Mistborn Era 3 Must Overcome the Series’ Greatest Villain After 22 Years

Warning: This article contains SPOILERS for the entire Mistborn series, up to and including The Lost Metal.

The Importance of a Strong Villain in Mistborn Era 3

As Mistborn approaches its third era, one of its primary challenges will be to introduce a villain who can rival the iconic Lord Ruler, Rashek, from the original trilogy. Brandon Sanderson has demonstrated exceptional skill in crafting multifaceted antagonists, whether they be the morally complex Taravangian or the awe-inspiring god Ruin. Yet, few compare to the profound impact of the Lord Ruler, whose presence permeates The Final Empire.

A Shift in Setting for Mistborn Era 3

The latest addition to the Mistborn narrative, The Lost Metal, was released in 2022, marking a significant return since the previous volumes. Fans can expect a new trilogy, titled “Ghostbloods, ”set to explore an era of Scadrial infused with the aesthetics of early 1980s computer technology, a stark departure from the medieval fantasy and urban-Western tones of the previous eras. This shift aims to create deeper connections with other works in the Cosmere, enhancing interactions between characters from the original trilogy.

Why the Lord Ruler Remains Unmatched

The Lord Ruler’s Enduring Influence

Despite limited appearances, the Lord Ruler’s presence is felt throughout The Final Empire, echoing from the prologue to the climactic end. No other villain in Sanderson’s Cosmere plays as pivotal a role in shaping the plot as he does, comparable only to Odium in Wind and Truth. The stakes set forth in The Final Empire are palpable—an oppressive dictator certainly strikes more intensely than a distant god threatening to obliterate the world.

Complexity Beyond the Tyrant

What sets the Lord Ruler apart is not just his formidable power relative to the protagonists but his intricate backstory. The revelation of his origins as a Terrisman, alongside the fact that his dominance was crucial for containing Ruin, invites rich discussions about his complicated reign and the moral ambiguity that defines his character.

Comparing the Villains of Mistborn Eras 1 and 2

Shortcomings of Era 2’s Antagonists

While Mistborn Era 2 has its own strengths, it is often viewed as a step down from the engaging storytelling of the original trilogy, primarily due to its less compelling villains. Characters such as Miles Hundredlives and Mister Suit serve their functions but lack the depth and enchantment of the Lord Ruler. Telsin emerges as the most compelling among them, though she does not leave a lasting imprint on the saga. Meanwhile, Autonomy, a Shard of Adonalsium, becomes less relatable since her physical manifestation resides off-planet, distancing her from the immediate narrative.

Qualities of Era 2

Despite the criticisms regarding its antagonists, Mistborn Era 2 shines in other respects. The development of Wax and Sterris’s relationship unfolds wonderfully, showcasing Sanderson’s ability to delve into character interactions. Additionally, the integration of the Mistborn magic systems with advancing technology introduces novel combat mechanics and enhances world-building, contributing significantly to the overall experience.

The Challenge for Era 3: Surpassing the Lord Ruler

Potential Candidates for the Role of Main Antagonist

Looking ahead to Era 3, one promising character who could rival the Lord Ruler is Kelsier. Once celebrated as a heroic figure in The Final Empire, Kelsier’s evolution over centuries positions him as a compelling candidate for the role of the greatest villain. His transition from hero to a potentially darker force raises intriguing possibilities for future narratives.

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