• Comment: Character articles as separate from their works seem to be getting a lot of scrutiny on WP:VG as many can fall short of the general notability guideline despite having a lot of citations. It can be an unclear area as there isn't a bunch of guidance, but I think this falls fairly clearly short - the sourcing really isn't primarily about Ralsei (i.e. just a review of the game), and whilst there is some coverage and discussion of the character as separate from the work, at four secondary citations, this doesn't really reflect the breadth and depth of coverage needed. This is a good start, and I would like to think given the scope of the Deltarune fandom that there is much more out there! VRXCES (talk) 05:11, 16 September 2025 (UTC)


Ralsei
Deltarune character
File:Ralsei by SirLossOfRespect.png
Fan art depiction of Ralsei
First gameDeltarune (Chapter 1, 2018)
Created byToby Fox
Designed byToby Fox
Temmie Chang
In-universe information
SpeciesDarkner
Goat
GenderMale
OccupationPrince
WeaponScarf
HomeCastle Town

Ralsei (/ˈrɔːls, ˈræl-/; RAWL-say, RAL-) is a fictional character from Toby Fox's episodic role-playing video game, Deltarune. The "Prince of the Dark," he is a Darkner who joins protagonists Kris and Susie to seal Dark Fountains per an ancient prophecy. Portrayed as a compassionate healer and moral guide, Ralsei contrasts Susie's brashness, but later chapters reveal his insecurities and potential secrets, including resemblances to Kris's brother, Asriel. Critics praise his depth, from charming innocence to tragic undertones.[1][2]

Appearances

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Ralsei is a goat-like Darkner who resides in Castle Town, where he awaits the arrival of the heroes foretold by prophecy. When Kris and Susie first encounter him, he welcomes them enthusiastically and explains their role in sealing the Dark Fountains, but not completely or thoroughly. He provides guidance, healing, and moral support throughout their journey.

Critics have described Ralsei as compassionate, kind, and selfless, often serving as a counterbalance to Susie’s aggression and Kris’s reserved demeanor.[3]

In Chapter 1, he introduces the party to the prophecy and accompanies them in sealing their first Fountain, removing his hat at the Chapter’s conclusion to reveal his true appearance. In Chapter 2, following the second battle against Queen, he warns Kris and Susie of the dangers of opening multiple Fountains, which could trigger the "Roaring", an apocalyptic event that would threaten all Darkners and Lightners.

In Chapters 3 and 4, Ralsei continues to travel with Kris and Susie through new Dark Worlds, offering both strategic support in battle and moral guidance as they confront threats tied to the Roaring Knight, the main antagonist in the game. It is also revealed in Chapter 4 that Ralsei's room is mostly empty, because he feels that his purpose is just to serve Lightners.

Concept and creation

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Ralsei was created by Toby Fox for Deltarune. Concept art dates back to 2014–2015, with Temmie Chang contributing additional design work. The idea of revealing Ralsei without his hat was a later concept refinement.[4]

Promotion and reception

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Ralsei has been positively received by critics and fans. IGN described Deltarune as “something incredible,” noting the appeal and emotional depth of characters including Ralsei.[3] GameSpot praised the dynamic between Ralsei and the other protagonists, highlighting his role as a moral and tactical guide.[5]

Writers at TheGamer and RPGFan recognized Ralsei in discussions of positive LGBTQ+ representation, noting his compassion and role in a party that challenges traditional gender norms.[6][7]

References

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  1. ^ "Deltarune Review | Nintendo Insider". July 17, 2025. Retrieved December 28, 2025.
  2. ^ "Deltarune review — Chapters 3 and 4 finally arrive". GamingTrend. June 17, 2025. Retrieved December 28, 2025.
  3. ^ a b Graeber, Brendan (June 10, 2025). "Deltarune Review". IGN. Retrieved September 12, 2025.
  4. ^ Fox, Toby [@tobyfox] (November 16, 2018). "The idea of Ralsei ever looking different was actually fairly recent. Same with abandoning Susie's ponytail. (And making her look tough...)" (Tweet) – via Twitter.
  5. ^ Kemps, Heidi (December 21, 2021). "Best Of 2021: How Deltarune Chapter 2 Portrays A Disturbingly Dark Relationship". GameSpot. Retrieved September 12, 2025.
  6. ^ Go, Sachi (June 26, 2024). "Best LGBTQ+ Characters In Video Games". TheGamer. Retrieved September 12, 2025.
  7. ^ Sybydlo, Stephanie (June 28, 2021). "Pride & Progress: Celebrating LGBTQIA+ Representation in RPGs". RPGFan. Retrieved September 12, 2025.