Nintendo has been a prominent player in the video game industry since 1977, introducing some of the most renowned gaming franchises, including Mario, Pokemon, and The Legend of Zelda. While the focus is often on the heroic characters, Nintendo has also given rise to a host of formidable villains that are just as iconic as the protagonists they oppose.

Let's delve into the dark side of Nintendo's gaming universe and explore some of the most notorious villains that have captured the imaginations of gamers worldwide.

7 Bowser (The Super Mario Series)

The Archrival of Mario

Bowser, the spiky dinosaur, is perhaps Nintendo's most recognizable villain, perpetually clashing with Mario. His penchant for kidnapping Princess Peach and his dictatorial ambitions make him a formidable antagonist, despite his occasional forays into friendly competition with his adversaries.

6 Giovanni (The Pokemon Series)

The Ruthless Leader of Team Rocket

Giovanni, the leader of Team Rocket, stands out as the most nefarious character in the Pokemon universe. His relentless pursuit of power, including his attempts to clone Mew and create Mewtwo, solidifies his position as a truly menacing figure.

5 Ridley (Metroid)

The Menacing Space Pirate

Ridley, the formidable space pirate from the Metroid series, strikes fear into the hearts of gamers with his ruthless attacks and vengeful grudges, particularly against the protagonist, Samus.

4 King K. Rule (The Donkey Kong Series)

The Cruel Ruler of the Kremlins

King K. Rule, the monstrous crocodile, serves as the principal antagonist in the Donkey Kong series, inflicting hardship upon the Kongs and orchestrating elaborate schemes to steal Donkey Kong's cherished bananas.

3 Majora's Mask (The Legend Of Zelda Series)

The Malevolent Sentient Mask

Majora's Mask, with its sinister origins and manipulative abilities, poses a significant threat in The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask, challenging Link with its malevolent schemes and time-altering powers.

2 Ganon (The Legend Of Zelda Series)

The Diabolical Force of Hyrule

Ganon, the recurring antagonist in The Legend of Zelda series, relentlessly seeks to enslave Hyrule, wielding dark powers and orchestrating elaborate schemes to achieve his malevolent ambitions.

1 Lord Nightmare (The Kirby Series)

The Malefic Embodiment of Darkness

Lord Nightmare, the malevolent wizard and physical embodiment of evil in the Kirby series, poses a significant threat to the idyllic Dream Land, showcasing the darker side of Nintendo's beloved universe.