Death is an ever-present reality in the gaming world, lurking around every corner—whether it's a bullet fired at enemies or one aimed back with a menacing smile. Given the prevalence of violence in gaming, there are instances where players simply struggle to bring themselves to pull the trigger. This could stem from a variety of reasons; perhaps one of the most compelling villains in gaming seemed destined for a sequel and was too captivating to meet their demise, or maybe players could sense the pain in their eyes and felt compassion.
Despite understanding the gravity of the situation, some exceptional video game villains have either met their end at the hands of the player or come agonizingly close to it. While most of these villains warrant their fate, it's not always easy for players to fulfill that final act of murder against such formidable adversaries.
6 Caesar
Fallout: New Vegas
One of the most astute characters in Fallout: New Vegas, Caesar emerges as a charismatic leader who introduces a radical way of life in the Mojave Wasteland. He leads the formidable Caesar’s Legion, striving to establish their presence, rivaling the New California Republic, with the aim of bringing order and enlightenment to a world ravaged by bombs and injustice.
If players opt not to align with Caesar and instead choose the morally righteous path, they are faced with the daunting task of ending this leader, akin to the betrayal of Brutus. While there are various methods to eliminate Caesar in Fallout: New Vegas, taking the time to listen to his motivations may shed light on the reasons behind his aspirations.
5 Big Boss
Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns Of The Patriots
The central figure, Big Boss, makes his final appearance in Metal Gear Solid 4, in a poignant reunion with his son, Solid Snake, now known as Old Snake. Big Boss returns to where his journey commenced decades ago, offering a poignant conclusion to the character responsible for numerous deaths throughout the franchise, portrayed as a villain due to his actions and utilization of child soldiers. Despite his transgressions, players who have experienced the Metal Gear series develop a nuanced understanding of Big Boss.
This portrayal underscores the enigmatic and unwavering nature of Big Boss, to the extent that he willingly reunites with his clone, whom he finally acknowledges as a son, even at the cost of his own life. However, this reunion proves fatal for Big Boss, as Snake remains infected with FOXDIE, designed to ensure his demise. Although players are not in control of ending Big Boss, they are compelled to witness his final moments.
4 Sans
Undertale
In the realm of indie gaming, Sans from Undertale has garnered immense popularity, and for good reason. Sans emerges as a beloved character within the game, solidifying his position as a delightful character with a kind heart. For players embarking on the Genocide Route, where they descend into darkness, Sans reveals himself as a hero, determined to halt the player character's seemingly relentless spree of murder.
For players who appreciate Sans’ personality, they face a profound internal struggle; not only is there hesitation to end the life of a character they admire, but the encounter also poses one of the most formidable boss battles in Undertale. Perhaps it's best to savor his humor and spare lives rather than resort to violence.
3 Paarthurnax
The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim
Paarthurnax embodies a dilemma that appears insurmountable. While Paarthurnax may have contributed to ending Alduin’s tyranny and displayed unwavering dedication to instructing the Greybeards in the Way of the Voice, he also bears responsibility for immense suffering. Prior to The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim, Paarthurnax served as Alduin’s lieutenant during the Dragon War, responsible for the deaths of hundreds, if not thousands, of human slaves.
This predicament presents the Dragonborn with an unresolved conundrum: do they dispatch Paarthurnax and align with the Blades, or do they permit the ancient dragon to live, thereby severing ties with the Blades? There's no clear-cut solution, as Paarthurnax emerges as a compelling villain striving to shed the shadow of his past misdeeds. Most players find themselves reluctant to end Paarthurnax, prompting them to question whether they can truly believe in his transformation.
2 Great Grey Wolf Sif
Dark Souls
No gamer embarks on their journey with the intent of confronting a beloved canine. This sentiment holds true when facing one of the most formidable bosses in Dark Souls, the Great Grey Wolf Sif. This colossal wolf assumes the role of the antagonist, compelled to engage the player in combat. Sif's enduring duty is to safeguard the grave of its master, Artorias, preventing anyone from claiming his ring and venturing into the Abyss, risking corruption.
Utilizing its master's sword with unwavering resolve, Sif is prepared to confront and, if necessary, eliminate anyone, even against its own desires. If players have already completed the Artorias of the Abyss DLC before encountering Sif in the primary Dark Souls game, Sif recognizes the player and expresses anguish, fully aware of its inevitable course of action. Bound by honor and loyalty, players find themselves compelled to defeat Sif, just as Sif is compelled to confront them.
1 Abby
The Last of Us Part 2
Arguably the most contentious figure in an already polarizing game, Abby in The Last of Us Part 2 may have her motivations comprehended by players, but she is unmistakably perceived as a villain. Abby committed an unforgivable act in the eyes of both Ellie and the player when she ruthlessly murdered Joel, the beloved protagonist of the first game, using a golf club. While Abby's slaying of Joel may be justified, given Joel's unwitting killing of her father to prevent Ellie from becoming the cure for the virus plaguing humanity.
The Last of Us Part 2 delves into themes of vengeance and its repercussions. When players are eventually tasked with engaging in a fatal confrontation with Abby, alongside Ellie, they find themselves grappling with profound questions: Is it worth the losses already suffered? How many more must perish to avenge a man who has found peace? The themes are intricate and emotionally perplexing, and Abby emerges as a villain whom some players may find themselves hesitant to eliminate—much like Ellie, who grapples with that very dilemma.