Some of the SVGL regulars might remember my "Building a Better RPG" series that I started over here with Part I, which dealt with challenges in drawing believable lives for RPG characters. What I've just finished over at Destructoid now is, I guess, part I-B, as it still deals with characters-- only now, we're talking believable character deaths. I include a little top-five of my favorite character deaths, so if you check it out, be aware there're spoilers, albeit none particularly recent.
Though, really, with the list I picked-- if you didn't know they died, what kinda gamer are you? Go play Madden or someshit.
I'll be continuing the series as Destructoid features, but I'll keep you guys here posted in case you're interested in it.
[Image is clipped from fanart by ~DBkun.)