The "Call of Duty" series has solidified its place as one of the most iconic military shooters in gaming history over the past few decades. This franchise has not only excelled in gameplay and graphical fidelity but has also created a host of memorable characters that have left a lasting impact on players. These characters range from valiant heroes and cunning antagonists to enigmatic special operatives. Whether they are protagonists or pivotal supporting roles, each one has contributed to an incredibly immersive gaming experience.
Among the many unforgettable characters, we've selected the top 20 most outstanding and representative figures from the "Call of Duty" universe.
By exploring these 20 emblematic characters, we not only gain insight into the evolution of the "Call of Duty" series over the years but also experience the immersive war stories and heroic sagas that have captivated players.
Join us as we revisit these classic figures and appreciate the unique charm they have brought to the game.
Part 1: 20 Best COD Characters
Part 2: How to Ensure Optimal COD Gaming?
Part 1: 20 Best COD Characters
1. CAPTAIN PRICE
Captain John Price, also known by his call sign "Bravo Six," is a member of the British Special Air Service (SAS) and serves as the main protagonist in the Modern Warfare series. He also appears in Call of Duty: Online, Call of Duty: Heroes, and Call of Duty: Mobile.Undoubtedly one of the most iconic and recognizable characters in Call of Duty history, Captain John Price's legacy began in 2007 with his debut in the original Modern Warfare game. Since then, he has established himself as a formidable presence in the Call of Duty universe. As a skilled warrior and an inspirational leader, Captain Price has proven time and again to be a force of nature, playing a crucial role in saving the world on numerous occasions.
2. CAPTAIN JOHN ‘SOAP’ MACTAVISH
Captain John "Soap" MacTavish, of German descent, is a prominent character in the Modern Warfare series. He also appears in Call of Duty: Heroes and Call of Duty: Online. Soap is a key playable character in Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare and its remastered version, serving as a Sergeant and Special Forces operative. He specializes as a sniper and demolitions expert within the 22nd SAS Regiment.
In Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (2007), Soap is initially introduced as the "FNG," or the new guy in town. Despite being mocked for his nickname and initially underestimated by his superior, Captain Price, Soap quickly proves himself to be one of the sharpest and most capable soldiers in the Call of Duty series. Although his presence in the series is shorter than that of Captain Price, Soap remains an influential character, leaving a lasting legacy in some of the franchise's most beloved games.
3. FRANK WOODS
Master Sergeant Frank Woods is a recurring character in the Call of Duty: Black Ops series. He serves as a deuteragonist in the missions set during the 1980s, a playable character, and the protagonist in the 2025 missions of Call of Duty: Black Ops II. Woods also plays a central role in Call of Duty: Black Ops: Declassified and appears as a support character in Specialists HQ, as well as a playable character in the Blackout mode of Call of Duty: Black Ops 4.
Frank Woods is a driving force in the Call of Duty: Black Ops sub-series, known for his tough and uncompromising nature. He also appears as an operator in Modern Warfare, Warzone, and Call of Duty: Mobile. Woods made his debut in the 2010 release of Black Ops, quickly establishing himself as one of the most formidable characters in the Call of Duty franchise. A soldier through and through, Woods is portrayed as the ultimate warrior, shaped by his experiences in the jungles of Vietnam.
4. GENERAL SHEPHERD
Lieutenant General Shepherd is a high-ranking officer in the United States Army featured in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2. He commands Task Force 141 and Shadow Company. Initially portrayed as an ally to the player, Shepherd ultimately reveals himself as the main antagonist in the game.
Without Shepherd, many of the most significant events in the Call of Duty series might not have occurred. He plays a pivotal role in the series, embodying a twisted adversary driven by misguided patriotic ideals. His dramatic turn to the dark side in the 2009 release of Modern Warfare 2 is one of the most memorable moments in the franchise's history. To this day, fans vividly recall Shepherd's actions. He stands out as one of the most compelling characters in COD, not because of his heroism, but because of his deceit and betrayal.
5. VLADIMIR MAKAROV
Vladimir Makarov is not only one of the most iconic characters in the Call of Duty franchise but also stands out as one of the best villains in gaming history. As the leader of a rogue faction within the Ultranationalist party and a protégé of the party's former leader, Imran Zakhaev, Makarov masterminded a global conflict that triggered events with far-reaching consequences. A master terrorist, Makarov orchestrated the infamous airport massacre in Modern Warfare 2, where he coldly walked through the terminal, gunning down hundreds of innocent civilians, further fueling the flames of an already intense war. His demise in the 2011 game Modern Warfare 3 is equally memorable, as he meets his end at the hands of Captain Price, concluding one of the most notorious arcs in the series.
6. ALEX MASON
The line "What do the numbers mean, Mason?" has become synonymous with one of the best Call of Duty games in history. In 2011, Alex Mason emerged as the protagonist of Black Ops, leaving a lasting impression with a captivating and memorable portrayal in the first game. His journey continued throughout the subseries, becoming a central figure in one of the most innovative and twist-filled stories in Call of Duty history. Even today, Mason remains one of the most compelling protagonists in the series.
Additionally, Mason appears as an NPC in Black Ops DS and as a playable character in Call of Duty: Black Ops: Declassified. He later returned as a supporting character in Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War, where players could take on his role in the missions "Nowhere Left to Run" and "Echoes of a Cold War."
7. SIMON ‘GHOST’ RILEY
Lieutenant Simon Riley, also known as "Ghost," is a notable character in the Call of Duty franchise, appearing in Modern Warfare, Modern Warfare II, and Modern Warfare III. In the first Modern Warfare game, Ghost is mentioned near the end of the campaign. However, in Modern Warfare 2, he takes center stage as one of the three playable protagonists.
Among the vast array of Call of Duty games and characters, Simon Riley stands out as one of the most mysterious and intense figures, known for his remarkable background and skills. Since his introduction in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, Ghost has become an iconic presence in the series. Although his original storyline only spanned a single game, he left a lasting impact on the franchise. He has since returned in several installments, most recently in the 2022 release of Modern Warfare II, where he continues to demonstrate his prowess as one of the most adept soldiers in the series' history. There's no doubt that Ghost is one of the most memorable and beloved characters in Call of Duty's history.
8. VIKTOR REZNOV
Captain Viktor Reznov (Russian: Виктор Резнов) is a pivotal character in the Call of Duty series, particularly in World at War and the Black Ops series. In Call of Duty: World at War, he serves as a sergeant in the Soviet Red Army. His relationships and influence on Dimitri Petrenko and Alex Mason play crucial roles in Call of Duty: Black Ops.
Reznov is a leader, an icon, and a force of nature. He stands as one of the greatest characters in the Call of Duty franchise, and frankly, omitting him from this list would be a grave oversight, as it almost feels like he might track us down purely out of sheer determination. He has been a prominent figure since Call of Duty: World at War in 2008, with his role in Black Ops in 2011 becoming iconic. He embodies a steadfast and capable warrior, a revolutionary, and a staunch patriot. Even after his eventual demise, the impact of his character endures, marking him as an unforgettable presence in the series.
9. FARAH AHMED KARIM
Commander Farah Ahmed Karim is one of the playable protagonists in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare. She reappears as a supporting character in the campaign story of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II and later as a playable protagonist in the Atomgrad Raid series. Farah is also featured as a playable protagonist in the campaign of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III.
Farah is one of the most resolute and unwavering characters in the history of Call of Duty. Her combat prowess is matched only by her ability to inspire those closest to her, making her an undeniable leader on the battlefield. In the 2019 Modern Warfare, we learn about the tragic events of her upbringing, which shaped her into the formidable warrior she is. Despite having a smaller role in 2022's Modern Warfare II, Farah's presence on screen remains captivating, solidifying her status as a memorable and influential character in the series.
10. CODENAME: NIKOLAI
"Nikolai" is the code name for a Russian informant within Imran Zakhaev's ultranationalist faction and an ally of the SAS in Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare and its remastered version. He continues to assist MacTavish and Price in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. His true name remains unknown.
Nikolai stands out as one of the greatest characters in the Call of Duty series, consistently playing a supporting role in each installment. From the earliest missions in Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, we are introduced to the intrigue and mystery surrounding this unique character, who seems ever ready to support Captain Price and his comrades in their military operations. He has repeatedly saved them from dire situations, and without his intervention, some of the series' most crucial characters might not have survived some particularly challenging predicaments.
11. Gary "Roach" Sanderson
Sergeant Gary "Roach" Sanderson serves as a key playable character in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 Campaign Remastered. Roach is a Special Forces operative with Task Force 141, commanded by Captain John "Soap" MacTavish, and he operates behind the scenes during the Third World War.
For many players, Modern Warfare 2 was their introduction to the Call of Duty franchise, and Roach quickly became a standout character. The game established early on that characters could die, as evidenced by the death of Joseph Allen. This set a tense tone, making players anxious for Roach’s safety, especially given his numerous close calls. The suspense culminates in a shocking betrayal and his subsequent death, leaving a lasting impact on players. Though Roach is a silent protagonist and his face is never shown, his actions speak volumes about his character. He is portrayed as a highly skilled soldier, dependable and supportive of his team. He could have survived the final mission if not for the betrayal by a member of his team. Despite his lack of visible or vocal presence, Roach’s bravery and dedication made him a memorable and well-respected figure within the game's narrative.
12.Bruce Harris
In the Call of Duty: Black Ops mission "WMD," a character is part of a team along with Hudson, Weaver, and Brooks, as they attempt to locate Nova-6. Harris is the only one who meets his end during this mission. He dies after a Russian soldier fires a rocket, destroying the platform they are on, causing him to fall. Hudson nearly manages to save him, but ultimately Harris falls to his death.
In 1968, during the "WMD" mission, Harris accompanies Jason Hudson, Grigori Weaver, and Terrance Brooks as they infiltrate a Soviet base in Yamantau. The team splits up, with Weaver and Hudson rappelling down through a window while Brooks and Harris descend to another walkway. Harris' fate is sealed when the walkway is destroyed, making him the sole casualty among the team members in this operation.
13.Sgt. Roebuck
In the "Call of Duty" series, it's not unusual to have a grizzled commander shouting orders at you. Among all the loud and commanding figures, Sergeant Roebuck from "World at War" stands out as one of the most compelling. He possesses the charisma and authority that every great leader needs, and his words are as sharp as his tactics. Roebuck plays a crucial role in the invasion of Makin Island, leading the assault force that rescues Miller and his recon team from a dire predicament. Alongside Sullivan and other Marine Raiders, they launch a daring attack on the island, freeing their captured comrades and making a narrow escape from the treacherous Makin Atoll.
Roebuck delivers some of the most stirring speeches in the game, often during mission briefings. His explanations of the objectives are clear and inspiring, providing not just strategic insight but also a morale boost. If there's anyone who can motivate you to storm the trenches and face the chaos of battle, it's Roebuck. His leadership and powerful words leave a lasting impression, making him an unforgettable character in the series.
14.Yuri
Commander Yuri (Арий in Russian) is a compelling character in the "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3," serving as one of the game's two protagonists and also appearing in "Call of Duty: Heroes." Once a proud member of the Russian Ultranationalists and a close friend of Vladimir Makarov, Yuri's story is marked by loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. He was a former Spetsnaz operative, a key player in the Loyalist forces led by Nikolai, and even considered to be Nikolai's best man. Yuri's involvement in the Ultranationalist movement was pivotal during the Third World War and the crises that followed. His deep connection with Makarov, forged during their time together in the Ultranationalist ranks, was highlighted by their joint rescue of Imran Zakhaev in Chernobyl in 1996 and their presence during the devastating bombing that killed 30,000 Marines.
However, Yuri's moral compass eventually led him to betray Makarov, especially after witnessing the heinous acts committed by the Ultranationalists, including the infamous airport massacre. This decision brought him into the fold of the Loyalists and alongside Task Force 141 members like John Price and John "Soap" MacTavish. Despite his past, Yuri proved himself a valuable ally, though his journey ended tragically when he was killed by Makarov in a final confrontation. His death was a pivotal moment, underscoring the complex relationship between him, Makarov, and his homeland. Yuri's story is a testament to his inner conflict, torn between his past affiliations and a desire to atone for his actions, making him one of the series' most nuanced characters.
15.Gaz
"Gaz," codenamed Bravo Five, is a key figure in the British Special Air Service (SAS) and a veteran Special Forces operator featured in "Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare" and its remastered version. The original iteration of Gaz differs significantly from the rebooted version. In the reboot series, Gaz becomes a more central character, playing a crucial role throughout the story.
In the rebooted "Modern Warfare" games, Gaz is not just another member of the team; he is a standout character with a prominent role. His character is fleshed out with more depth and personality. While he remains a loyal soldier who respects his commanding officers, Gaz is not afraid to speak his mind if he disagrees with a decision or action. This willingness to voice his opinions reflects his strong moral compass and desire to do the right thing, making him a relatable and likable character. His courage, integrity, and commitment to his principles set him apart, adding layers to his character and making him a memorable part of the series.
16.Raul Menendez
Raul Menendez is a prominent character in "Call of Duty: Black Ops II" and serves as the primary antagonist in "Call of Duty: Strike Team." As a Nicaraguan drug lord and the leader of the terrorist organization Cordis Die, Menendez orchestrates an unprecedented large-scale attack on the United States as retribution for the CIA's actions against his family decades earlier.
What sets Raul Menendez apart as one of the most compelling villains in the series is his complex and multi-dimensional nature. Unlike many other villains who often have shallow motivations, Menendez's radical actions are deeply driven by a strong personal vendetta. His character is richly developed, with a backstory that adds depth to his motivations, making him more than just a typical antagonist. Menendez is also unique in that he is one of the few villains in the series whose plans can succeed, depending on the player's choices in "Black Ops II." His popularity among fans is well-earned, as he serves as a memorable foil to the game's protagonists, largely due to his motives being far from purely evil. "Black Ops II" features one of the most engaging campaigns in the series, and Menendez is a crucial part of its success, offering a nuanced and unforgettable villain that challenges players' perceptions of morality and justice.
17.Ronald "Red" Daniels
Ronald "Red" Daniels is the central character in "Call of Duty: WWII," a key figure in the American 16th Infantry Regiment during the European liberation campaign. Though the game itself has sparked some debate, its campaign is widely regarded as one of the best in the series, and Red Daniels has become a notably popular character.
Unlike many protagonists in the "Call of Duty" franchise, Red's background and personal life are explored in depth, adding significant layers to his character. This development helps to heighten the stakes during the more intense moments of the campaign. Daniels is well-crafted, and his portrayal is both compelling and commendable. Despite his initial naivety, Red is deeply committed to his comrades, notably his close friend and mission partner, Zussman. The death of his brother Paul profoundly impacts him, fueling his resolve to persevere through the war and honor his memory. Red’s dedication to his team and willingness to sacrifice for his fellow soldiers and civilians—even as he anticipates becoming a father—adds depth to his character. His journey is marked by both personal and heroic struggle, making him a memorable and impactful figure in the game.
18.Jason Hudson
Agent Jason Hudson is a pivotal character in the "Call of Duty: Black Ops" series and also makes a secondary appearance in the "Call of Duty: Mobile" comics. As a CIA operative during the Cold War, Hudson was involved in numerous covert operations and became a crucial figure following Alex Mason's escape from the Vorkuta prison camp.
Hudson is a recurring character throughout the "Black Ops" series, first introduced as a stern CIA officer in the original game. He is perhaps best known for his iconic line, "Mason, what do the numbers mean?!", which has become a memorable part of his legacy.
19.MacMillan
Major General MacMillan, later known as "Baseplate," is a Scottish SAS officer who appears in "Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare" and "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3." He serves as the commander of Alpha Team and is prominently featured in the missions "All Ghillied Up" and "One Shot, One Kill," where he works alongside the then-Lieutenant John Price. By the time of "Modern Warfare 3," MacMillan has risen to the rank of commander of the British Special Forces. He is briefly mentioned in Hakan "Demir" Pala’s "Call of Duty: Mobile" comics.
In the "Modern Warfare" series, John Price is portrayed as a remarkable leader and mentor to younger protagonists. However, there was a time when Price was also a young operative learning from his superiors. Flashback missions in the games reveal Price’s formative experiences under the guidance of MacMillan.
MacMillan's role in these iconic "Call of Duty" missions has cemented him as a fan favorite. His blend of extraordinary tactical acumen and a universally gruff demeanor makes him a memorable character. Not only does he exhibit these qualities in the original "Modern Warfare," but he also returns as Baseplate in "Modern Warfare 3," maintaining his status as a key figure in the series.
20.Belov
Belov was a dedicated Red Army soldier loyal to Captain Viktor Reznov, tasked with the mission of capturing Fredrich Steiner in 1945. As part of this operation, Belov, along with his comrades Nevsky, Vikharev, and Petrenko, was ordered by Reznov to board an abandoned ship for a critical mission.
The team successfully reached the New Star gas chamber, but their mission took a dire turn when General Dragovich, eager to test the effectiveness of the weapon, ordered that Reznov's six men be locked inside the chamber for a gas test. Belov, along with Vikharev and Petrenko, was placed in the first room of the chamber. When the gas was released, Belov and his companions met a grim fate, succumbing to the lethal effects of the poison.
Belov's story is a poignant example of the sacrifices made by Reznov’s loyal soldiers, highlighting the brutal realities of war and the often tragic outcomes of such high-stakes missions.
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Part 2: How to Ensure Optimal COD Gaming?
In the world of "Call of Duty" (COD), a seamless gaming experience is crucial for achieving success and enjoying the thrill of combat. Lag, latency, and network issues can significantly impact gameplay, leading to frustration and a diminished overall experience. To ensure that your COD gaming is as smooth and immersive as possible, optimizing your network performance is essential. One effective solution to consider is LagoFast. LagoFast is a game booster designed to optimize network performance, and enhance your gaming experience by improving network efficiency.
How to use LagoFast Game Booster on PC
Step 1: Click the Free Trial button to download and install LagoFast Free Trial.
Step 2: Open the LagoFast client. On the main interface, Choose one of the COD games that you want to optimize your network for.
Step 3: Select the server you want to play on and click the "Boost" button
Step 4: After completing the above optimization operations and returning to the game, you will find that the game network has been enhanced and you can enjoy the game.
Conclusion
In our exploration of the best 20 characters in "Call of Duty" history, we celebrate the individuals who have become iconic figures within the franchise. These characters span across various titles, showcasing a range of personalities and roles.
In addition, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable COD gaming experience requires more than just skills and strategies; It also requires optimal network performance.
LagoFast Game Booster provides a powerful solution that enhances network connectivity, reduces latency, stabilizes performance, and improves overall gameplay. By integrating LagoFast into your game settings, you can enjoy a more immersive and competitive Call of Duty experience without being troubled by network issues.
Follow these 20 characters and experience the world of COD firsthand!
- ✅ Reduce Lag and High Ping.
✅ Boost FPS at the Same Time.
✅ Change Server Without Latency.
✅ Multiplatform: PC, Console, Mobile.
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