Main character of the "Dresden Files" book series, Harry Dresden utilizes his skills as a wizard to work as a detective. His brave, yet bone-headed, actions often save the day (causing plenty of destruction along the way).

The most famous of all wizards, he served King Arthur of Camelot.

A wizard of Middle-earth, Gandalf was a primary figure in the fight against Sauron.

The most powerful mage in the present day time of the Warhammer Fantasy universe, this High Elf has repeatedly involved himself in the fight against chaos.

Twin brother of Caramon Majere, Raistlin is an accomplished mage. His drive for power was so great, he fought against the goddess Takhisis in his own attempt to be a god (would have won too if his brother didn't interfere).

Zedd is a Wizard of the 1st order, responsible for naming Richard Rahl the Seeker of Truth.

This turtle wizard, in an attempt to acquire the aid of an engineer of our world, summoned the college student Jon-Tom into his world instead. Jon-Tom's mind had been easy to reach at the time(he was high), but unfortunately, he was only a sanitation engineer (garbage man).

Of interesting note, the turtle wizard has shelves built into his very chest, so that he can quickly find items that he needs.

From the series, "Spellsinger".

Ruler of the Land of Oz, his real name is Oscar Zoroaster Phadrig Isaac Norman Henkel Emmannuel Ambroise Diggs. He uses elaborate tricks to confuse people into thinking he can actually use magic.

From the video game, Saga Frontier.

Blue is tasked by his homeland to master the various magics of the world. Ultimately, he is commanded to duel his twin brother to the death. What he does not know, is that he and his twin brother were one person split in two. Whomever is defeated will merge with the other, creating the ultimate mage.

When this event occurs, the winner is then sent to the Hell to prevent the demons from getting loose. Unfortunately, Blue is once again left in the dark. His homeland never expects Blue to win this fight, and use him as a distraction to seal the portal between Earth and Hell. Ultimately, Blue is trapped with the demons for eternity.

A druid in the Shannara Trilogy, Allanon typically appears in times of great trouble to fight the coming evil. However, he often hides and manipulates the truth to achieve results.

A powerful sorceress sought after by Willow to fight against the evil queen, Bavmorda.

Harry Potter became famous in the wizarding world as "The Boy who lived", due to surviving an attack against the dark wizard Voldemort. Ultimately, that event ties the two together, forcing them to come into conflict.

A chosen of Mystra,Elminster's origins are of royalty. However, his family was killed when he was at an early age, and he grew up as a burglar. The Goddess of Magic, Mystra, had other plans for Elminster, and changed his course for greater destiny.