining all other military forces, SOLDIER members are reserved for the most critical and specialized missions that demand extraordinary power.
With their advanced combat abilities and weaponry, SOLDIER has earned a reputation for being the best. Their distinctive uniforms and remarkable skills make them instantly recognizable and feared on the battlefield. Notable members of SOLDIER include Sephiroth and Angeal Hewley.
3 The Black Hand | Command and Conquer Tiberium Wars
The Black Hand is a notorious faction known for its ruthless tactics and fanatical devotion to Kane, the enigmatic leader of the Brotherhood of Nod. Their unwavering loyalty to Kane makes them formidable adversaries, while their distinct visual appearance, clad in dark, hooded robes with obscured faces, strikes fear into enemies on the battlefield. The Black Hand stands apart from other factions with its unique units and technologies, including signature flamethrowers and advanced stealth technology.
Throughout Command & Conquer: Tiberium Wars, The Black Hand embodies fanaticism, unwavering loyalty, and the dark side of human nature. Their role as devoted followers of Kane and their distinctive appearance and gameplay mechanics have solidified their status in video games.
2 Foxhound | Metal Gear
In the Metal Gear series, FOXHOUND is an elite special forces unit known for its skilled and diverse group of soldiers, each possessing unique abilities and traits. Led by legendary soldier Big Boss, it plays a pivotal role in the ongoing conflict between various factions and organizations. What makes FOXHOUND special is its reputation as a formidable and deadly force. They are known for carrying out covert operations with precision and efficiency.
The unit's iconic logo, a fox's head with a knife in its mouth, has become a recognizable symbol in the gaming community. FOXHOUND's involvement in various vital events throughout the series and its pivotal role in the conflicts and conspiracies surrounding the game's narrative has cemented its place as a key part of the universe. The unit's legacy and impact on the series have made it an enduring and beloved aspect of Metal Gear. Notable members of FOXHOUND include Liquid Snake and Revolver Ocelot.
1 Task Force 141 | Call of Duty Modern Warfare Series
In the Call of Duty series, Task Force 141 is an iconic special operation unit known for its elite and diverse roster of soldiers from various international military forces. The unit plays a central role in numerous Call of Duty games, particularly in the Modern Warfare series, led by Captain John Price.
The unit's missions often involve high-stakes and covert operations that require stealth, precision, and teamwork. Task Force 141's involvement in critical events has made it a memorable and integral part of the Modern Warfare series. Notable members of Task Force 141 include Captain John "Soap" MacTavish and Lieutenant Simon "Ghost" Riley.