THE way we play games has changed drastically over the last five years.
Whereas we used to be content with a games console or computer (which at best we could play with three or four of our mates), now we can connect with thousands of other gamers online, based anywhere in the world. The move towards Internet-based gaming can be clearly seen in the world of gambling; we are no longer restricted to playing slot games, for example, in physical form, now we can play slots and other casino games online from the comfort of our own homes.
So, with this change in the way we play games in mind; let’s take a look over some of the best computer game villains of all time. We all love a villain, the more evil and dangerous the better (and, indeed, the more satisfying to defeat in battle). But who are the top 10 villains from video games and online casino games that you would like to see in our top 10?
10. Dracula (Castlevania)
Few game characters transcend from folklore to contemporary evil as well as this bloodthirsty monster from Transylvania. Just as in those scary old black and whites, Dracula’s appearances in Castlevania are gripping and nerve jangling. Whenever you come up against this fanged fiend you know you are up against a powerful and formidable force.
9. Diablo (Diablo Series)
If you are going to describe an evil villain, then a Satanic-looking, fire-breathing, red dragon would probably come to mind rather fast. The frustrating thing is it seems forever before you get the chance to slay this monster, having faced thousands of others beforehand.
The nightmare continues even when you think you have succeeded, as when you kill Diablo, this hellish Lord of Terror, your skin swells and peels away, demons pop up and you are ripped apart from the inside until your character turns into Diablo.
8. Ganondorf/Ganon (The Legend of Zelda Series)
A hybrid of animal and human, Ganon’s goal is the destruction of the world. His weapon of choice is sorcery and whenever he is defeated and banished to the Dark Realm he returns even stronger and even more powerfully motivated to carry out his nefarious aims. As the captor of princess Zelda, Ganon makes you deeply believe he will succeed.
7. Nemesis (Resident Evil 3)
Not just incredibly ugly, which was only enhanced by his trench coat wearing activities, Nemesis was also incredibly powerful and his constant attacks on the beautiful Jill Valentine were the stuff of nightmares. After playing Resident Evil 3 I’m sure many gamers feared Nemesis would jump out of a wardrobe or from under the bed.
6. Psycho Matis (Metal Gear Solid 1)
This Russian-born villain was not your run of the mill bad guy, in fact, he was something of a goody working for the FBI and KGB, and not many can say that. He was a total mind-freak and had incredible powers of control. Psycho Mantis’s ability to control Mery into making sexually abusive remarks impacted on gamers who found his powers stretched beyond their computer screens.
5. Revolver Ocelot (Metal Gear Solid Series)
There is probably nothing scarier than a villain you never actually know is there. Ocelot’s use of a revolver is his trademark although this wily fox doesn’t reveal himself until he duels with Solid Snake; for the most part he carries out his evil intent in deadly secret.
4. Joker (Batman: Arkham Asylum)
As well as being one of the most infamous, the Joker is arguably the greatest comic villain there has ever been. The Joker is one of the most unfathomable and maniacally evil characters of all time.
With his ridiculous get up, the Joker disguises his intent well until his clown face gives him away in Arkham Asylum. His adversary Batman always seems to be one step behind, in more ways than one as the Joker makes plans to create a monstrous Gotham City.
3. Darth Malak (Star Wars: Kotor, Xbox)
Darth Malak, the Dark Lord of the Sith, is as nasty on the inside as he is ugly on the outside. He thinks nothing of betraying his friends and pushing people over to the dark side.
This monster is seeking to create a fleet of Sith ships in order to conquer the universe, the usual prerequisite for an evil game villain.
2. GlaDOS (Portal Series)
While perhaps not an obvious villain at first glance, not recognising the evil deviousness of this woman is your first mistake. GlaDOS is the epitome of womanly manipulation; filled with malicious hatred, she sucks you in and spits you out with venom.
Originally masquerading as a helpful guide, GlaDOS has a perverse sense of humour and plenty of cunning and perception to achieve her own malevolent ends.
1. Sephiroth (Final Fantasy VII)
As far as awesome pure evil goes, Sepiroth is the ultimate. Born from an experiment by Shinra, an unpleasant mega-corporation that used cells from extraterrestrial Jenova, Sephiroth turns nasty and decides to take control of the planet, despite the best efforts of Cloud and other Final Fantasy VII characters.
A huge sword swinging villain, he kills one of the game’s most beloved characters of all time, Aries. As tough as he is to beat, the feeling of downing this silver-haired behemoth is hugely satisfying and rewarding.
Many of these villains have sprawled across a variety of platforms, from humble comic beginnings and movie franchises to casino games. A truly dreadful villain can up the ante in any environment.
