A girl known as a Half-Genie, born to a genie mother and a human father. She can transform into animals using magic through dance. She can also use her hair like a whip to attack. She is characterized by her long purple ponytail, tanned skin, and elf-like ears. She wears a bikini top. Her personality is spirited and cheerful. She has a very strong sense of justice and responsibility as the town's Guardian.

A female pirate and Shantae's long-time rival. She has blue skin, purple hair, and red eyes. Despite her distinctive skin tone, she is said to be human. Her hair is actually long, though it's usually tucked inside her pirate hat. As for her personality, she is an ambitious woman who boasts that the seven seas belong to her and has an insatiable hunger for treasure and military power. She proudly proclaims herself a villain, choosing any means necessary and showing no mercy to those who stand in her way.

A Relic Hunter living in Scuttle Town. He is Shantae's adoptive uncle and the one who raised her. He is also a skilled engineer who builds out-of-place artifacts like steam engines and generators based on blueprints found in ruins. He supports Shantae by developing various machines.

A female warbird trainer living in Scuttle Town and Shantae's friend. She is more mature than Shantae. She keeps a beloved bird named Wrench, who is her loyal partner. She has a frank, big-sisterly personality. She often speaks her mind without pretense or hesitation. She also possesses the kindness to work tirelessly for her friends and allies whenever something happens.

A man and a friend of the protagonist, Shantae. Unlike others from his hometown, he has no steady job and works various part-time gigs. He is characterized by his messy blue hair and yellow bandana. In combat, he uses a spiked iron ball and chain, or morning star. He generally goes at his own pace. He has a self-deprecating side, often comparing himself to the flashy successes of those around him and making sulky remarks. He is also quite the womanizer.