Animals have historically served humans in various ways, from providing sustenance to being adorable companions. However, in the world of video games, some animals take on a decidedly mean and malicious demeanor, posing challenges for players and wreaking havoc in virtual worlds.
These creatures, often resembling real-life animals in anthropomorphic form, exhibit a wide range of motivations, from thwarting players' progress to aspiring to dominate their digital domains. Let's delve into the realm of gaming's meanest animals.
1 Tom Nook
Animal Crossing
Tom Nook, while essential for players' financial stability in Animal Crossing, is notorious for plunging players into immediate debt at the outset of each game due to his unbridled avarice. In later installments, Nook even involves his family in his schemes, making his exploitation of players all the more disconcerting. Despite his devious nature, players are compelled to rely on him for survival in the game.
2 Killer The Doberman
Dog’s Life
In Dog’s Life, Killer, a Doberman under the command of a malevolent dogcatcher, relentlessly pursues player pups, showcasing unwavering loyalty to his master. However, players ultimately bribe Killer to cease his pursuit, revealing the fragility of such alliances.
3 Guardian Ape
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
The Guardian Ape in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice presents players with a formidable and disheveled primate with a sword lodged in its neck. While initially appearing ferocious, it is later revealed that the ape's wild nature stems from an undying parasite, evoking a sense of sympathy for the creature.
4 Shadow The Hedgehog
Sonic
Shadow the Hedgehog, initially portrayed as a villain, showcases a complex moral trajectory, undertaking heroic deeds while also engaging in nefarious acts in the Sonic franchise. In the game bearing his name, players navigate multiple morality paths, with the evil path depicting Shadow's collaboration with an alien and involvement in human casualties. Despite his allure, his malevolence is unmistakable.
5 Donkey Kong
Donkey Kong (1981)
In the original Donkey Kong arcade game, the eponymous character's sole aim is to abduct the enchanting Pauline, compelling Mario to embark on a perilous journey to rescue her. This classic narrative, echoing King Kong's tale, provided an exhilarating challenge for gamers of the 80s.
6 The Koopa Bros.
Paper Mario
The Koopa Bros., aligned with Bowser in Paper Mario, initially appear formidable but are ultimately revealed to be ineffectual pawns. Despite their repeated failures, they persist in attempting to outwit Mario, leading to their continued humiliation.
7 Eide
Night In The Woods
Eide, a feline member of The Cult in Night in the Woods, partakes in nefarious activities, including human sacrifices, cementing his status as a malevolent creature. Despite potential sympathy for cult members, Eide's reprehensible actions defy forgiveness.
8 The Empress
A Hat In Time (Nyakuza Metro DLC)
The Empress, with her callous demeanor and disregard for assistance, antagonizes players in A Hat In Time's Nyakuza Metro DLC. Her exploitation of feline minions and ultimate defeat underscore her malevolence and arrogance.
9 King K. Rool
Donkey Kong
King K. Rool, driven by insatiable avarice and a thirst for power, wreaks havoc in the Donkey Kong games, resorting to a plethora of weapons and tactics. Despite his formidable arsenal, K. Rool consistently meets defeat, emphasizing the futility of malevolence.