7 Steps to Making a Memorable Video Game Villain

7. Relationship to the Gamer

In my previous article, I quoted Christopher Vogler and how he defines a great film villain as the hero of his own story. The difference is minimal when it relates to videogames. In fact, the villain€™s point of view can be the even more of antithesis when comparing it to the protagonist€™s, and gamers actually have the autonomy to do counterattack with their own hands €“ literally. An antagonist that shares opposite personality traits, values, and goals boosts the gamer€™s determination once the game is on and have to dance with the devil. Any Nazi in Sniper Elite V2, the Call of Duty series, the Battlefield series, and many other games exemplify how the protagonist may genuinely feel the need to win. Not to shelf the game once it is over and done with. Not to move on with the next adventure as soon as possible. Actually, so the gamer feels rewarded for his efforts in a personal level. Everybody wishes to see Nazis lose due to the countless crimes they committed. Whenever the gamer wants to see their opponent to lose for pinching some nerves, then the villain will always be unforgettable. Personal victory is always tasty.
 
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I'm currently enrolled in the Film Studies program at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark. If you haven't guessed by now, movies and media are as a big of a passion for me as they are for you and would love to hear what you've gotta say as well!