Greatest Fantasy / Sci-Fi Sidekicks of All Time
R2-D2 or Dr. John Watson
Pick Your Favorite
VS
Your GOAT List
Why This Battle Matters
Who truly holds the fort in the shadow of giants? In one corner, the beeping heart of the Rebellion, R2-D2; in the other, the steadfast chronicler of Sherlock's sagas, Dr. John Watson. This isn't just a battle between beeps and bullet points; it's a duel for the spirit of every story ever told from the sidelines. Cultural dominance is at stake here, defining who we celebrate as the ultimate support in our favorite tales. Will you champion the silent resilience of an astromech droid or the eloquent loyalty of a Victorian doctor? Your pick might just reveal your own narrative leanings — are you for the heroic support or the supportive hero?
🔥 Fan Takes
How Fans Are Voting
In this battle:
Fans currently prefer R2-D2 over Dr. John Watson when it comes to the greatest Fantasy / Sci-Fi Sidekicks of all time. In head-to-head matchups, fans pick R2-D2 80.0% of the time over Dr. John Watson.
Across all battles:
R2-D2 win rate: 64.9%
Dr. John Watson win rate: 45.9%
Fan FAQs
Why is this matchup between R2-D2 and Dr. John Watson in the Greatest Fantasy/Sci-Fi Sidekicks league such a big debate?
This matchup fires up fans because it pits a beloved mechanical hero against a classic literary sidekick. Each represents a fundamentally different approach to the sidekick role—one through silent, comedic heroics, and the other through intellectual companionship and narrative contribution.
What makes Dr. John Watson so popular, even if he's trailing in this round?
Watson's popularity stems from his relatable human qualities and his steadfast loyalty to Sherlock Holmes. Fans appreciate his intelligence, moral integrity, and the crucial role he plays as Holmes’ confidant and chronicler. He's a classic character who brings a touch of humanity to his adventures.
Why is R2-D2 winning by such a large margin against Dr. John Watson in the Greatest Fantasy/Sci-Fi Sidekicks league?
R2-D2's lead is huge mainly because of his universal appeal and iconic status in the 'Star Wars' universe. Fans resonate with his plucky courage and the way he's played pivotal roles in galaxy-changing events without ever saying a word. Plus, his beeps are way more famous than most dialogues!