5 Video Games That Let You Play the Villain

As much as we love saving the world from eternal damnation seven days a week, we do have to acknowledge the fact that, even at the best of times, being on the opposite side of the fence can be more enjoyable. Unfortunately, though, playing the villain isn't all that common, and it's rare that you'll be presented with the opportunity to wreak havoc rather than prevent it.

The good news to all of this is that there are, in fact, still a number of video games out there that let you play the bad guy. The question is, which ones are the best in the business, and which of them give you the most freedom to sow your sadistic oats? Well, here's what we'd recommend.

5 inFAMOUS

InFAMOUS is an open world superhero game based around the downfall of a metropolis, and the few remaining factions that flood its streets scrounging for the tools needed to survive. Your role in the whole conundrum, as a power-wielding outcast, is to either unify the nation, or be the living nightmare that the city dwellers cower before.

Like other role-playing games, players can take a variety of paths toward the final curtain. That means having to make extremely difficult choices from beginning to end, knowing full well every action will have its consequence. Divide the food, or keep it for yourself? Aid the rebellion, or be the evil tyrant the rebellion fear? There's plenty of opportunities to mold a hero or villain with this one. Though, if we had to nudge you along a certain road, then it'd have to be the rough and ready one, for sure.

4. Fable

Fable is a series of dark fantasy role-playing games that predate the Xbox 360 era. Similar in design, and yet narratively oceans apart, the Lionhead-led saga tells the story of the Hero of Albion, wielder of the three powers, Strength, Will, and Skill. Set in an enchanting realm of wonders, players are invited to develop a journey of their own design, in which every choice shapes the future of Albion and its people.

Of course, no Fable game is without its compelling storyline. And on that note, the series is booming with arcs for you to follow and mysterious avenues for you to get lost in. Or, if you're happy to pursue the halo or the horns, you can also do that, tenfold. So, what will it be — marriage, kids, and fame? Or, power, servants, and notoriety? It's your world, and you can mold it in any way you see fit.

3. Evil Genius 2

If you've ever pictured yourself perched over an iron throne built on corruption and greed, then you'll definitely find something to love with Evil Genius 2. Like other business simulation games, the goal is to build an evil lair from the ground up, manage your assets, and fool the world into thinking your sweet little enterprise is built on sunshine and rainbows. In reality, though, it's an underground dictatorship — and you're the one pulling the strings.

Evil Genius 2 hands you the keys to an entire sandbox of possibilities. As the holder, you will have the freedom to build without limits. And so, the only thing stopping you from erecting an evil empire and bossing around an army of mindless drones, is your own creative boundaries.

2. Stubbs the Zombie in Rebel Without a Pulse

Because who wouldn't want to take control of a brain-dead zombie and wreak havoc across a Pennsylvanian borough, right? It seems to us that a concept like that is only a recipe for success. And it just so happens that Stubbs the Zombie in Rebel Without a Pulse is in possession of such a stew.

The idea behind Stubbs the Zombie is incredibly simple: limp and shuffle through the city of Punchbowl, devour brains, and bring humanity to its knees. Achieving such a monumental feat, however, will cost you a whole lot of time, especially as you rid the world of the living one brain at a time. But if you're willing to put in the work, then you'll have the city eating out of the palm of your hand before sunrise. If not, then you'll probably be bopping your head to The Chordettes' “Lollipop” as it plays out for the millionth time.

1. Destroy All Humans!

Destroy All Humans! is a lot like Stubbs the Zombie, in the fact that your sole purpose is to conquer the world and all its people. However, unlike Stubbs, Destroy All Humans! favors the supernatural. Specifically, aliens, along with their hunger to plunder the bare bones of society and reap the lands of all its glory.

In this relatively short but stupidly addictive action-adventure hit, players will take on the role of Crypto, an alien strapped with the tools and supernatural abilities needed to collect human DNA. Set in a deteriorating 1950s America, travelers will need to use a variety of weapons, powers, as well as utilize the skills of a tongue-in-cheek extraterrestrial being, to beat the nation into submission. Of course, it all starts with probing a cow in a backwater town. But it escalates, rather rapidly, at that. And believe us when we say — the invasion that takes place between is one of the funniest you'll ever witness.

So, what's your take? Do you agree with our top five? Are there any games you'd recommend? Let us know over on our socials here or down in the comments below.