Arcane: A Masterpiece in Character Development
Arcane is widely considered one of the greatest TV adaptations of a video game series, and for good reason. The show’s intricate character development, especially of its main cast, has received unanimous praise from fans and critics alike. However, it’s not just the central figures who have left a lasting impression. Even the minor characters have managed to shine in the limited screen time they were given. This has sparked a discussion among fans about which side characters could have benefited from more time in the spotlight. On the Arcane subreddit, users were asked to pick from a list of potential candidates: Lest, Rictus, Maddie, or Loris. The discussion was lively, with many insightful comments, but one character emerged as the clear favorite.
Loris: The Underrated Hero
Of the four characters put up for consideration, Loris, the Piltover enforcer, received the most votes. Many fans expressed their belief that Loris was intended for a more prominent role, especially given his significant presence in Vi’s ring-fighter era in Season Two. His noble sacrifice in the final battle of Arcane, where he bravely fights to protect the city and its people, further cemented his status as a memorable character. Before his death, Loris was shown training the Zaunites in combat, helping to build the resistance against Ambessa’s forces. Despite his limited screen time, his heroic actions and unwavering dedication to justice made him a fan favorite. As one user commented, “Loris, without a doubt. He wasn’t REALLY a character at all. We don’t know who he is or what his deal is, even though he is likeable, in spite of that. Which is actually a nod to gifted writing, in a way, but he deserved more time.” Loris’s presence, though brief, was impactful, and fans are eager to learn more about his backstory and motivations.
Lest: The Mysterious Vastayan
The second most popular choice among fans was Lest, the Vastayan with a cat-like appearance. Lest’s interactions with Mel, particularly her cautious yet helpful demeanor, have left viewers wanting more. Her sly and careful nature, combined with her eventual assistance in uncovering Ambessa’s nefarious plans, make her a compelling character. Season Two’s end has seen Lest becoming an increasingly popular side character, but her background remains largely a mystery. Fans are curious about her origins, her motives, and how she fits into the larger narrative of Arcane. The show’s writers have hinted at a deeper story for Lest, but more screen time could have provided a richer understanding of her character and her place in the world of Piltover and Zaun.
Maddie: The Noxian Enigma
Maddie, the character whose betrayal elicited a strong negative reaction from viewers, came in third place. Her actions, which contributed significantly to the storyline’s tension, have left many fans wondering about her background and motivations. Amanda Overton, one of the show’s writers, confirmed after the series ended that Maddie is from Noxus, suggesting she was a Noxian plant from the outset. However, without this additional information, her decisions in the show can feel somewhat shallow. Questions abound: How long had Maddie been in Piltover before the events of Arcane? How often did she communicate with Ambessa? These elements, if explored, could have added layers to her character, making her betrayal more poignant and her role in the story more nuanced. Many fans argue that Maddie’s storyline, with more screen time, could have been a fascinating exploration of loyalty and deception.
Rictus: The Laudable Detective
Rictus, the dedicated and honorable detective of Piltover, received the fewest votes in the poll. While his character was well-developed in the moments he appeared, his storyline was less central to the main narrative. Rictus’s unwavering commitment to justice and his complex relationship with Jayce and Vi added depth to the show, but his role was more supporting than leading. Despite this, some fans still felt that Rictus deserved more screen time to explore his own journey and challenges. His interactions with the main characters, particularly his mentorship of Jayce, were highly praised, and more scenes featuring him could have provided a broader perspective on the political and social dynamics of Piltover.
The Impact of Minor Characters
The success of minor characters like Loris, Lest, Maddie, and Rictus in Arcane highlights the show’s exceptional storytelling and world-building. Each of these characters, despite their limited screen time, managed to leave a lasting impression on the audience. Loris’s heroism, Lest’s mystery, Maddie’s betrayal, and Rictus’s integrity all contributed to the rich tapestry of the series. Their presence added depth and complexity to the narrative, making the world of Arcane feel more vibrant and alive. The fact that fans are so invested in these characters speaks volumes about the quality of the writing and the effectiveness of the performances.
Conclusion
In the end, the poll on the Arcane subreddit reveals a deep appreciation for the show’s side characters. Loris, with his heroic sacrifice and dedication to justice, topped the list, followed by the enigmatic Lest and the betrayed Maddie. Even Rictus, whose honor and mentorship added to the show’s moral landscape, received recognition. The community’s enthusiasm for these characters underscores the show’s ability to create memorable and impactful figures, even in the periphery. As Arcane continues to evolve, fans remain hopeful that these beloved minor characters will receive the attention and development they deserve, enriching the series and further cementing its place in gaming and TV history.
