Several Characters from Games and TV We Knew Before They Blew Up

It’s always a unique feeling to witness something explode in popularity, especially when you were an early adopter. The satisfaction of recognizing potential, the shared experience with a smaller community before the masses arrive – it’s a distinctive badge of honor. While we’re not claiming prophetic abilities, we did have a fondness for certain characters in games and TV long before their mainstream breakout. Let’s delve into some of those figures and the reasons why they captivated us from the start.

Geralt of Rivia: The Witcher Before the Netflix Frenzy

Discovering Andrzej Sapkowski’s World

Before Henry Cavill donned the silver wig and captivated millions, Geralt of Rivia was a cult favorite amongst fantasy book readers and gamers. Andrzej Sapkowski’s Witcher novels, translated into English, offered a gritty, morally ambiguous world far removed from the typical high fantasy tropes. Geralt, the monster hunter for hire, was a complex protagonist burdened by a sense of duty and haunted by a past filled with difficult choices. His dry wit, stoicism, and underlying vulnerability resonated deeply, making him far more compelling than the average sword-swinging hero.

The CD Projekt Red Revolution: The Witcher Game Series

CD Projekt Red’s initial Witcher game, released in 2007, was a flawed but ambitious attempt to translate Sapkowski’s world into an interactive medium. While the combat mechanics were initially clunky, the game’s compelling narrative, mature themes, and faithful adaptation of the source material garnered a dedicated following. Each subsequent installment, culminating in the critically acclaimed The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, further cemented Geralt’s status as a gaming icon. The rich, sprawling world, the complex characters, and the difficult choices presented to the player all contributed to the game’s enduring appeal. Before the Netflix series brought Geralt to the mainstream, he was already a beloved figure within the gaming community, a symbol of mature storytelling and challenging gameplay. We saw the potential in CD Projekt Red’s vision and the depth of Sapkowski’s character long before the world went wild for bathtub scenes.

Harley Quinn: From Sidekick to Icon

Beyond the Joker’s Shadow: A Troubled Past

Harley Quinn’s origins as the Joker’s infatuated sidekick in Batman: The Animated Series are well-known. However, even in those early appearances, there was a spark of something more. Her vulnerability, her tragic backstory, and her surprising moments of competence hinted at a character with far more potential than just being the Joker’s punchline. Voiced brilliantly by Arleen Sorkin, Harley’s unique accent and manic energy made her instantly memorable, even amidst the rogues’ gallery of Gotham’s most notorious villains.

DC Comics Evolution: Finding Independence

As Harley Quinn transitioned into the world of DC Comics, writers began to explore her character with greater depth. She broke free from the Joker’s influence, forging her own identity as an anti-heroine with a complicated moral compass. Comic book series like Harley Quinn offered a glimpse into her fractured psyche, her struggles with mental illness, and her attempts to find her place in the world. She became a symbol of resilience, a survivor of abuse who refused to be defined by her past. Before the Suicide Squad movie and Margot Robbie’s portrayal turned her into a global phenomenon, Harley Quinn was already a beloved character within the comic book community, a testament to the power of strong female characters and complex storytelling. We were drawn to her vulnerability and her potential for redemption long before she became a Halloween costume staple.

Rick Sanchez: More Than Just Burps and Catchphrases

Channel 101 Roots: The Real Animated Adventures of Doc and Mharti

The origins of Rick Sanchez lie in Justin Roiland’s short film The Real Animated Adventures of Doc and Mharti, a crude but undeniably funny parody of Back to the Future. The raw, improvisational humor and the dysfunctional relationship between the two characters hinted at the comedic potential that would later be fully realized in Rick and Morty. While the short was far from polished, it showcased Roiland’s unique comedic voice and his willingness to push boundaries.

Adult Swim Domination: Nihilism and Family Dynamics

When Rick and Morty premiered on Adult Swim, it quickly became a cult phenomenon. Rick Sanchez, the brilliant but alcoholic and nihilistic scientist, resonated with viewers who were tired of predictable sitcom tropes. His cynicism, his disregard for authority, and his willingness to expose the absurdity of existence struck a chord, particularly with younger audiences. However, beneath the surface of the burps and the catchphrases, there was a surprising amount of depth to Rick’s character. His complicated relationship with his family, his fear of vulnerability, and his underlying loneliness made him a surprisingly relatable figure. Before Rick and Morty merchandise flooded the market and the show became a cultural touchstone, we recognized the brilliance of Roiland’s creation and the surprisingly poignant themes explored beneath the surface of the show’s often-crude humor. We were laughing and contemplating the meaning of life long before the Szechuan sauce craze.

Baby Yoda (Grogu): The Force Was Strong Early On

The Mandalorian Launch: A Surprise Package

The arrival of Baby Yoda, or Grogu as he is now known, in the first episode of The Mandalorian was a masterstroke of secrecy and marketing. The adorable, Force-sensitive foundling instantly captured the hearts of viewers, sparking a wave of memes and fan art. While the Star Wars universe is filled with memorable characters, Grogu’s innocence, his vulnerability, and his undeniable cuteness made him a unique and instantly beloved figure.

Beyond the Cuteness: A Deeper Connection to the Force

While Grogu’s adorable appearance was undoubtedly a major factor in his popularity, there was more to his appeal than just pure cuteness. His connection to the Force, his mysterious past, and his reliance on Din Djarin for protection created a compelling dynamic. As the series progressed, we learned more about Grogu’s abilities and his importance to the larger Star Wars narrative. Before Baby Yoda became a household name and Disney’s merchandising machine went into overdrive, we were captivated by his innocent charm and the potential he held within the Star Wars universe. We felt the Force pulling us in long before the plush toys hit the shelves.

The Demogorgon: Stranger Things Before the Hype Train

Indie Horror Vibe: A Monster From the Upside Down

When Stranger Things premiered on Netflix, it felt like a breath of fresh air. The show’s 80s nostalgia, its Spielbergian sensibilities, and its focus on a group of lovable kids made it an instant hit. However, one of the most memorable aspects of the first season was the Demogorgon, the terrifying creature from the Upside Down. With its petal-like face and its relentless pursuit of its prey, the Demogorgon was a truly menacing monster, reminiscent of classic horror movie villains.

Practical Effects: A Return to Classic Horror

What made the Demogorgon particularly effective was the use of practical effects. In an era dominated by CGI, the Demogorgon’s tangible presence added a layer of authenticity and terror. The creature felt real, and its movements were unsettlingly organic. Before Stranger Things became a cultural phenomenon and the Demogorgon became a popular Halloween costume, we were terrified by its presence and impressed by the show’s commitment to practical effects. We were hiding behind the couch long before the Duffer brothers became household names.

Among Us: The Imposter Among Us

Indie Game Gem: A Simple Premise, Endless Fun

Among Us’s explosion in popularity during the pandemic was meteoric, but the game was actually released in 2018. Its simple premise – a social deduction game where players must identify the impostor amongst them – was incredibly addictive. The game’s accessibility, its reliance on communication and deception, and its ability to create hilarious and tense moments made it a perfect pastime during lockdowns.

Twitch and YouTube Impact: The Power of Streaming

The game’s rise to prominence was largely fueled by Twitch and YouTube streamers, who showcased the game’s chaotic and entertaining gameplay to a wider audience. As more and more people began playing Among Us, the game’s popularity snowballed, leading to a surge in downloads and a vibrant online community. Before Among Us became a global phenomenon and spawned countless memes, we were enjoying its simple yet addictive gameplay and its ability to bring people together (virtually, of course). We were accusing our friends of being sus long before the game became a trending topic.

Cuphead: The Run and Gun That Ran Away with Hearts

Inspired by the 1930s: A Unique Visual Style

Cuphead immediately grabbed attention with its stunning visual style, meticulously crafted to emulate the look and feel of 1930s cartoons. The hand-drawn animation, the jazzy soundtrack, and the challenging gameplay combined to create a truly unique and unforgettable experience. While the game’s difficulty was notoriously high, its charm and its artistic merit made it a critical and commercial success.

Indie Darling: A Testament to Artistic Vision

Cuphead was a testament to the power of artistic vision and the importance of originality. The game’s creators, Studio MDHR, poured their heart and soul into the project, and their passion was evident in every frame. Before Cuphead became a household name and spawned a Netflix series, we were marveling at its stunning visuals and its challenging gameplay. We were dying repeatedly but loving every minute of it long before the mainstream caught on.

Apex Legends: The Battle Royale That Dared to Be Different

Respawn’s Surprise Hit: A New Take on the Genre

While the battle royale genre was already crowded with popular titles like Fortnite and PUBG, Apex Legends managed to carve out its own niche with its unique gameplay mechanics and its focus on team-based combat. The game’s hero-based system, its innovative communication tools, and its fast-paced action made it an instant hit with players.

Fluid Movement and Strategic Gameplay: Setting Itself Apart

What set Apex Legends apart from its competitors was its emphasis on fluid movement and strategic gameplay. The game’s map design, its varied weaponry, and its unique hero abilities encouraged players to work together and to think tactically. Before Apex Legends became a major player in the battle royale scene and attracted millions of players, we were enjoying its fast-paced action and its innovative gameplay mechanics. We were mastering the art of sliding and zip-lining long before the game became a competitive esports title.

Steven Universe: More Than Just a Kids’ Show

Cartoon Network Gem: A Show About Acceptance

Steven Universe, on the surface, appeared to be a simple kids’ cartoon. However, beneath the colorful animation and the catchy songs lay a surprisingly complex and emotionally resonant story about acceptance, identity, and the power of love. The show’s diverse cast of characters, its progressive themes, and its willingness to tackle difficult topics made it a favorite among viewers of all ages.

Complex Characters and Emotional Depth: A Show for All Ages

What set Steven Universe apart from other animated shows was its willingness to explore complex characters and to delve into emotional depth. The show’s themes of trauma, forgiveness, and self-acceptance resonated deeply with viewers, particularly those who had felt marginalized or misunderstood. Before Steven Universe became a cultural phenomenon and spawned a movie and a limited series, we were moved by its heartwarming story and its positive message. We were singing along to the songs and crying along with the characters long before the show became a critical darling.

These are just a few examples of characters and shows we were following long before their mainstream explosion. It’s a testament to the power of discovering something special early on and the satisfaction of watching it resonate with a wider audience. We look forward to uncovering the next hidden gems before they become ubiquitous.