Unveiling the Ultimate Malevolence: The Most Sinister Baldur's Gate 3 Characters, Ranked

The Dungeons & Dragons universe incorporates a moral alignment system to guide character decisions. While not explicitly included in Baldur's Gate 3, which follows the D&D 5e rules, it is still evident which choices and characters are intended to be good or evil.

Certain characters in the game initially embark on villainous paths, although they are swiftly thwarted by the protagonist before causing significant harm. However, in some cases, the option to align oneself with these characters is presented. The perception of evil may vary, but with these characters in Baldur's Gate 3, the debate mainly revolves around the extent of their malevolence.

The following contains spoilers for the overall plot and individual characters throughout Baldur's Gate 3.

8 Astarion

Upon meeting the main character, he promptly brandishes a knife, making a less-than-positive first impression. However, this unsettling display is swiftly overshadowed by an abundance of transparently insincere charm. It's truly remarkable how readily the protagonist succumbs to their inner selfishness, resorting to greedy, offensive, or downright cruel choices in any conflict or conversation, all in pursuit of Astarion's fleeting approval.

The wayward vampire spawn is highly admired for his captivating voice and pale complexion, making him a desirable companion for players who choose the path of evil. The level of wickedness that Astarion exhibits is determined by the decisions made by the main character throughout his storyline.

At the conclusion, there is a chance to redeem him by preventing Cazador's ritual. This would result in Astarion remaining a vampire spawn, yet saving countless innocent lives. However, if he proceeds to become a Vampire Ascedent, he essentially evolves into the likeness of Cazador. His malevolence intensifies, causing him to shed any earlier endearing qualities he may have possessed.

7 Kagha

Upon the protagonist's initial encounter with this NPC, they witness her menacing a child with a dangerous creature, setting a negative tone from the start. Additionally, she possesses an unpleasant demeanor and conversing with other inhabitants of the grove reveals that even her fellow Druids hold a strong dislike for her.

Further investigation will unveil her betrayal of Halsin by becoming a clandestine informant for the Shadow Druids. This revelation heightens the disdain for Kagha, particularly from those who hold affection for Daddy Bear – a sentiment shared by all.

6 Minthara

Recruiting Minthara can sometimes involve employing intricate tactics mastered by skilled players. However, in most cases, the protagonist wishing to have her in their party must share an evil disposition, as she herself embodies wickedness.

The Drow are notorious for their animosity towards surface dwellers, as well as other races such as Drugar and Deep Gnomes, who also reside in the Underdark. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that Minthara has chosen to align herself with Goblins, with the objective of targeting Druids and innocent Tieflings. This alliance not only embodies malevolence but also carries a foul and repulsive nature.

5 Ketheric Thorm

After engaging in battles with his unstable siblings throughout various locations in Reithwin Town, encountering a Thorm capable of engaging in coherent conversations brings a sense of relief. This portrayal of Ketheric in BG3 deviates from typical evil villains, as his backstory carries a considerable amount of tragedy. However, a careful analysis suggests that his susceptibility to manipulation and insatiable thirst for power remained consistent throughout his journey. Shadowheart aptly summarizes this observation while descending the staircase leading to the Sharran Sanctuary beneath the statue in Reithwin Town. She remarks that Ketheric would willingly bow down to any deity if it guaranteed personal gains.

4 Mizora

Here's another prime example of a wicked character who manages to escape consequences solely due to their attractive appearance. Fans of Wyll and Karlach may despise her even more, but they cannot deny the enticing allure of her golden adornments and horns.

When it comes to the culture and rulers of the Nine Hells, Mizora serves as the game's primary source of information. She guides the party through treacherous contracts that bring forth immense frustration, with seemingly no chances of escape. Despite her selfish motives, Mizora remains tightly connected to Zariel, a fallen angel who dominants her particular realm within the Nine Hells. It is worth mentioning that Zariel would undoubtedly be included in this list if she were to feature in the game.

3 Gortash

Gortash, along with his partners Orin and Ketheric, is known for his manipulative tactics and reliance on personal connections rather than resorting to violence to achieve his goals. Similar to his betrayal of Karlach by handing her over to Zariel, Gortash plans to betray those who trust him. In Baldur's Gate 3, Gortash stands out as the epitome of smarminess, a shameless con artist who always seems slightly out of place in the stolen clothes he wears.

2 Cazador

The vampire lord who created Astarion is truly a despicable figure. As the character delves deeper into the details inscribed on the Rogue's back, the situation becomes exponentially more grim. Raphael reveals that this is an actual pact with a devil, granting Cazador the status of an Ascended Vampire, with the cost of sacrificing countless innocent lives.

Players familiar with Astarion's backstory are well-aware of the horrendous violence and twisted manipulation he endured at the hands of Cazador. These experiences alone are enough to solidify him as one of the most wicked characters in the game, even without considering the additional pact with Mephistopheles.

1 Orin The Red

Orin surpasses Gortash and her accomplice, Kethric Thorm, in being cold, calculating, and two-faced. However, her treachery goes beyond mere deceit; she is a literal backstabber. In addition, Orin possesses the unsettling ability to shift her shape and her shrill voice enhances her terrifying appearance.

As a direct descendant of Bhaal, the infamous Lord of Murder, Orin lives up to her great-grandfather's legacy. She takes pleasure in butchering entire families and adorns herself with their innards, proudly embracing her role as a deranged killer, alongside her repulsive nature.

Baldur's Gate 3

Platform(s) PC, Stadia, macOS, PS5Released August 3, 2023Developer(s) Larian StudiosPublisher(s) Larian StudiosGenre(s) RPG