Godzilla has cemented its status as one of the most iconic movie monsters in history. This colossal kaiju — which translates to "strange creature" in Japanese — has graced the silver screen in 38 films since its debut in 1954. The immense reptilian creature is so renowned that it boasts a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame alongside legends like Marilyn Monroe and Walt Disney.
The enduring legacy of Godzilla has sparked inspiration in numerous writers, directors, and artists over the years. While the list of characters influenced by Godzilla is extensive, there are a few standout beasts that pay homage to the king of monsters.
11 Killer Croc
Featured in Batman Unlimited: Mechs vs. Mutants
- Debut in Batman #357 (1983)
- Appears in various media such as comic books, TV shows, movies, and video games
Batman's rogues' gallery is famed for its villains, among them the likes of The Joker and The Penguin. However, Killer Croc, also known as Waylon Jones, stands out as a lesser-known yet formidable adversary. Born with a genetic condition that gives him a reptilian form and superhuman strength, he has clashed with Batman multiple times since the early '80s.
In Batman Unlimited: Mechs vs Mutants (2016), Killer Croc joins forces with other villains, transforming into a colossal version of himself with icy breath. This iteration bears a striking resemblance to Godzilla, known for its atomic beam breath. The influence of the King of Monsters is evident in this portrayal of Killer Croc.
10 Lizzie
Rampaging Giant Lizard from Rampage
- First appeared in Rampage (1986)
- Originated as a character in video games
The Rampage series of video games, spanning from the '80s to the early 2000s, allows players to control giant monsters wreaking havoc on metropolises worldwide. Lizzie, a woman mutated into a colossal lizard, is a central character, albeit with varying backstories across different games.
Bearing resemblance to Godzilla, Lizzie's destructive nature is evident as players guide her through cityscapes, reminiscent of the iconic monster's path of destruction. The game even pays homage to her in Tokyo, further solidifying the connection to Godzilla. Despite initial inspiration from Ymir in 20 Million Miles From Earth, Lizzie's portrayal echoes the essence of Godzilla for many players and game developers.
9 Gigozaur
Godzilla-Inspired Board Game Character
- Introduced in King of Tokyo (2011)
- Character in a popular board game
King of Tokyo brings the thrill of city destruction to the tabletop, offering a family-friendly board game where players assume the roles of giant monsters vying for supremacy. Among the monstrous lineup, Gigozaur pays homage to the iconic Godzilla, allowing fans to embody the legendary reptile in gameplay.
Inspired by famous creatures, including a Godzilla-inspired monster, Gigozaur adds a nostalgic touch for enthusiasts looking to command a formidable kaiju during game nights.