The phrase “nice guys finish last”resonates profoundly when reflecting on a unique roster of video game protagonists who embody this concept. Instead of the traditional noble heroes, we find ourselves in the company of unrefined, coarse antiheroes who embrace a darker path to achieve their goals.
While their methods may be questionable, there’s often a time when a straightforward approach is imperative. This curated list showcases characters who, through their unapologetic ruthlessness or outrageous behavior, prove that sometimes you need to forgo niceties to get results.
Organized by the acclaim of their journeys, this assembly features figures whose adventures are unforgettable. Prepare yourself by pouring a drink, sitting back, and engaging with this thrilling exploration of games where the unconventional heroes dominate!
Spoiler Alert: The games discussed below contain significant plot details.
10 Carrion
Tentacles and Teeth
Leading our list is a being that defies traditional gender identification—a monstrous entity from the horror game, Carrion. This grotesque creature is intent on escaping its containment within a human facility. With no name and a singular goal of gaining size and strength, it quite embodies a villain archetype.
As players, you’ll take on the role of this insatiable monster, instinctively hunting and consuming humans while navigating through the facility with ferocious adaptability. The thrill of rooting for such a chaotic force is palpable, and as the story unfolds, the quest for self-discovery and vengeance comes into play.
9 Wario Land: Shake It!
Greed is Good
Among the more whimsical rogues, Wario stands out as a compelling antihero, worthy of inclusion on this list. Known primarily for his antics in WarioWare, Wario also stars in platformer escapades like Wario Land: Shake It!, which provides an odd yet enjoyable experience.
In this game, players guide Wario through levels filled with smashing obstacles and utilizing motion controls in wacky scenarios. The charm of Wario’s greedy character adds a fascinating twist to a platforming adventure as he always pursues wealth through his outlandish antics.
8 No More Heroes III
POS Versus UFO
Our next entry features the unpredictable Travis Touchdown, whose personal flaws paint a picture of a less-than-ideal companion. In No More Heroes III, players navigate through engaging worlds facing off against alien invaders in a blend of perverse humor and relentless action.
Utilizing an array of wrestling maneuvers and his signature Beam Katana, Travis becomes an anti-hero beloved for his chaotic yet enjoyable exploits. His disregard for conventional heroism and fascination with money further complicate his character, securing his place in this list.
7 MadWorld
Cayman Paints the Town Red
Initially shocking fans of Nintendo’s typically family-friendly titles, MadWorld offers a fresh take on violent gameplay. Through the eyes of Jack Cayman, players engage in a relentless battle within a reality TV show that glorifies excessive violence.
Cayman is not a hero in any conventional sense. His brutality becomes indispensable as he confronts grotesque adversaries while navigating the game’s brutal challenges. Every gruesome act is a requirement for survival—and a twisted form of entertainment.
6 Infamous 2
One Electric Badass
Cole MacGrath occupies a unique position within this collection as his actions can dictate his moral leaning through the game’s Karma system. In Infamous 2, players have the liberty to choose between villainous and virtuous routes as they navigate the chaotic city of New Marais.
The electrifying gameplay incorporates rail grinding and energetic combat, creating an engaging experience for players. While the potential for bad behavior suggests a darker journey, Cole’s character remains conflicted, which could slightly detract from his standing among pure antiheroes.
5 Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening
Dante’s Beginnings
The beloved character of Dante returns in Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening, presenting his tumultuous beginnings. Fans can explore how Dante transformed into the formidable demon killer celebrated throughout the franchise.
By allowing players to customize Dante’s combat style, the game empowers individuals to shape their experience while handling relentless foes and navigating the challenging story. This prequel’s brutality and Dante’s unyielding nature enhance its allure for gamers.
4 Demon’s Crest
Firebrand’s Revenge
While some might argue for Firebrand’s place at the top, this resurgence in the demonic hero narrative brings him into focus within Demon’s Crest. Following a betrayal in the Demon World, Firebrand embarks on a quest for vengeance against Phalanx, the once-beloved traitor turned villain.
The game unfolds as Firebrand strives to reclaim the stolen Crests that grant immense power, establishing him firmly in the antihero category. The underlying themes of betrayal and revenge enhance the depth of his character arc, providing a thrilling gameplay experience.
3 Bayonetta 2
Witchy Business
In a narrative steeped in angels and demons, Bayonetta emerges as a powerful yet flawed character. Driven by ambition and shadowed by pride, she navigates the complicated moral waters of her existence in Bayonetta 2. Despite her fierce demeanor, her ultimate goals often lean towards the greater good.
This duality lends her a unique role among antiheroes, but her desire to do the right thing amid her self-serving tendencies tempers her reception within this context.
2 God of War II
Death to the Gods
Kratos’ journey in God of War II provides a glimpse of his deepest rage. Following personal loss, he plunges into the depths of revenge against the gods who have wronged him. While later entries showcase a more developed Kratos, this title epitomizes his violent and merciless nature.
Players wield the Blades of Athena with sheer force as they traverse landscapes littered with the remnants of Kratos’s wrath. The intense gameplay and chilling storyline certify him as one of gaming’s ultimate antiheroes.
1 The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Daddy Daughter Day is Brutal
Geralt of Rivia, while not a quintessential antihero, certainly embodies characteristics that place him outside the realm of traditional heroism in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. His goal primarily revolves around eliminating monsters—often with little regard for the consequences of his actions.
Through a mixture of swordplay, magic, and deep storytelling, players encounter numerous moral dilemmas that challenge their choices and showcase Geralt’s complex character. His well-rounded persona navigates a world rife with peril, proving he’s the kind of character we need, but perhaps not one we would enjoy sharing a drink with.
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