The 20 Greatest Video Game Villains Ever Created

Villains That Make Worthy Foes

For many video games, it's safe to say the villains are what tie the whole thing together, turning boring games into masterpieces. They're the characters that drive the story, give you motivation to win, and add excitement to your adventure. The stronger the villain, the deeper your desire to take them down! We know you've got a bunch in mind, so let's see if we've nailed our list. Here are 20 of the greatest video game villains that helped build the backbone of the gaming world, providing us with the most amazing battles and the greatest triumphs.

1. Bowser from Super Mario Series

Is there any villain more memorable and recognizable than the King Koopa from the Super Mario series? With his green spiky shell, yellow skin, and crazy red hair, Bowser is beloved by gamers all around the world for his scary appearance and constant desire to make Mario's life miserable. He makes every game interesting and has proven again and again to be a tough boss to beat.

2. Ganondorf from The Legend of Zelda Series

If you've never heard of or played any of The Legend of Zelda games before, you must be living under a rock. One of Nintendo's greatest hits, gamers have been loving playing as Link for many decades, and most of that is thanks to his fierce opponent Ganondorf. His relentless pursuit for the Triforce is constantly in everyone's mind, coming back time and time again to be a thorn in our hero's side.

3. GLaDOS from Portal Series

Ever worry that robots might take over? Well in the popular game, Portal, the evil AI, GlaDOS, controls the world and gives you a taste of what that might be like. Though she might have some deadpan humor, her sinister intelligence is what you should really be scared of. She definitely knows how to keep players entertained with her intense tests and traps though.

4. The Joker from Batman: Arkham Series

Comics, movies, games, whatever form of media it is, the Joker always shines. Known as Batman's greatest arch nemesis, the Joker never fails to disappoint with his chaotic nature, clever schemes, and terrifying but memorable one-liners. And in the Batman: Arkham games, it gives players a villain worth fighting against.

5. Dr. Eggman from the Sonic Series

Does he look absolutely ridiculous? Yes. Is his name laughable? Yes. But despite Dr. Eggman's hilarious nature, this genius technological weirdo always has fans desperately wanting more opportunities to go up against him. As our favorite speedster Sonic's most iconic villain, this mustachioed antagonist is definitely one for the books given how many times he's found ways to ruin this hedgehog's day.

6. Ridley from the Metroid Series

You can never go wrong with an evil dragon, and Ridley from the popular Metroid series is a great example of that. Constantly terrorizing Samus, Ridley has no real pursuit other than to simply be a terrifying monster that will stop at nothing to end the protagonist. Sure makes it fun for the players!

7. Kefka Palazzo from the Final Fantasy Series

If you thought the Joker looked creepy, wait till you meet Kefka Palazzo from the Final Fantasy games. Giving off terrifying clown vibes, this brilliantly crafted villain is both powerful and apathetic, making him a true symbol of evil that's a challenge to go up against. Fans of the series have constantly praised him for making the game even more interesting than it already is. 

8. Arthas Menethil from the Warcraft Series

Once the former prince of Lordaeron, Arthas Menethil is an example of what happens when you become corrupted. Transforming into the Lich King, he completely shed himself of nobility and committed unjustified horrible deeds that showed his true inner evil self.

9. Vaas Montenegro from the Far Cry Series

With an intimidating name to match, Vaas Montnegro is the main antagonist of Far Cry 3. Well-received by fans for his menacing nature and pushing players towards embracing the monster within, his spooky monologues and intense personality made him an interesting villain worth remembering.

10. Dracula from the Castlevania Series

Dracula has been a terrifying monster across many different mediums for years, and when it came to Castlevania, they didn't disappoint. Powerful, fearless, and yet complex with twinges of sympathy, this vampire god has fans hooked.

11. Albert Wesker from the Resident Evil Series

Albert Wesker might not sound like the coolest name, but when you see this fan favorite villain in game for the first time, you'll immediately take it back. Best known for his sleek shades and black outfit, his role working for the controversial Umbrella Corporation made him a ruthless antagonist set on making every player's experience intense and challenging. 

12. Handsome Jack from Borderlands Series

Given that his name is Handsome Jack, you probably wouldn't find it hard to believe he's an incredibly narcissistic villain. Borderlands is an incredibly popular video game series, meaning of course it has a brilliant antagonist to back it. With Handsome Jack's interesting backstory, convoluted beliefs, and ruthless behavior, he certainly lives up to expectations.

13. Liquid Snake from the Metal Gear Solid Series

A unique villain with sophisticated intellect, military prowess, and an intense grudge, Liquid Snake is the cloned brother of the main character. Right off the bat, this provides the series with an interesting storyline that hooks players in and gets them invested in winning the battle. 

14. Dr. Neo Cortex from the Crash Bandicoot Series

Dr. Neo Cortex might not look like much of threat, but beyond his nerdy appearance and the massive N marked on his forehead, his relentless desire for world domination might make you take a second glance. Fans love him for the challenges he brings to the table, with his comedic sarcasm making him a memorable villain for all Crash Bandicoot games.

15. Micah Bell from the Red Dead Redemption Series

Known for being a no good, lying, and disloyal jerk, Micah Bell might be the last person you want to be friends with. As the main antagonist for the iconic Red Dead Redemption 2, his ability to consistently manipulate those around him make him a truly evil but brilliantly written character. 

16. Andrew Ryan from the BioShock Series

Sometimes villains aren't easy to read, as shown with Andrew Ryan from the acclaimed BioShock series. As the secondary antagonist, he definitely makes his presence known with his extremist ideas. You can't deny he's complex though, helping players become more intrigued with what they're up against.

17. Baldur from the God of War Series

Baldur is a unique antagonist in that his first appearance comes unexpectedly and completely changes the game-play of previous adventures. He's quite a deep character thanks to the amazing voice actor who brings out the nuances in the characters issues.

18. The Illusive Man from the Mass Effect Series

Voiced by Martin Sheen, the Illusive Man is a complicated villain. He's best known for his sleek, silver hair and intense blue eyes that look directly into your soul. While he might not look menacing, it's what he represents that leaves you shivering. There's something terrifying about villains who genuinely believe they're doing the right thing.

19. Queen of Blades from the StarCraft Series

With her intimidating, fearsome appearance, the Queen of Blades is what the once Sarah Kerrigan transformed into after being captured by Zerg. She's been repeatedly praised for her character depth, being a tragic yet brutal antagonist who drives the story along incredibly well. 

20. Makarov from the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Series

As someone who has committed too many unspeakable things, Makarov is solidified as a ruthless yet highly strategic villain who shows no sign of remorse. His unfeeling nature makes him quite the evil individual, with his actions sparking a world war within the series.