DS2 Ellie is one of the coolest female characters i've seen in vidya. She has the same energy as good female action leads from the classic movies, and intense "GF who has your back in a bar fight" energy with Isaac. Capable but not overpowered, tough but not entirely fearless, surpasses all your expectations, and rushes to save you with guns blazing.
This is such an insane rarity nowadays.