The Ultimate Ranking of Western RPG's Most Iconic Female Villains

In recent times, there has been a growing demand for better representation of female characters in video games, as their portrayal in past titles has been problematic. However, modern games have made significant strides in showcasing strong and diverse female protagonists who are not defined solely by their gender. Characters such as Lara Croft in Tomb Raider and Aloy in the Horizon games have proven to be just as capable and compelling as their male counterparts. Furthermore, female villains in Western RPGs have subverted stereotypical tropes and become some of the most captivating parts of their respective games. These unique characters have helped to break down gender barriers and create a more inclusive experience for all gamers.

8 Sister Friede (Dark Souls 3: Ashes Of Ariandel)

Sister Friede is undoubtedly a standout character in the game, and her boss fight is widely regarded as one of the best. The battle is divided into three distinct phases, with Father Ariandel also entering the fray in the middle. Friede is a cunning and manipulative figure, who once attempted to seize the power of the First Flame but was ultimately rejected and reduced to ash. After discovering Ariandel's Painted World, she corrupted it through her influence and actively works to prevent the Ashen One from restoring it. However, despite her best efforts, Friede ultimately falls to the might of the player-character.

7 Meredith Stannard (Dragon Age 2)

The narrative of Dragon Age 2 is undeniably robust, despite the game's various shortcomings. BioWare's signature storytelling shines through, particularly in the captivating character of antagonist Meredith Stannard. Her loathing for mages is palpable and intensifies after acquiring a lyrium sword, leading to a gradual descent into madness. This trajectory sets her on a collision course with Hawke and their allies, resulting in an enthralling central conflict that drives the game forward.

6 Dallis The Hammer (Divinity: Original Sin 2)

Dallis, the primary antagonist in Divinity: Original Sin 2, is a recurring thorn in the player's side throughout the game's epic storyline. Her intense animosity towards Sourcerers makes her an easy character to despise, but she is far from one-dimensional. As it turns out, Dallis is Fane's biological daughter and an Eternal who took over the original Dallis's identity using the Mask of the Shapeshifter. While this backstory is engrossing, it does lose some impact due to being revealed in an exposition dump at the game's end.

5 Flemeth (Dragon Age: Origins)

Morrigan's mother, Flemeth, is an imposing and captivating character in the Dragon Age series. As a powerful mage, she can easily decimate unprepared players who encounter her. Morrigan's hatred towards her mother only adds to the intimidating nature of their inevitable encounter. Players should approach Flemeth with caution during Morrigan's companion questline and ensure they are adequately prepared for battle.

4 Birna Bran (The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt)

In The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, multiple captivating storylines run parallel to the primary plot. One of these involves the dispute over the next ruler of Skellige. Geralt chooses to get involved and help uncover the mystery behind the Berserkers' attack on the contenders for the throne. By supporting Hjalmar or Cerys, Geralt discovers that the culprit behind the scheme is none other than Birna Bran, the wife of former king Bran Tuirseach. She aimed to keep the throne within her own family and had plotted for her son to inherit it, without even consulting with him.

3 Ming-Xiao (Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines)

The popularity of Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines, a Western RPG, is on the rise, and fans are excited about the game's unique vampire factions, including the intriguing Kuei-jin. Ming-Xiao, the leader of this group, is a captivating character, despite her betrayal of the protagonist if they choose to side with her. However, the boss fight against her is widely considered to be one of the game's most frustrating combat encounters.

2 Lady Maria (Bloodborne: The Old Hunters)

Lady Maria is often considered one of the most tragic villains on this list, as she deeply regretted her actions that resulted in the destruction of the Fishing Hamlet and the desecration of Kos' body. In retribution, she was confined to the Hunter's Nightmare and tasked with guarding the entrance to the Hamlet. Despite her graceful fighting style, the encounter with Maria is a brutal and unforgettable battle, making it one of the series' standout moments.

1 Kreia (Star Wars Knights Of The Old Republic 2: The Sith Lords)

The complex and conflicted personality of Kreia makes her stand out as one of the best characters in video game history. Through her journey, Obsidian Entertainment brilliantly explores the Force in innovative ways. Despite her initial desire to explore both sides of the Force, Kreia becomes disillusioned with it after her apprentice, Darth Revan, causes great strife in the universe. She takes on the task of training the Exile, the protagonist of Knights of the Old Republic 2, and forms an emotional bond with them that adds depth to their final battle. It's a pity that the game was plagued with bugs and remained unfinished upon release, as it prevented many from experiencing the exceptional writing that makes it a contender for one of the best Star Wars games ever made.