It’s National Pet Day, so we’re doing what anyone with a soft spot for furry (or pixelated) companions would do—thinking about our favourite animals in games instead of doing actual work.
Whether they helped us survive a tough boss fight, carried our loot without complaining, or just sat there being adorable, the best video game pets have made our adventures feel a little less lonely. They’ve barked, purred, roared, and glitched their way into our hearts—some for years, others from more recent games we didn’t expect to get so attached to.
To celebrate the occasion, we’ve ranked our top 10 favourite companions from across the gaming world. You’ll find familiar faces, emotional goodbyes, and a few paws you might’ve forgotten. And yes, we saved the best for last—because there’s no fun in giving it away up top.
Let’s start the countdown.
10. The Dog (Fable II)
The Dog in Fable II isn’t just some throwaway sidekick—it’s the emotional glue of the entire game. From the moment it bounds into your life, it’s with you every step of the way. It helps you find hidden treasure, grow your fortune, and fight off enemies. More than that, it just exists with you in a way that feels honest. It barks when something’s nearby, wags whenever you do good, and sulks when you’re not.
The real kicker, though, is how much it hurts to lose it. No matter what choices you made, that ending stayed with a lot of us. And it still does.
9. Chocobo (Final Fantasy)
There’s something oddly comforting about the Final Fantasy Chocobo. Maybe it’s the goofy run. Maybe it’s the music that kicks in when you ride one. Or maybe it’s just that, across so many games, this oversized bird is always ready to help out.
You’ve raced them, fed them, bred them, and probably gotten lost trying to catch one. But somehow, the Chocobo never feels like a throwaway ride. It’s a beloved video game pet that became a symbol of the series—practical, dependable, and, let’s be honest, way cuter than a horse.
Feathers and all, it earns its spot on this list.
8. 808 (Hi-Fi RUSH)
For a game that dropped out of nowhere, Hi-Fi RUSH quickly earned its spot in the conversation, and so did its adorable feline sidekick, 808. This little robo-cat might look unassuming, but it packs a lot of personality—and it somehow manages to head-bob along to every beat. Whenever you’re dashing, platforming, or jamming out to the game’s rhythm-based combat, 808 is right there, quietly doing cat stuff (but with LEDs).
It’s rare for a video game animal companion to feel so modern, blending classic “cute pet” energy with sleek sci-fi flair. 808 is playful without being overbearing, and the bond you form with it feels genuine—like you’re sharing this musical world together. If you ask us, this cat deserves an encore.
7. Rush (Mega Man)
If Dogmeat is the tough guard dog, Rush is the Swiss Army Knife of best gaming pets. Debuting in Mega Man 3, this bright-red robo-pup doubles as a pogo stick, submarine, and jet, all in the name of helping Mega Man reach new heights—literally. Sure, he’s technically a piece of gear, but there’s something about that wagging tail (even if it’s made of metal) that makes him feel like a real buddy.
Part of the charm is how Rush adds a splash of colour and companionship to an otherwise intense platformer. Fighting evil robots can be a lonely job, but with Rush at your side, it’s a little less daunting—and a lot more fun.
6. Trico (The Last Guardian)
Trico isn’t your typical sidekick. It’s a massive, feathered creature that feels equal parts majestic and vulnerable—a constant reminder that “pet” can mean many things in a video game world. Throughout The Last Guardian, you feed Trico, gain its trust, and rely on it to solve puzzles or traverse dizzying heights. Yet, despite its towering size, it often behaves like a curious (or scared) animal that just wants reassurance.
That’s the magic of Trico: it forces you to care not just about the gameplay, but about this living, breathing companion who needs you. It’s an unbreakable bond, one that definitely cements Trico’s place among the most iconic video game pets ever.
5. Pikachu (Pokémon)
Pikachu is that rare gaming mascot who actually lives up to the hype. From the moment it squeaked onto our screens, this electric mouse captured hearts worldwide—so much so that it’s become the face of an entire franchise. Whether you first met Pikachu in the original Pokémon Red/Blue or watched it in the anime by Ash Ketchum’s side, you probably felt that spark of excitement the first time it unleashed Thunder Shock.
Beyond the cuteness, though, Pikachu is a perfect reminder of why we love our favorite video game pets: loyalty, charm, and the power to bring people together. Its iconic “pika-pi” never gets old—and neither does that lightning tail.
4. Epona (The Legend of Zelda)
When it comes to horses in gaming, few are as legendary as Epona. First galloping into our hearts in Ocarina of Time, she quickly became more than just a mode of transportation. Summoning her with the iconic Epona’s Song felt like calling an old friend, someone you could trust to get you across Hyrule’s plains no matter how many Stalfos were lurking around.
Over the years, Epona has shown up in multiple Zelda titles, each time reminding us that Link’s heroic journey is never a solo act. There’s an unmistakable comfort in the clip-clop of her hooves as you ride off to face whatever boss fight lies ahead. After all, the best video game pets don’t just make your life easier—they make the whole experience feel richer and more alive. Epona absolutely embodies that timeless spirit.
3. Palico (Monster Hunter)
Palicos are more than just feline sidekicks—they’re your personal support crew in the Monster Hunter series. Armed with tiny weapons and an endless supply of cat puns, these clever kitties help gather materials, cook up stat-boosting meals, and even heal you when things get hairy. There’s a special thrill in watching a Palico scramble around in armor that somehow manages to look both intimidating and impossibly cute.
But the real beauty is how much personality each Palico has. From their determined meows to the way they cheer after a successful hunt, these video game animal companions feel like partners, not just pets. And that’s exactly why we love them.
2. Yoshi (Super Mario Bros.)
Yoshi is basically the definition of “ride or die”—literally. From the moment we hopped on its back in Super Mario World, this friendly green dinosaur became a staple of the Mushroom Kingdom. It’s not just about gobbling up enemies or hovering across big gaps. It’s the sheer joy of having this bright, quirky companion at your side.
Over the years, Yoshi’s starred in its own spinoffs and turned up in countless Mario games, each time bringing that signature tongue-grab move and the cutest little flutter jump. If we’re talking about favourite video game pets, Yoshi absolutely earns its spot—adorable, loyal, and always ready to help out when Mario’s in a pinch. It’s the perfect example of what a gaming pet should be.
1. Dogmeat (Fallout Series)
Dogmeat, from the Fallout series, is the ultimate ride-or-die companion—a scruffy, loyal pup in the wasteland who never judges your moral choices, even when everyone else does. Whether you’re scavenging for ammo or stumbling into yet another rad-infested vault, this dog is always there, trotting by your side without a hint of fear. It sniffs out danger, fetches gear, and looks up at you with those eyes that say, “I’ve got your back.”
In a brutal world where trust is hard to come by, Dogmeat provides something rare: genuine warmth. It’s more than a walking inventory extension—it’s a friend who reminds you that even in the bleakest scenarios, there’s room for a little wagging tail and hope. That’s why Dogmeat tops our list of the best video game pets and earns a permanent spot in our hearts.
One Last Wag of the Tail
So there you have it—our countdown of the best video game pets to celebrate National Pet Day. From robotic cats to trusty steeds and wasteland dogs, these companions do more than tag along: they make our digital adventures feel truly alive. Personally, I’ve got a real-life furball curled up at my feet, purring away as I type. It might not be battling dragons or digging up hidden treasure, but in its own little way, it’s the perfect co-op partner.
Now it’s your turn: Who’s your favourite in-game pet, and how do you plan to celebrate National Pet Day? Drop a comment below or share a screenshot of you and your virtual (or real) companion. After all, whether pixelated or covered in actual fur, a loyal friend is one of the best power-ups you can get.
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