NPCs Who Clearly Had a Sense of Humor

3 August 2025

Let’s be real — not every NPC (Non-Playable Character) in video games is a grim-faced quest-giver or a lore-dumping machine. Some of them, believe it or not, are the real MVPs of comic relief. Whether it's through snarky one-liners, pun-filled dialogue, or just plain weird behavior, humorous NPCs add a whole layer of flavor that keeps us smiling long after the controller’s been set down.

It’s easy to get lost in vast open worlds, heavy storylines, and heart-thumping boss fights. But every now and then, a quirky character pops up, cracks a joke, or does something ridiculous — and suddenly you’re laughing like you just heard the best meme of the year. These NPCs, with their unexpected wit and unfiltered humor, are what transform a good game into a great one.

In this article, we’re shining a light on those unforgettable, funny-as-heck NPCs who had no business being that hilarious — but we’re dang glad they were.

Why Humor in NPCs Matters

Before we dive into our list of laugh-out-loud NPCs, let’s pause for a second and think: why do we even care if an NPC is funny?

Video games can be intense. One moment you're saving the world, and the next you're knee-deep in a morally ambiguous storyline that makes your head spin. Funny NPCs break up that tension. They’re like a cold drink on a hot day — refreshing, unexpected, and just what you needed. Humor makes the game world feel more human. It reminds us that not everything needs to be taken seriously.

Plus, let’s be honest — a well-placed joke in the middle of a zombie apocalypse? Priceless.

1. Sheogorath – The Mad God of Cheese (Elder Scrolls Series)

Alright, we can’t talk about funny NPCs without bringing Sheogorath into the spotlight. This Daedric Prince of Madness from the Elder Scrolls series is probably the poster child for chaotic hilarity.

Picture this: a god who loves cheese, speaks in riddles, and will casually talk about turning people into sweetrolls. He’s whimsical, totally unpredictable, and frankly a little scary. But man, is he entertaining. Every single interaction with Sheogorath feels like talking to a hilarious lunatic who’s just had way too much caffeine — and we’re totally here for it.

> “Cheese for everyone! Wait... scratch that. Cheese for no one. That can be just as much of a celebration if you don’t like cheese.”

Need we say more?

2. Claptrap – Borderlands Series

Claptrap is one of those NPCs that you either adore or want to throw off a cliff — but either way, you’re laughing. He’s a hyperactive, overly dramatic robot with a knack for getting into ridiculous situations…and dragging you along for the ride.

His dialogue is filled with sarcastic comments, self-deprecating humor, and moments where you just can’t help but think, “Did he really just say that?”

Despite being annoying (intentionally, mind you), Claptrap brings a lot of personality to the chaotic world of Borderlands. He’s a reminder that even in a lawless wasteland, there's still room for belly laughs and bad dancing.

3. GLaDOS – Portal Series

Now, GLaDOS isn’t your typical funny NPC. She's a sadistic, passive-aggressive AI with a dry sense of humor — and honestly, one of the best-written characters in gaming. Beneath her chilling voice lies a well of savage burns and deadpan wit that’ll leave you wide-eyed and laughing nervously.

She’ll test you, insult you, and question your intelligence — all while keeping her voice as calm as a yoga instructor. And it’s in that contrast where the humor lies.

Remember when she said, “The cake is a lie”? That meme didn’t just pop out of nowhere. GLaDOS is the queen of sarcastic shade, and we’re low-key obsessed with her brand of humor.

4. M’aiq the Liar – Elder Scrolls Series

Another Elder Scrolls regular, M’aiq the Liar is that one khajiit who shows up in every game, drops some cryptic, fourth-wall-breaking nonsense, and struts away like he didn’t just blow your mind.

His comments often poke fun at the game itself, the developers, or even the players. He’s basically the in-game embodiment of a Reddit troll — but much cuter and far more polite.

> “M’aiq believes the children are our future. But he also believes in ghosts. So, you know... take it as you will.”

He's weird, he's wonderful, and he makes you question everything. That’s comedy gold.

5. HK-47 – Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic

An assassin droid with a twisted sense of humor? Yep, that’s HK-47. He’s cold, calculating, and uses the word “meatbag” to refer to humans — which honestly, should be an insult more of us use.

His humor is dark, sarcastic, and absolutely savage. He’ll casually talk about murdering people with the same tone you'd use to describe baking cookies. It’s jarring…and hilarious.

HK-47’s brand of humor isn’t for everyone, but if you’re into that “murderous robot with sass” vibe, he’s your guy.

6. Handsome Jack – Borderlands 2

We’re back in the Borderlands universe because let’s face it, some of the funniest NPCs live there. Handsome Jack is the kind of villain who constantly breaks the "evil bad guy" mold by being ridiculously entertaining.

He’s evil, yes, but he’s also sarcastic, petty, and disturbingly relatable at times. Some of his rants are so over-the-top, you can’t help but laugh — even when he’s threatening to vaporize you.

> “I’m the good guy, you’re the bandits! You’re the bad guys!”

He’s like a corporate CEO on a caffeine bender, and honestly? He’s one of the most iconic antagonists because of his humor.

7. Stan – Monkey Island Series

If you've played any of the Monkey Island games, you know Stan. He’s the fast-talking, arm-flailing salesman who somehow shows up everywhere, always trying to sell you something you definitely don’t need.

Stan’s exaggerated speech and comically desperate sales tactics make him one of gaming’s most beloved comedic characters. He’s basically the NPC version of an infomercial host dialed up to eleven — and we mean that in the best way possible.

Retro charm + slapstick humor = unforgettable NPC.

8. The Nameless NPCs of Skyrim

Skyrim is full of unexpected giggles. Whether it’s the guard who got shot in the knee (you know the one) or the random citizens with sassy comebacks, the game is littered with NPCs who have no business being this funny.

It’s the little things — a vendor muttering under their breath, a farmer making sheep puns, or a bandit yelling something absurd before attacking. These tiny moments of humor add so much charm and make the world feel truly alive.

9. Wheatley – Portal 2

Voiced by Stephen Merchant, Wheatley is the lovable, bumbling AI who somehow manages to be both helpful and a total liability. His awkward one-liners, self-doubt, and constant blabbering make for some of the best comic relief in Portal 2.

He has this “trying way too hard to be cool” energy that’s honestly endearing. Even when he’s messing things up (which is...often), you can’t be mad at him — because he’s probably making you laugh while doing it.

10. Dandelion (Jaskier) – The Witcher Series

The bard with the beautiful voice and a mouth that just won’t quit — that’s Dandelion (or Jaskier, if you’re a Netflix fan). He brings charm, wit, and the kind of humor that balances out Geralt’s serious grunts.

Whether he’s composing songs about your deeds or charming his way out of trouble (again), Dandelion’s humor adds warmth to the dark, gritty world of The Witcher.

He's proof that even monster-hunters need a funny friend to lighten the mood.

So, Why Do We Love These NPCs?

Humor makes these digital worlds feel more alive. These NPCs may not be at the center of the story, but they steal the show with their quirky personalities and hilarious antics. They’re the kind of characters that make you pause your mission, just to hear what ridiculous thing they’ll say next.

They’re more than just background noise — they’re the personality, the spark, the comic timing that keeps us coming back for more.

Final Thoughts

Funny NPCs are the unsung heroes of gaming. They don’t always have epic arcs or crucial roles, but they sure know how to make an impression. They break the mold, surprise us with their wit, and remind us not to take things too seriously — even when we’re in the middle of slaying dragons or surviving alien invasions.

So next time you come across a hilariously weird character in a game, take a moment to appreciate their humor. Because behind that pixelated face might just be the comic genius your adventure needed.