Why Resident Evil's Albert Wesker Is The Best Video Game Villain

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Resident Evil is one of the most iconic video game franchises of all time, and it's hard to talk about the series without mentioning Albert Wesker. From his introduction in the original Resident Evil all the way to his ultimate demise in Resident Evil 5, Wesker has remained a fan-favorite villain in the gaming community. But what is it about him that makes him stand out from other video game villains? One of the key factors that makes Wesker such a compelling villain is his complexity. He isn't simply evil for the sake of being evil; instead, his motivations are rooted in his past and his desire for power. Wesker is a former member of the Umbrella Corporation, the company responsible for the creation of the virus that turns people into zombies. He was a top researcher for Umbrella and was injected with a virus that granted him superhuman abilities. This experience changed Wesker, making him cold and calculating, willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals.

But what makes Wesker even more interesting is his connection to the series' protagonist, Chris Redfield. The two were partners in the first game, and Chris believed Wesker had died when the mansion they were in exploded. However, Wesker returns in later games as a major antagonist, and his interactions with Chris are some of the most memorable moments in the series. Their rivalry adds another layer of complexity to Wesker's character, as it's clear that he has a personal vendetta against Chris. Wesker's cool and collected demeanor is another factor that makes him stand out as a video game villain. He rarely loses his composure, even in the most dire of situations. His calm and calculating nature is unsettling, as it makes it clear that he is always in control. This is especially true in Resident Evil 5, where Wesker is almost always several steps ahead of Chris and his allies.

But perhaps the most iconic aspect of Wesker's character is his signature look. With his slicked-back hair, sunglasses, and black trench coat, Wesker is the epitome of cool. He exudes a sense of style and confidence that is unmatched by any other video game villain. His look has become so iconic that it's instantly recognizable even to those who haven't played the games. Overall, Albert Wesker's complexity, connection to the protagonist, cool demeanor, and signature look all contribute to his status as the best video game villain. He's a character that has stood the test of time and remains just as popular today as he was when he first appeared in the series. His legacy is a testament to the power of well-crafted video game villains and the impact they can have on players.

Even beyond , Albert Wesker is the best video game villain. Video game villains can run the gamut from over-exaggerated and cartoony like Bowser, to stereotypically evil (but lacking motivation or merit), like Lazarevic. But a truly great video game villain needs more than just a stand-out visual design or one-note personality. They also need a great backstory.

Albert Wesker is the perfect video game villain for this reason, which is why he's so likely to reappear as a villain . He has an extra layer of depth that legitimizes his actions, making him more than a one-note villain. His double-cross in the first is one of the most memorable moments in video game history, and that’s due to his well-developed motivations. Wesker is at once iconic and nuanced — a tough balance to pull off.

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Wesker’s design perfectly matches the tone of the series. His shades and tight haircut imply a professional, aloof personality which suits the series’ darker or more sinister moments. Yet his design is also a hyperinflated version of 2000s cool as in, for example, he wears a jacket reminiscent of Neo from .

The creators use Wesker’s serious demeanor to make absurd moments hilarious. Take, for example, the famous moment when Wesker catches a rocket midair in, an act so heightened that it comes off as goofy. For that reason, it's always notable when an entry into the franchise doesn't include Wesker, like