Tali can also be a main character in these fanfictions. Her engineering skills could be vital in trying to find a technological solution to the time loop problem. Plus, her loyalty to Shepard and her people's unique perspective on the universe could add interesting layers to the story.
Liara is another character that frequently shows up. Her knowledge of Prothean technology and history might be crucial in understanding and potentially stopping the time loop. She could be using her skills as a scientist and her connection to Shepard to figure out what's going on.
In most 'time loop Harry Potter fanfiction', Harry is front and center. His character development within the loop is usually the focus. But Hermione is a key figure too. She could be the one to discover the magical theory behind the time loop. For example, she might find a long - forgotten spell or potion that could be related to time manipulation. Ron, although sometimes overshadowed by Harry and Hermione, can bring in the element of friendship and loyalty. In some cases, characters from the Death Eaters side like Bellatrix Lestrange might be involved if the time loop is related to a major battle or a plot against Voldemort. Their presence can add more danger and complexity to the story.
It really depends on the source material. For example, if it's based on a superhero franchise, it could be the main superhero like Superman or Batman. If it's a fantasy - based one, perhaps a wizard or a chosen hero from the original work. There's no one - size - fits - all answer as different fanfictions can be based on different universes and thus feature different popular characters.
Sansa Stark is frequently in these fanfictions. As someone who was a victim of Joffrey's cruelty, if he is in a time loop, Sansa might find herself in a different situation each time. Maybe in one loop Joffrey starts to treat her better, which would completely change her perspective and her own actions within the story. Also, Cersei Lannister could be involved. As Joffrey's mother, she would be very concerned about any changes in her son during the time loop and might try to interfere to keep things as she wants them.
Naruto could be often involved. Since he's Kakashi's student, he might be part of the events that keep repeating in the time loop. Kakashi could be trying to protect Naruto in different ways each time the loop occurs.
Another concept is how the time loop affects the overall lore of the 'Mass Effect' series. It might introduce new elements to the existing canon, such as a previously unknown force causing the loop. This could potentially rewrite some of the established rules about time and space in the 'Mass Effect' universe.
Shepard is often a central character in Mass Effect harem fanfiction. Given their role as a hero in the main games, it's easy to imagine them in a harem situation. Liara is also very popular. Her connection with Shepard in the original story and her asari abilities make her an interesting addition to any harem. Garrus is another one. His loyalty and unique turian characteristics can add a lot to the harem dynamic.
Aria T'Loak is a character that often shows up. She is a powerful and shrewd leader in the 'Mass Effect' universe, and her leadership style and influence can be a great addition to empire - building stories. And then there's Javik, the last Prothean. His knowledge of ancient civilizations and advanced technology can bring a unique perspective to the empire - building process.
Garrus Vakarian might also be a common character. His relationship with Tali in the original games means that in a crossover, their dynamic can be explored further. He could be involved in protecting Tali or working with her in a new situation that the crossover creates.
Well, Naruto is the top one. As the Jinchuriki of the Kyuubi, he's at the center of it all. But don't forget about Jiraiya. He has a huge influence on Naruto and his past self could be a key factor in any time travel plot. And then there's Hinata. Her relationship with Naruto could be explored in new ways if time travel is involved. For example, she could help Naruto in the past in ways she didn't before, adding a new dimension to their relationship.
In 'ff8 time travel fanfiction', Zell could also be a main character involved. His energetic and impulsive nature might lead him to accidentally stumble into a time - travel situation. He could then use his fighting skills in different time periods, creating interesting storylines. Laguna Loire might be involved too. Since he has his own mysterious past and connection to Squall, time travel could be used to further explore those relationships and his role in the overall ff8 lore.