Let's talk about Villains (Off-Topic)

by Harmanimus , Friday, November 18, 2016, 21:16 (2716 days ago) @ SonofMacPhisto

As has been touched on in other posts to some degree, I feel that what makes a strong villain is one main feature: they are a relatable counterpoint to the hero.

Great villains aren't great because they stand on their own as some creative masterpiece of evil. It is their relationship to whatever is classified as good in the world. Darth Vader is a great villain, as he reflects the fear and anger that Luke is capable ofbut uses it to a dark purpose.

The Joker is a spectacular villain, when handled correctly, because his existance is a reflection of Batman's bad day which formed him, and that in many regards they Joker only exists as an entity in relation to Bats. Many of his Rogues Gallery work as they share something of his personality, but show it off a different tangent or extreme.

General Shepard (regardless of ones feelings on the series) is also a great example. He exists in response to the actions of the heros in MW and as a string puller. He takes his motivation from the same place the players do, but acts it out in a fashion that shows an abyss of judgement that only really makes sense in relation to Soap and Price both showing a necessary level of restraint.

The other direction I feel a villain can come from is as a force of nature. A driven antagonist beyond reason. However, the power of that villain still requires a relation to he hero(s) for any reql impact.