Have you ever wondered about who the main fighters are in the Guilty Gear world? Knowing the characters can make a huge difference whether you’re just starting or have been playing for a while. Developed by Arc System Works, Guilty Gear is packed with a diverse roster of fighters, each with its own backstory and unique playstyle.
Some are all about raw power, while others are known for their speed or tricky mechanics. In this guide, we’ll break down the key characters, helping you get familiar with their strengths and what makes them stand out.
What is Guilty Gear?
Guilty Gear is a popular series of Japanese fighting games developed by Arc System Works, known for its fast-paced, technical combat, distinctive anime-inspired art style, and deep storylines. Created by Daisuke Ishiwatari, the franchise debuted in 1998 on the original PlayStation.
The games feature unique characters, each with their fighting styles, special moves, and combos. Unlike many other fighting games, Guilty Gear emphasizes complex mechanics, such as “Roman Cancels” (which allow players to cancel moves and create new combo opportunities), “Burst” systems, and “Tension Gauges” for super moves.
Guilty Gear Characters
Basic Character Information
| Name | Role | Playstyle | First Appearance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sol Badguy | Main Protagonist | Aggressive | Guilty Gear |
| Ky Kiske | Main Rival | Balanced | Guilty Gear |
| May | Pirate Fighter | Powerful & Unpredictable | Guilty Gear |
| Millia Rage | Swift Assassin | Fast & Aggressive | Guilty Gear |
| Zato-1 | Assassin Leader | Complex & Tricky | Guilty Gear |
| Axl Low | Time Traveler | Long-Range Control | Guilty Gear |
| Chipp Zanuff | Ninja Fighter | Speed & Offense | Guilty Gear |
| Faust | Eccentric Doctor | Unpredictable & Varied | Guilty Gear |
| Potemkin | Powerhouse | Slow & Powerful | Guilty Gear |
| Baiken | Vengeful Warrior | Offensive & Defensive | Guilty Gear |
| Testament | Necromancer | Strategic & Complex | Guilty Gear |
| Justice | Antagonist | Versatile & Powerful | Guilty Gear |
Beginner Friendly Characters
| Character | Reason |
|---|---|
| Sol Badguy | Balanced moves and straightforward abilities |
| Ky Kiske | Versatile moveset with easy-to-learn attacks |
| May | Powerful attacks and simple mechanics |
| Axl Low | Long-range control for safer play |
Characters by Unique Playstyle
| Character | Unique Trait |
|---|---|
| Zato-1 | Controls a shadow named Eddie for dual attacks |
| May | Uses an anchor and controls dolphins |
| Millia Rage | Uses hair as a weapon with high speed |
| Faust | Quirky moveset with unpredictable tools |
| Nagoriyuki | Vampire samurai with blood-based mechanics |
Here is the complete list of characters in Guilty Gear;
1. Sol Badguy
Sol Badguy is the main character in Guilty Gear, known for his sheer power and aggressive fighting style. His backstory is rich and deeply connected to the game’s lore, making him a central figure.
As a versatile fighter, he excels in offense but also has solid defensive options. Players who enjoy straightforward, hard-hitting tactics will find him a perfect choice, as his moveset combines powerful attacks with resilience in battle.
2. Ky Kiske
Ky Kiske is one of the main rivals to Sol Badguy in the Guilty Gear series. As a noble knight, Ky is driven by strong ideals of justice and honor, often clashing with Sol’s more chaotic nature. In terms of gameplay, Ky offers a balanced and versatile moveset, making him accessible to both beginners and experienced players.
His focus on speed, precise strikes, and technique allows for a well-rounded fighting style. Ky’s abilities also include powerful lightning-based attacks, which help control the pace of the battle. If you’re looking for a fighter who offers a bit of everything, Ky is a top pick.
3. May
May brings a fun yet dangerous vibe to Guilty Gear. As a cheerful pirate, her upbeat personality contrasts with her formidable fighting skills. She wields an enormous anchor as her weapon, which adds significant power to her attacks. What sets May apart is her ability to control dolphins, using them as part of her moveset to surprise and overwhelm opponents.
Her fighting style is playful yet highly unpredictable, making her a challenging opponent to face. Despite her cheerful nature, May’s attacks pack a punch, and her versatility allows players to experiment with different strategies.
4. Millia Rage
Millia Rage is a swift and deadly assassin in Guilty Gear, known for her unique ability to use her hair as a weapon. Her speed and agility make her a top pick for players who favor fast, aggressive playstyles. Millia excels in hit-and-run tactics, striking quickly and then retreating before the opponent can react.
Her hair manipulation allows her to launch various ranged and close-quarters attacks, making it difficult for her to predict. While her offensive capabilities are strong, she requires precise control and timing to master.
5. Zato-1
Zato-1, a former leader of the Assassin’s Guild in Guilty Gear, is one of the most complex characters in the game. He fights by controlling a shadow named Eddie, which can act independently to attack opponents. This unique ability allows Zato-1 to control two characters simultaneously, making him a tricky but rewarding character to master.
His shadow can perform various attacks, offering various offensive and defensive options. However, Zato-1’s gameplay requires excellent timing and strategy, as managing Zato and Eddie effectively is key to dominating opponents.
6. Axl Low
Axl Low is renowned for his time-traveling abilities and long-range attacks. Armed with chain-sickles, Axl can strike opponents from a distance, which makes him a formidable choice for players who prefer to fight from afar. His unique skill set allows him to control the battlefield precisely, keeping enemies at bay while delivering powerful, ranged assaults.
Axl’s moves are designed to keep opponents off balance, making him effective for players who like to maintain their distance and use strategic attacks. His distinctive playstyle adds a unique dimension to the Guilty Gear roster, offering a different approach to combat.
7. Chipp Zanuff
Chipp Zanuff is celebrated for his lightning-fast agility and rapid movements. Chipp excels in speed as a ninja, allowing him to outmaneuver opponents with ease. His fighting style revolves around quick strikes and fast-paced attacks, making him a challenging adversary. Chipp’s ability to swiftly dodge and counterattack provides a dynamic and unpredictable playstyle.
His quick, aggressive maneuvers can overwhelm opponents before they can react. For players who enjoy a high-speed, offensive approach, Chipp Zanuff offers an exhilarating and practical choice. His agility and speed make him a standout character in the Guilty Gear lineup.
8. Faust
Faust is a quirky and eccentric doctor known for his unpredictable and varied moves. His fighting style is anything but conventional, utilizing a mix of bizarre and surprising attacks that can disorient and confuse opponents. Faust’s moveset includes a range of strange tools and tricks, making each match with him an unpredictable experience.
This unconventional approach to the combat requires players to think on their feet and adapt quickly to the chaos Faust brings to the battlefield. His unique playstyle makes him a standout character in Guilty Gear, offering a fresh and engaging challenge for those who enjoy mastering complex and unusual tactics.
9. Potemkin
Potemkin is a massive powerhouse in Guilty Gear, known for his heavy-hitting attacks and impressive defense. His sheer size and strength make him a formidable opponent, ideal for players who prefer a slower, more deliberate combat style. Potemkin’s attacks, while not the fastest, deliver devastating damage that can turn the tide of battle quickly.
His defensive capabilities are also notable, allowing him to withstand significant punishment while waiting for the right moment to strike back. Although his moves may be slower compared to other characters, their impact is profound.
10. Baiken
Baiken is a formidable warrior driven by a deep sense of vengeance. Known for her impressive katana skills, she combines powerful strikes with defensive maneuvers. Her fighting style focuses on both offense and defense, allowing her to deliver crushing blows while effectively countering her opponents.
Baiken excels at punishing mistakes and exploiting openings, making every hit she lands highly impactful. Her gameplay requires precision and timing, as she must balance aggressive attacks with careful defense.
11. Testament
Testament is a mysterious character known for their necromantic abilities and dark powers. Their fighting style revolves around summoning various spirits and using dark magic to control the battlefield. Testament’s gameplay is both strategic and complex, involving a mix of offensive and defensive tactics.
Testament can summon entities and manipulate dark forces to create powerful setups and disrupt opponents’ strategies. This makes them challenging characters to master, as effective use of their abilities requires careful planning and precise execution.
12. Justice
Justice is one of the key characters in the Guilty Gear series, known for her role as a powerful antagonist. As the original creator of the Gears, she wields immense power and has a complex backstory. Her fighting style is characterized by her ability to manipulate energy and unleash devastating attacks. Justice combines long-range assaults with powerful, close-quarters strikes, making her a versatile and dangerous opponent.
Her gameplay involves controlling the battlefield with various high-damage moves and powerful specials that can overwhelm even the most skilled players. Mastering Justice requires a deep understanding of her abilities and strategic use of her energy-based attacks.
13. Kliff Undersn
Kliff Undersn is a character in the Guilty Gear series known for his imposing presence and powerful attacks. A former leader of the Sacred Order of Holy Knights, Kliff wields a massive sword with great skill and strength.
His fighting style is characterized by heavy, powerful strikes and wide-ranging attacks that can easily clear out opponents. Kliff’s gameplay focuses on overwhelming foes with sheer force and maintaining battlefield control through his massive weapon.
Despite his slower movement compared to faster characters, his attacks deal significant damage and can turn the tide of battle in his favor.
Characters Introduced in Guilty Gear X
1. Anji Mito
Anji Mito is a graceful yet powerful character in Guilty Gear, known for using weapons. His fighting style combines elegant, flowing movements with hard-hitting attacks. Anji’s fans allow him to perform a range of unique and versatile moves, including sweeping strikes and defensive maneuvers.
His gameplay centers on maintaining fluidity and control, using his fans to attack and defend effectively.
2. Dizzy
Dizzy is a hybrid character in Guilty Gear with a complex connection to the Gears, adding depth to her backstory. Her abilities blend offensive and defensive capabilities, making her a versatile fighter. Dizzy’s unique powers require strategic use to maximize their effectiveness.
Her gameplay involves a mix of powerful attacks and defensive moves, allowing her to control the flow of battle and outmaneuver opponents. Mastering Dizzy means leveraging her hybrid nature to adapt to various combat situations, making her a compelling choice for players who enjoy a strategic and multifaceted fighting style.
3. Jam Kuradoberi
Jam Kuradoberi is a master chef specializing in using various martial arts techniques combined with her signature cooking-themed attacks. Jam’s gameplay focuses on speed and versatility, allowing her to execute quick, powerful strikes and special moves.
Her abilities include rapid combos and unique techniques that can catch opponents off guard. If you enjoy a character with a blend of swift offensive capabilities and a touch of flair, Jam Kuradoberi offers an exciting and energetic combat experience.
4. Johnny
Johnny is the captain of the airship May Ship, known for his impressive swordplay and flashy style. His combat revolves around high-speed slashes and stylish techniques that make him visually striking and effective. Johnny’s moves include rapid, powerful strikes that overwhelm opponents, showcasing his agility and precision.
His gameplay is designed for players who enjoy a dynamic, high-energy fighting style with a focus on speed and showmanship. With his elegant and powerful attacks, Johnny offers a thrilling and engaging experience for those who appreciate a blend of flair and effectiveness in their characters.
5. Venom
Venom is an orphan raised by the Assassin’s Guild. His fighting style revolves around strategically placing and manipulating these balls, allowing him to control the battlefield and launch long-range attacks.
Venom’s gameplay involves setting up traps and executing precise shots to disrupt opponents and deal significant damage.
His ability to use the billiard balls both offensively and defensively adds a layer of tactical depth to his combat style.
Characters Introduced in Guilty Gear X2 and updates
1. Bridget
Bridget is a fan favorite, celebrated for her playful yet dangerous approach to combat. Her primary weapon is a yo-yo, which grants her a unique blend of long-range and close-quarters attacks. This versatile weapon allows Bridget to execute various techniques, from sweeping strikes to precise, controlled moves.
Her unpredictable and dynamic fighting style enables her to keep opponents guessing and adapt to different combat situations.
2. Robo-Ky
Robo-Ky is a line of robotic copies of Ky Kiske. With his mechanical precision and advanced weaponry, Robo-Ky brings a unique twist to the series. His fighting style is characterized by powerful, high-tech attacks and defensive capabilities.
He uses various gadgets and built-in systems to deliver explosive strikes and maintain control of the battlefield. His gameplay emphasizes a blend of futuristic technology and traditional combat techniques, offering a distinctive and strategic approach.
3. Slayer
Slayer is one of the few surviving species of a nearly extinct ancient vampire race Nightless. He combines fast, aggressive attacks with supernatural prowess as a formidable fighter. Slayer’s moves are characterized by their speed and fluidity, allowing him to overwhelm opponents with swift, devastating blows.
His vampiric nature also grants him unique abilities, such as the power to drain health and recover quickly. This blend of speed, strength, and supernatural skills makes Slayer a dynamic and challenging character, perfect for players who enjoy a high-energy, offensive playstyle.
4. Zappa
Zappa is an unlucky young man in Guilty Gear known for his unpredictable and bizarre fighting style. Possessed by various spirits, Zappa’s abilities fluctuate, leading to various attacks and effects. His gameplay revolves around the random nature of his spirits, which can summon anything from powerful offensive moves to strange, disruptive abilities.
This unpredictability makes Zappa both challenging and exciting to play, as his attacks and strategies can vary greatly from match to match. For players who enjoy a character with a high level of variability and a touch of chaos, Zappa offers a distinctive and thrilling experience.
Characters Introduced in Guilty Gear Isuka
1. A.B.A
A.B.A is an artificial life-form, or homunculus, created by a scientist living within “Frasco” mountain. She wields a large, spiked club with a distinctive playstyle centered around her ability to absorb and unleash powerful energy attacks.
A.B.A.’s gameplay involves managing her energy levels to maximize her offensive and defensive capabilities. Her attacks are characterized by their high impact and range, allowing her to dominate the battlefield.
2. Robo-Ky Mk. II
Robo-Ky Mk. II is an upgraded model of the original Robo-Ky. Mk. II features improved weaponry and refined mechanics, enhancing his effectiveness in battle.
His fighting style focuses on a combination of heavy, high-damage attacks and sophisticated defensive techniques. With upgraded systems and enhanced performance, Robo-Ky Mk. II can execute more precise and devastating moves.
His gameplay offers a unique blend of high-tech power and strategic depth, making him an exciting choice for players who enjoy a futuristic, high-performance fighter.
3. Leopaldon
Leopaldon is the boss of Guilty Gear Isuka, known for his imposing size and formidable combat skills. As a giant, his attacks are heavy-hitting and designed to dominate opponents with sheer force. Leopaldon’s gameplay focuses on overwhelming foes through powerful, close-quarters strikes and impressive defensive capabilities.
His massive size and strength make him a tough opponent, requiring strategic play to counter his brute force.
Characters Introduced in Guilty Gear 2: Overture
1. Dr. Paradigm
Dr. Paradigm is recognized for his eccentric and scientific approach to combat. As a mad scientist, his fighting style is defined by a range of quirky and experimental attacks. He uses various gadgets and inventions to outwit and overwhelm his opponents. Dr. Paradigm’s moves often involve unpredictable elements, reflecting his inventive and unpredictable nature.
His gameplay requires players to master a mix of unconventional techniques and strategic use of his gadgets.
2. Izuna
Izuna is a Japanese fox spirit from a mysterious race called the Yokai. As a skilled warrior, Izuna combines swift, precise strikes with supernatural abilities, offering a unique combat style that balances physical prowess with magical elements.
His gameplay focuses on high-speed attacks and the strategic use of his mystical powers to control the flow of battle. Izuna’s versatility and depth make him a fascinating character to master, appealing to players who enjoy a mix of martial skill and mystical flair. His presence adds a rich layer to the Guilty Gear roster.
3. Raven
Raven is an accomplished soldier who has won many victories in the war against a foreign country. He manipulates the battlefield using a mix of dark energy and supernatural abilities. Raven’s fighting style is distinctive, with attacks that can alter distances and create unpredictable effects. His moves include teleportation and powerful, ranged assaults that keep opponents guessing.
This versatility allows him to adapt to various combat situations, making him a challenging character to master.
4. Sin Kiske
Son of the king of Illyuria, Ky Kiske, and the Maiden of the Grove, who was confirmed to be Dizzy, Sin Kiske is a dynamic character in Guilty Gear with a unique blend of youthful energy and formidable combat skills. Sin inherits a powerful fighting style that combines agility with powerful, high-impact attacks.
He wields a massive sword known as the “Dragon Slayer,” which he uses for both powerful slashes and long-range strikes. Sin’s gameplay focuses on quick, aggressive moves and a mix of powerful physical attacks, making him a versatile and exciting fighter.
5. Valentine
Valentine is the exact copy of Aria, who is one form of the genocide Gear Justice. She wields a variety of medical tools and gadgets that she uses both offensively and defensively. Her fighting style combines healing abilities with potent attacks, allowing her to support herself while engaging enemies.
Valentine’s unique blend of medical skills and combat prowess makes her a versatile and strategic fighter. Her gameplay involves managing both offensive moves and recovery techniques, creating a dynamic and multifaceted combat experience for players who enjoy a character with a balance of support and aggression.
Characters Introduced in Guilty Gear Xrd And Updates
1. Answer
The answer is a chief officer of Chipp Zanuff, known for his role as a financial advisor turned fighter. His unique combat style revolves around using his briefcase as both a weapon and a shield. Answer employs a mix of strategic and powerful moves, incorporating the briefcase for various attacks and defensive maneuvers.
His gameplay emphasizes versatility and adaptability, allowing him to handle multiple combat scenarios effectively.
2. Bedman
Bedman is a smart and fast-talking character in Guilty Gear with a unique fighting style centered around his nightmarish, dream-themed abilities. He uses a large, floating bed as his primary weapon and control mechanism, allowing him to perform a range of bizarre and powerful attacks. Bedman’s gameplay focuses on manipulating his opponent’s positioning and using his bed to execute complex combos and traps.
His abilities create an unpredictable and eerie combat environment, challenging players to adapt to his unconventional style.
3. Elphelt Valentine
Elphelt Valentine is a character first introduced in the console version of Guilty Gear. As a former Gear, she blends her chaotic nature with a range of high-impact, gun-based attacks.
Elphelt’s combat style incorporates rapid, precise shooting and intricate weaponry, allowing her to control the battlefield with a mix of offensive and defensive maneuvers. Her gameplay is dynamic and fast-paced, with special moves that can overwhelm opponents and shift the momentum of a fight.
4. Jack-O’ Valentine
Jack-OValentine is known for using Jack O’Lantern-themed weapons such as explosives. She wields the power of her own personal minions, which she can deploy on the battlefield to control space and create tactical advantages. Jack-O’s fighting style focuses on summoning these minions to execute various attacks and set up traps.
Her abilities allow her to manipulate the flow of combat, making her a versatile and unpredictable opponent. With her emphasis on strategy and positioning, Jack-O offers an engaging and complex experience for players who enjoy a character with a blend of offense and tactical depth.
5. Kum Haehyun
Kum Haehyun is the head of the Kum family and a descendant of “Tuners” who can control the flow of energy. Known for his powerful, versatile moves, Kum utilizes a combination of swift strikes and defensive maneuvers. His fighting style revolves around fluid, precise attacks that showcase his mastery of various martial arts disciplines.
Kum’s ability to adapt to different combat situations makes him a formidable opponent. His diverse moveset and tactical depth offer players a dynamic and engaging experience, making him an appealing choice for those who enjoy a well-rounded, strategic fighting style.
6. Leo Whitefang
As the King of Illyria, Leo Whitefang combines martial prowess with a commanding presence. His fighting style revolves around strong, decisive strikes and impressive swordplay.
Leo’s gameplay features a mix of powerful attacks and strategic moves, allowing him to dominate opponents with both offense and defense. His regal demeanor and battle-ready skills make him a formidable character on the battlefield.
7. Ramlethal Valentine
Ramlethal Valentine is a central figure in Guilty Gear. She wields enormous swords with devastating effects, using them to control the flow of battle.
Her fighting style combines swift, aggressive strikes with strategic swordplay, allowing her to deliver high-damage attacks and maintain distance from opponents. Ramlethal’s gameplay involves a mix of powerful offensive moves and versatile techniques, making her a challenging and effective character for players who appreciate a blend of strength and strategy in combat.
Characters Introduced in Guilty Gear Strive
1. Asuka R. Kreutz
Asuka R. Kreutz is known for his deep connection to the game’s lore and his role in its overarching narrative. As the father of Ky Kiske, Asuka’s backstory is deeply intertwined with the creation of the Gears and the series’ central conflicts.
Although he doesn’t actively participate in battles, his influence is significant, shaping the events and character dynamics throughout the series. Asuka’s presence and actions impact the storyline profoundly, making him a key figure in understanding the broader context and history of Guilty Gear.
2. Delilah Neumann
Delilah Neumann is the younger sister of the late Bedman, Romeo, and an unwitting antagonist. As a key part of the game’s lore, Delilah’s abilities are shrouded in intrigue and complexity. Her combat style combines elements of mysticism and power with moves that reflect her deep connection to the game’s rich narrative.
Delilah’s gameplay emphasizes the strategic use of her unique abilities, which can disrupt opponents and influence the flow of battle.
3. Giovanna
Giovanna is a Brazilian officer in the special operations unit that protects the President of the United States. As a special agent, she commands a spirit wolf that enhances her combat abilities. Giovanna’s fighting style is characterized by her swift, aggressive moves and her wolf’s support, allowing for a mix of fast strikes and devastating combos.
Her gameplay focuses on high mobility and explosive attacks, making her effective in both close and mid-range combat.
4. Goldlewis Dickinson
Goldlewis Dickinson is the overweight right-hand man of the 76th US President Colin Vernon E. Groubitz. He wields a massive, coffin-like device packed with heavy artillery, adding a unique twist to his combat style. Goldlewis combines powerful, long-range attacks with strong defensive capabilities, using his weapon to unleash devastating firepower.
His gameplay revolves around controlling space and applying pressure with his artillery. With a mix of raw strength and strategic firepower, Goldlewis offers a distinctive and impactful fighting experience.
5. Happy Chaos
Happy Chaos is an overreaching antagonist known for his wild, unpredictable fighting style. Armed with various firearms and a flair for the dramatic, he combines gunplay with unorthodox tactics to keep opponents off balance.
His gameplay involves a mix of rapid-fire attacks and strategic positioning. He uses his arsenal to create openings and control the flow of battle. Happy Chaos’s erratic and high-energy approach makes him a challenging character to master, providing a thrilling experience for players who enjoy a blend of gunfighting and unpredictable combat strategies.
6. Nagoriyuki
Nagoriyuki is a dark-skinned Nigerian Nightless vampire samurai. He combines raw strength with advanced sword techniques, wielding a massive weapon that enhances his powerful attacks. Nagoriyuki’s gameplay focuses on brutal, high-damage strikes and special abilities tied to his vampire nature.
His playstyle requires careful management of his health and special resources, adding a strategic element to his combat.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is the Best Guilty Gear Character for Beginners?
Characters like Sol Badguy and Ky Kiske are often recommended for beginners. Their balanced movements and straightforward abilities make it easier to pick up and play effectively.
2. Who is the Most Challenging Guilty Gear Character to Master?
Zato-1 and Nagoriyuki are considered among the most challenging to master. Zato-1’s complex shadow control mechanics and Nagoriyuki’s resource management require in-depth understanding and precise execution.
3. What is the Best Way to Learn a New Guilty Gear Character?
You can start by practicing in training mode to understand your character’s moves and combos. You can also watch tutorials and watch videos to learn effective strategies and techniques.
4. Can I Customize the Appearance of My Guilty Gear Characters?
In Guilty Gear Strive, customization options include different colors and skins for characters. However, in-depth customization beyond these options is limited.
5. Which Guilty Gear Character is Best for Players Who Prefer a Defensive Style?
Characters like Ramlethal Valentine and Faust offer strong defensive capabilities and control over the battlefield, making them suitable for players who prefer a more defensive approach.
Wrapping Up
Guilty Gear offers a diverse and engaging roster of characters, each contributing uniquely to the game’s rich and varied combat experience. From the raw power of Sol Badguy to the strategic depth of the Testament, every fighter brings something special to the table.
Understanding each character’s strengths and strategies is key to mastering the game and finding the one that best suits your approach.
With continuous updates and expansions, Guilty Gear remains dynamic, ensuring that there’s always something new to explore and master.
