Combat is at the forefront of video games. From swords that wield ancient magic to futuristic guns that defy the laws of physics, the world of interactive entertainment has given us some of the most iconic and unforgettable weapons in pop culture.
BFG9000
Series: DOOM
Wielder: Doomguy
The BFG9000, short for “Big Freaking Gun 9000,” is one of the most iconic weapons in the DOOM franchise and a symbol of overwhelming firepower in first-person shooters. Introduced in DOOM (1993), this energy weapon is renowned for its ability to unleash devastating blasts that can obliterate multiple enemies in a single shot.
Characterized by its futuristic design, the BFG9000 fires a massive green projectile that travels through the air, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. In gameplay, it excels at crowd control, making it a favorite among players who face hordes of demons. The weapon’s dramatic impact and signature sound effects contribute to its legendary status in gaming culture. The BFG9000 not only represents the pinnacle of destructive capability in the DOOM series but also embodies the chaotic, adrenaline-fueled gameplay that the franchise is known for.
Blades of Chaos
Series: God of War
Wielder: Kratos
The Blades of Chaos are the signature weapons of Kratos, the protagonist of the God of War series. Forged in the depths of the Underworld, these chained blades are a symbol of Kratos’s tragic past and his relentless pursuit of vengeance. Each blade is attached to a long chain, allowing for versatile melee attacks and devastating combos that can sweep through multiple enemies at once. The Blades of Chaos are imbued with fire, enabling Kratos to unleash powerful attacks that scorch foes and manipulate the battlefield.
Their design is iconic, featuring ornate details that reflect their brutal history. As Kratos wields these weapons, they serve not only as tools of destruction but also as a reminder of his struggles and the haunting memories of his past, making them a central element in the narrative and gameplay of the franchise.
Buster Sword
Series: Final Fantasy VII
Wielder: Cloud Strife
The Buster Sword is the iconic weapon from Final Fantasy VII, primarily wielded by the game’s protagonist, Cloud Strife. Known for its massive size and distinctive broad blade, the Buster Sword is a symbol of Cloud’s strength and his complicated past.
Originally crafted from the remnants of the First Class SOLDIER Angeal Hewley’s sword, it carries deep emotional significance as it reflects themes of legacy and identity. With its rugged design and striking appearance, the Buster Sword has become one of the most recognizable weapons in gaming history, representing the enduring struggle against adversity in Cloud’s journey.
Chainsaw Gun (Lancer)
Series: Gears of War
Wielder: Marcus Fenix
The Chainsaw Gun, known as the Lancer, is one of the most iconic weapons in the Gears of War series, celebrated for its brutal design and functionality. This hybrid weapon combines a high-powered assault rifle with a chainsaw mounted on the underside, allowing players to engage in both ranged combat and gruesome close-quarters executions. The Lancer’s signature chainsaw feature enables players to rev the chainsaw and slice through enemies, creating a visceral and satisfying combat experience that exemplifies the game’s gritty, intense atmosphere.
First introduced in the original Gears of War, the Lancer has become a symbol of the franchise, representing the struggle of humanity against the monstrous Locust Horde and highlighting the series’ emphasis on teamwork, strategy, and raw, explosive action. Its distinctive design and mechanics have solidified its place in gaming history as a memorable and influential weapon.
Ebony and Ivory
Series: Devil May Cry
Wielder: Dante
Ebony and Ivory are the iconic twin handguns wielded by the demon hunter Dante in the Devil May Cry series. These stylish firearms not only reflect Dante’s character—a mix of cool, cocky, and fiercely skilled—but also serve as a testament to the game’s blend of action and flair. Crafted by the legendary gunsmith, they feature a sleek black (Ebony) and white (Ivory) design, symbolizing the duality of Dante’s nature.
In gameplay, Ebony and Ivory allow players to perform rapid-fire shots, offering a balance of power and precision. They are often used in combination with Dante’s acrobatic melee combat style, making for visually stunning combat sequences. The guns are integral to Dante’s persona and the series’ overall aesthetic, representing the high-octane, stylish action that Devil May Cry is renowned for. Their popularity has made them not just weapons, but cultural icons in the gaming world, celebrated by fans for their unique design and gameplay mechanics.
Energy Sword
Series: Halo
Wielder: Covenant
The Energy Sword is a signature melee weapon featured in the Halo series, known for its sleek, futuristic design and deadly effectiveness in combat. Favored by the Covenant, particularly by the Elites, this weapon emits a pair of energizing blades that can slice through enemies with deadly precision.
This weapon is notable for its unique ability to recharge after each use, allowing for rapid, lethal attacks during close-quarters encounters. Its iconic status is further cemented by its association with the franchise’s intense multiplayer modes, where it has become a symbol of both skill and glory, embodying the fast-paced, strategic gameplay that Halo is renowned for.
Fat Man
Series: Fallout
Wielder: (protagonist)
The Fat Man is a unique and iconic weapon from the Fallout series, known for its devastating firepower and distinctive design. Resembling a miniaturized nuclear catapult, this portable artillery piece fires miniature nuclear bombs, referred to as “Fat Man bombs.” When fired, the weapon produces a dramatic explosion, capable of obliterating enemies and large areas, making it one of the most powerful weapons in the Fallout universe.
First introduced in Fallout 3, the Fat Man embodies the post-apocalyptic theme of the series, combining retro-futuristic aesthetics with the grim realities of nuclear warfare. Its use is often reserved for desperate situations due to the destructive consequences of deploying such a weapon, reflecting the moral dilemmas players face in a world ravaged by nuclear fallout. The Fat Man has become a symbol of the series, representing both the ingenuity and horrors of humanity’s reliance on nuclear technology.
Fireball
Series: Super Mario
Wielder: Mario
The Fireball is a signature power-up in the Super Mario series, transforming Mario into Fire Mario when he obtains a Fire Flower. This iconic ability allows Mario to shoot powerful fireballs that can defeat enemies, break certain blocks, and light torches. Visually striking with its vibrant colors, the Fireball is not only a symbol of Mario’s enhanced capabilities but also a representation of the series’ whimsical and imaginative gameplay.
Launching fireballs adds a strategic layer to encounters, encouraging players to engage creatively with the environment and enemies. Its enduring presence throughout the franchise has made the Fireball a beloved and recognizable element, highlighting Mario’s evolution as a character while remaining a staple of his adventures.
Frostmourne
Series: Warcraft
Wielder: Prince Arthas Menethil, the Lich King
Frostmourne is one of the most powerful weapons in the Warcraft universe, particularly recognized as the runeblade wielded by the Lich King, Arthas Menethil. Forged by the mysterious and sinister forces of the Shadowlands, Frostmourne possesses the ability to steal the souls of those it slays, empowering its wielder while leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.
The blade is intricately designed, featuring a chilling, icy aesthetic that reflects its dark origins and powers. Its influence over Arthas is profound, corrupting his soul and leading him down a path of betrayal and madness as he seeks vengeance against his enemies.
Frostmourne’s significance extends beyond its physical presence; it symbolizes the tragic fall of a once-noble prince into the depths of tyranny and despair. As a central element in Warcraft III and World of Warcraft, Frostmourne remains a lasting emblem of the series’ rich lore and the eternal battle between good and evil.
Golden Gun
Series: GoldenEye 007
Wielder: James Bond
The Golden Gun is one of the most legendary weapons in the GoldenEye 007 video game, known for its distinctive appearance and formidable power. Featured prominently in the game’s multiplayer mode, this iconic firearm is a one-shot kill weapon, making it a coveted prize for players. Its sleek, golden design sets it apart from other weapons, adding to its allure and mystique.
Players must exercise skill and strategy to obtain the Golden Gun, as it typically appears in specific locations, often drawing fierce competition. The weapon is a nod to its cinematic counterpart, as it reflects the style and sophistication of the James Bond franchise. In GoldenEye 007, the Golden Gun is not just a weapon; it embodies the tension and excitement of the game’s multiplayer experience, solidifying its place in gaming history as a symbol of power and precision.
Gravity Gun
Series: Half-Life
Wielder: Dr. Gordon Freeman
The Gravity Gun, officially known as the Zero Point Energy Field Manipulator, is one of the most innovative and beloved weapons in the Half-Life series, particularly showcased in Half-Life 2. This unique device allows players to manipulate and interact with the environment in unprecedented ways.
With the Gravity Gun, players can pick up, move, and launch objects, turning everyday items into makeshift projectiles against enemies. Its iconic mechanics encourage creative problem-solving and exploration, as players can use the environment to their advantage in combat and puzzle-solving scenarios.
This weapon’s sleek design and versatile capabilities make it a standout tool in the game, symbolizing Half-Life 2‘s commitment to interactivity and player agency. Its memorable moments, such as hurling explosive barrels or tossing objects at foes, have left a lasting impact on gaming and are often referenced in discussions about the evolution of physics-based gameplay.
Gunblade
Series: Final Fantasy
Wielder: (various)
The Gunblade is a unique weapon featured prominently in the Final Fantasy series, most notably wielded by Squall Leonhart in Final Fantasy VIII. This innovative weapon combines the functionality of a sword with that of a firearm, featuring a blade with a gun mechanism embedded in its hilt. The Gunblade is designed for both close-quarters combat and ranged attacks, allowing for a versatile fighting style.
In gameplay, the Gunblade is often characterized by its special ability to unleash powerful melee strikes that can be enhanced through timing and skillful inputs, making it a weapon of both precision and flair. The iconic aesthetic of the Gunblade—often seen with sleek designs and intricate details—adds to its appeal, symbolizing the fusion of technology and traditional swordsmanship that defines Final Fantasy VIII. The weapon’s distinctive mechanics and visual style have made it a memorable and celebrated aspect of the franchise, contributing to the enduring legacy of Squall and his journey.
Hidden Blade
Series: Assassin’s Creed
Wielder: (various)
The Hidden Blade is an iconic weapon featured in the Assassin’s Creed series, synonymous with the game’s stealthy gameplay and narrative of stealthy assassins. This retractable blade, worn on the wrist, allows Assassins to execute swift and silent takedowns of their targets, embodying the principles of stealth and precision.
Initially introduced by the legendary character Altair Ibn-La’Ahad, the Hidden Blade has evolved throughout the series, showcasing various upgrades and adaptations, including dual-wielding capabilities. Its design and function highlight the Assassin’s Creed philosophy of blending in with their surroundings while eliminating threats without drawing attention. The Hidden Blade has become a symbol of the Assassin Brotherhood, representing the struggle for freedom and justice in a world dominated by oppressive powers.
Keyblade
Series: Kingdom Hearts
Wielder: Sora
The Keyblade from Kingdom Hearts is a mystical weapon that takes the shape of a large key, serving as both a sword and a tool for unlocking pathways between worlds. Wielded by the series’ protagonist, Sora, the Keyblade has the unique power to unlock hearts and seal or open the gateways to different realms.
Its design changes based on the wielder’s strength and bonds with others, making it more than just a weapon—it’s a symbol of the connection between friends and the battle between light and darkness.
Lightsaber
Series: Star Wars
Wielder: (various)
The lightsaber is one of the most iconic weapons in the Star Wars universe, characterized by its glowing plasma blade and hilt. Traditionally wielded by Jedi and Sith, the lightsaber serves not only as a weapon of combat but also as a symbol of a Jedi’s connection to the Force and their commitment to peace and justice. In video games, the lightsaber is often featured as a primary weapon, allowing players to engage in fast-paced, strategic lightsaber duels against enemies and rival Force users.
Its unique design enables a variety of combat styles, from powerful strikes to precise, agile maneuvers, often complemented by Force abilities. Games like Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, and Star Wars Battlefront have successfully incorporated the lightsaber into their gameplay mechanics, enhancing the immersive experience of the Star Wars lore and allowing players to feel like true Jedi or Sith as they wield this legendary weapon.
Master Sword
Series: The Legend of Zelda
Wielder: Link
The Master Sword, often referred to as the “Blade of Evil’s Bane,” is one of the most iconic weapons in The Legend of Zelda series. Recognized for its distinctive blue hilt and elegant design, this legendary sword is synonymous with the hero Link and is crucial for battling the forces of darkness, particularly the evil Ganon. The Master Sword is imbued with magical properties, making it the only weapon capable of defeating certain foes and sealing away evil.
To wield it, Link must often prove his worth by completing various challenges and earning the right to possess this powerful blade. In addition to its combat prowess, the Master Sword symbolizes courage, hope, and the eternal struggle between good and evil, making it a central element of the series’ rich lore and narrative. Its presence is a testament to the enduring legacy of The Legend of Zelda franchise and its impact on gaming culture.
Mega Buster
Series: Mega Man
Wielder: Mega Man
The Mega Buster is the signature weapon of the iconic character Mega Man from the Mega Man series. This powerful arm cannon allows Mega Man to shoot energy blasts at enemies, making it a versatile tool for both offense and defense. The Mega Buster is known for its ability to charge up, unleashing a more powerful shot that can deal significant damage to tougher foes.
Throughout the series, the Mega Buster is complemented by the ability to acquire new weaponry by defeating Robot Masters, which adds a strategic element to gameplay. Each weapon offers unique abilities and advantages, allowing players to customize their approach to combat. The Mega Buster’s sleek design and distinctive charging mechanic have made it an enduring symbol of the franchise, representing the blend of action, platforming, and creativity that defines the Mega Man experience. Its legacy continues to influence game design and character weaponry in the gaming industry today.
Plasma Cutter
Series: Dead Space
Wielder: Isaac Clarke
The Plasma Cutter is a hallmark weapon in the Dead Space series, renowned for its precision and versatility in the battle against the terrifying Necromorphs. Designed as a mining tool, this compact and powerful cutter fires high-energy plasma streams that can slice through flesh and bone with ease.
Players can rotate the cutter to adjust the beam’s orientation, allowing for strategic targeting of enemies’ limbs—a crucial tactic in a game where dismemberment is key to survival. Its iconic design, featuring a sleek, industrial aesthetic, complements the game’s sci-fi horror theme, while its reliability and effectiveness make it a favorite among players. The Plasma Cutter symbolizes the blend of utilitarian function and horror elements that defines Dead Space, solidifying its place as one of gaming’s most memorable weapons.
Portal Gun
Series: Portal
Wielder: Chell
The Portal Gun, also known as the Aperture Science Handheld Portal Device, is the iconic tool that defines the gameplay experience in the Portal series. This innovative weapon allows players to create two interconnected portals on flat surfaces, enabling instant travel between them.
With its distinctive blue and orange portal colors, the Portal Gun facilitates mind-bending puzzles and encourages creative problem-solving as players navigate the game’s challenging test chambers.
Its unique mechanics not only revolutionized traditional platforming gameplay but also added layers of complexity to environmental interactions. The Portal Gun’s clever design and humorous presentation, along with its integral role in the narrative and world-building of Portal, have solidified it as one of the most recognizable and beloved weapons in video game history.
Scorpion’s Spear
Series: Mortal Kombat
Wielder: Scorpion
Scorpion’s Spear, famously known by its catchphrase “Get over here!” or “Come here!”, is one of the most iconic weapons in the Mortal Kombat series, wielded by the ninja warrior Scorpion. This signature move features a kunai attached to a chain that Scorpion throws at his opponents to ensnare them, pulling them closer for a brutal follow-up attack.
The spear not only serves as a deadly weapon in combat but also symbolizes Scorpion’s relentless pursuit of vengeance against his enemies. Its distinctive design, often depicted as a fiery yellow or gold, reflects Scorpion’s hellish origins and fiery persona. In gameplay, the spear is integral to Scorpion’s combat style, allowing for strategic approaches to zoning and punishing opponents. Over the years, it has become a beloved element of the Mortal Kombat franchise, showcasing the series’ blend of visceral action and memorable characters.
Soul Edge
Series: Soulcalibur
Wielder: Nightmare (primary)
The Soul Edge is a central weapon in the Soulcalibur series, known for its dark and mystical attributes. Often referred to as the “Sword of Evil,” Soul Edge is a powerful, cursed blade that grants immense strength to its wielder but also corrupts their soul. The sword is visually striking, featuring a jagged, serrated edge and a blood-red hue, embodying its sinister nature and the violence it instigates.
The weapon’s lore is deeply entwined with the overarching narrative of the Soulcalibur series, representing the eternal struggle between good and evil. It has been sought after by many characters, each drawn to its allure and power, often at great personal cost. Soul Edge’s influence is significant, not only in combat, where it enhances the abilities of its user but also as a catalyst for conflict, driving characters to battle for its possession. Its legacy continues throughout the franchise, symbolizing the themes of ambition, greed, and the consequences of wielding such formidable power.
Vampire Killer
Series: Castlevania
Wielder: (various)
The Vampire Killer is the iconic weapon wielded by the many protagonists of the Castlevania series, most notably by Simon Belmont and his descendants. This flexible, chain-like whip is emblematic of the series and is often depicted as a holy relic imbued with supernatural power. Its primary purpose is to combat the forces of darkness, including vampires, ghouls, and other monstrous creatures that populate the series.
This weapon is versatile, allowing players to strike enemies from a distance and break objects in their path. Over the course of the games, it can be upgraded to various forms which grants enhanced damage and special abilities. The weapon’s iconic design and the rhythmic, whip-cracking sound have become synonymous with the franchise, making it not just a tool for combat but a symbol of the enduring struggle between good and evil in the Castlevania universe.