8 Video Games Where You’re the Bad Guy
Video games often cast you as the hero, saving the world or rescuing someone in need. But sometimes, I want to step into the shoes of the bad guy and see what it’s like to cause a little chaos.
These games let you dive into the villain’s role, offering a fresh twist on storytelling and gameplay. From ruthless antiheroes to outright monsters, here are eight titles where you get to be the villain, ranked from eighth to first.
8. ‘LEGO DC Super-Villains’ (2018)
In ‘LEGO DC Super-Villains’, you play as a custom villain teaming up with iconic DC baddies like The Joker and Harley Quinn. The game’s open-world lets you wreak havoc while battling a new threat, the Justice Syndicate.
It’s lighthearted fun with a cartoonish vibe, perfect for enjoying villainy without heavy stakes. The LEGO style keeps things playful, and I love how you can mix and match powers to create your own evil masterpiece.
7. ‘Maneater’ (2020)
‘Maneater’ puts you in the jaws of a vengeful shark, chomping through humans and other sea creatures. You start as a pup and grow into a terrifying predator, evolving with new abilities like armored scales or electric bites.
The open-world ocean is your playground, blending RPG elements with a darkly humorous story. I find the mix of nature documentary narration and over-the-top violence oddly satisfying.
6. ‘Destroy All Humans!’ (2020)
As Crypto, an alien invader in ‘Destroy All Humans!’, you’re tasked with harvesting human DNA and toppling governments in a 1950s-inspired world. The remake of the 2005 classic offers smoother controls and chaotic fun.
You can zap humans with alien weapons, fly in a UFO, or disguise yourself to infiltrate. The tongue-in-cheek humor and retro setting make every destructive mission a blast.
5. ‘The Darkness’ (2007)
In ‘The Darkness’, you control Jackie Estacado, a mob assassin who gains demonic powers from a supernatural entity. Betrayed by his crew, Jackie uses his abilities to summon creatures and wreak vengeance.
The first-person shooter mechanics feel unique, with powers like teleportation and weapon creation. I enjoy the gritty story and how it balances Jackie’s criminal life with otherworldly horror.
4. ‘Vampyr’ (2018)
‘Vampyr’ casts you as Jonathan Reid, a doctor turned vampire in 1918 London. You can choose to save lives or feed on citizens to grow stronger, with every choice shaping the city’s fate.
The game’s dark atmosphere and moral dilemmas make it gripping. I’m drawn to how it lets you lean into villainy by preying on the innocent, though resisting temptation is just as compelling.
3. ‘Grand Theft Auto V’ (2013)
‘Grand Theft Auto V’ lets you control three criminals—Michael, Franklin, and Trevor—each with their own brand of chaos. From heists to random mayhem, the open-world sandbox encourages bad behavior.
The story dives into their selfish motives, but the freedom to rob, steal, or cause destruction is what stands out. I keep coming back to Trevor’s unhinged energy and the game’s endless possibilities.
2. ‘Baldur’s Gate 3’ (2023)
In ‘Baldur’s Gate 3’, choosing the Dark Urge origin lets you play as a character with violent, murderous impulses. Your choices can lead to betrayals, slaughters, or embracing your bloodthirsty nature.
The RPG’s deep narrative and branching paths make every evil decision feel personal. I love how the game rewards your darkest urges with unique rewards, like sinister cloaks or powers.
1. ‘God of War’ (2005)
‘God of War’ puts you in the role of Kratos, a Spartan warrior driven by rage against the Greek gods. His brutal quest for revenge is bloody, with no one safe from his blades.
Kratos’ raw anger and the game’s intense combat make it a standout. I find his unapologetic villainy captivating, setting the tone for the entire franchise.
Which game’s villainous role is your favorite, or did I miss a wicked gem? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
