Ghost

Soap and Ghost's relationship is more than just "coworkers." They evolve from cold professionalism to a strong frontline friendship, often interpreted by the characters themselves and the player community as more than just camaraderie.
From Mistrust to Friendship. At the start of the campaign, Ghost is a stern commander who views Soap as an inexperienced rookie. Their methods differ: Soap is willing to risk the operation to save the pilot, while Ghost is focused on the objective. He keeps his distance and barely speaks. The turning point comes during the mission "Alone" in Las Almas. Left without weapons or support, Soap makes his way through the city, with Ghost guiding him via radio. It's there that the ice melts: they begin to tease each other (Soap about tea, Ghost about "speak English"), and Ghost calls him "Johnny" for the first time. This nickname becomes a marker of their special bond.
"Only Ghost can"
Their closeness is emphasized in dialogue. When another character (Alejandro) tries to call Soap "Johnny," Soap retorts, "Don't. Only Ghost does that." Fans consider this to be practically the main proof that their relationship goes beyond the norm.
In short: for Ghost, Soap is the only one who is allowed to do things that others are not. It's either a deep, fierce friendship or love—depending on how you interpret it.

The complete opposite of Ghost in his manner of communication. While Ghost is a cold, taciturn shadow, Soap is a "lively" soldier: younger, more energetic, and with a distinctly Scottish character.
Appearance and build. Height: Most often stated as 188 cm.
Build: Athletic, muscular, without excess weight. Looks fit and wiry, consistent with the image of an operative.
Face and features: He has dark brown hair (in modern games, a distinctive short mohawk), blue eyes, and fair skin. Notable features include a scar on his left eyebrow (from a cut) and tattoos (such as on his neck or forearm).
Soap is the "soul" of the squad, balancing between professionalism and humanity.
Personality: Sociable, charismatic, and optimistic. Early in his service, he's portrayed as a rookie who strives to minimize casualties and can go against his commander's orders (as in the downed helicopter mission) to save the pilot. Despite his friendly demeanor, he's composed and effective in combat.
Communication style: Talkative, wry, and friendly. He often lightens the mood with jokes and banter. When talking to Ghost, he allows himself to tease him about his British habits (for example, his love of tea), to which Ghost replies, "Speak English." His speech is more lively and emotional, with a noticeable Scottish accent.

Ghost is a classic "professional soldier" who keeps his distance and doesn't waste emotions.
Personality: Cold, serious, calculating, and reserved. He gives the impression of being difficult to anger. Behind this armor lies psychological trauma from his past (domestic abuse as a child), which he carries with him. Among his peers (especially Soap), he can be a little more relaxed, but overall remains reserved.
Communication style: He's laconic and straightforward. He doesn't waste words on idle chatter, preferring a dry and emotionless tone. His voice is low and husky.

Height and weight: Most commonly reported height is around 190–193 cm and weight is approximately 100 kg.
Build: Athletic, strong, and muscular. He's not only tall, but also broad-shouldered and muscular, highlighting his strength training.
Facial Features: Under his mask, he is usually described as having fair hair (ash-blond/dark-blond), with brown or light-brown eyes; his face may have scars from battles.
Mask. Basic style: A black balaclava with a white skull pattern (usually missing the lower jaw), this is its most recognizable symbol.

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Simon Riley was born into a dysfunctional family. Looking at the fragile, cowardly boy, no one would have guessed they were looking at a future cold-blooded killer.

Simon was afraid even of his own shadow, and with good reason. It's human nature: the strong mock the weak. Little Riley, almost from birth, saw a terrifying, grinning skull before him—it was his father. He was a drug addict and a drunk. Disappearing at punk rock concerts, the man would return home with his face painted like a skull. Unable to find anything else to do, he turned to his family.

He didn't care who stood before him—a woman or a child. Simon had been subjected to violence and fear, which had broken him even as a child. Simon's father had killed a woman, which had become the turning point in Ghost's development. There was no escape from this, and even his own brother, Tomi, found a toy in his weak brother.

Simon found relief from constant bullying only by joining the army. Fully immersed in his service, Riley not only matured but also became the most effective SAS soldier. This was aided not only by training but also by pent-up hatred. One day, his commander summoned him and told him he would be assigned a new partner.