Episode 280: Gentle Giants and Brick Outhouses - the Tank Character in Speculative Fiction

The ranger, maverick, thief, healer and wizard are all well known, easily recognisable archetypes in a basic fantasy or sci-fi team. We're all familiar with the leader, the loner, the brains and the heart in a team-up. But there's one character who just doesn't get as much attention despite often literally holding a group together. This week, the dragons take a look at the 'tank', muscle or powerpack character. What exactly do they add to a team in sff? What storylines exploit their skill set best and how can you avoid over powering them? 

On the slab this week: The Justice League, Firefly, Farscape, The Avengers and many more.

 

Title music: Ecstasy by Smiling Cynic