Top 10 Star Wars Games Featuring Villain Protagonists
As an avid player of every significant Star Wars game, I’ve crafted this list to highlight titles that delve into the dark side of the Force. To make the cut, a game’s narrative must primarily revolve around dark themes or allow for impactful dark choices. While canonical status isn’t a necessity, purely light side narratives with optional malevolent endings—such as in Force Unleashed II or Jedi Outcast—are not included.
The criteria also dictate that you must take control of a character or a ship; real-time strategy games don’t qualify. Furthermore, the protagonist has to embody a truly nefarious character. Thus, charming scoundrels like Kay Vess won’t be listed here.
Games are ranked based on how effectively they reflect the essence of the dark side. Not all titles feature the Sith overtly, but the Code of the Sith serves as a guiding principle for identifying a true ‘villain’:
Peace is a lie. There is only Passion.
Through Passion, I gain Strength.
Through Strength, I gain Power.
Through Power, I gain Victory.
Through Victory, my chains are Broken.
The Force shall free me.
The more a game resonates with this philosophy, the higher it ranks. With that established, let’s explore the darkness.
10 Star Wars: The Old Republic
A Realm of Choices: Good, Bad, or Neutral
The MMORPG The Old Republic (‘SWTOR’) is a critical inclusion here. Though it may have diminished in popularity over the years, its narrative richness remains impressive. Players can choose various paths, including those of Sith Inquisitors or Sith Warriors, with decisions that resonate throughout their journey.
Because of the numerous story arcs, it’s difficult to pinpoint just one for this list, which is why its position reflects a broad interpretation of ‘dark side’ mechanics. When playing the villain, the range of approaches you can take is virtually limitless, with some paths leaning towards comical evil and others exuding a chilling calm.
The most intriguing routes involve subtle manipulation, where players act like heroes while leaving devastation in their wake.
9 Star Wars: TIE Fighter
Serving the Empire with Relentless Dedication
TIE Fighter stands as a landmark for players wanting to embrace the dark side, placing you in the cockpit of an Imperial pilot, unwaveringly enforcing the Emperor’s directives. There are no lingering doubts or moral conflicts—just pure loyalty to the Empire.
Your missions revolve around vanquishing insurgents and maintaining order in the galaxy. The TIE Fighter experience fulfills every Star Wars fanatic’s desire to pilot this iconic craft.
As the narrative unfolds, players evolve into covert operatives for the Emperor, engaging in increasingly wild missions. This game immerses players into the life of a villain, teaching them the intricacies of bad-guy strategy.
8 Star Wars: Battlefront II (2017)
Imperial Loyalty with a Twist of Redemption
Despite mixed reviews, Battlefront II (2017) garnered attention for its compelling campaign. You step into the shoes of Iden Versio, commander of the elite Death Trooper squad, Inferno Squad. Initially, you’re unwavering in your commitment to the Empire, excelling at your dangerous tasks.
However, witnessing the Empire’s actions during the Battle of Endor leads to self-reflection and a pivotal change in allegiance, ultimately positioning Iden and her companion Del against their former superiors. The campaign culminates in an emotional confrontation with her former commander, Gideon Hask.
7 Star Wars: Bounty Hunter
Jango Fett: A True Anti-Hero
While typically avoiding neutral characters, I must make an exception for Jango Fett, who meets his heroic threshold through violence against Jedi. As you pursue a renegade Jedi across various locations, every encounter is driven by your singular goal: financial gain.
Your journey culminates in a deal with Dooku, foreshadowing future events like the rise of the clone troopers, especially poignant given the game’s release before Revenge of the Sith.
There’s no internal conflict here—just the relentless pursuit of profit, embodying the essence of a true villain.
6 Star Wars: Squadrons
A Stunning Visual Experience with Limited Replay Value
Star Wars: Squadrons premiered to a strong start but saw a decline shortly thereafter. Its dual storyline format, reminiscent of Halo 2, depicts the New Republic’s Vanguard Squadron and the Empire’s Titan Squadron.
Initially, players exhibit blind faith in the Empire, battling any forces threatening their order. The prologue showcases ruthless missions involving the execution of defectors without question or hesitation.
Unlike many other titles, Squadrons does not present moral quandaries, maintaining a steadfast loyalty to the Empire throughout its storyline.
5 Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith
Anakin’s Fall from Grace
The exceptional video game adaptation of Revenge of the Sith remains a personal favorite. The mechanics align perfectly with the fighting styles of Anakin and Obi-Wan, capturing their intense rivalry.
As players navigate through the film’s storyline, you experience Anakin’s heartbreaking shift to darkness, successfully executing Mace Windu and carrying out Order 66.
An alternate ending showcases a scenario where Vader defeats Obi-Wan, leading to a drastically different universe. This title deserves its spot for brilliantly portraying Anakin’s internal repression and the depth of his anger and malice.
4 Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
Embrace Your Dark Legacy
Knights of the Old Republic (or ‘KOTOR’) ignited my Star Wars gaming enthusiasm. Released in 2003, it was revolutionary in its storytelling.
As you begin your journey as an amnesiac character on a Republic ship under siege, you gradually define your identity and powers. Ultimately, the shocking revelation that you are Revan, a dark lord of the Sith, awaits you.
The player’s choices will determine whether Revan is redeemed or embraces their Sith powers, with some abilities feeling ruthlessly powerful, such as the infamous Force Death Field.
3 Star Wars: Battlefront II (2005)
Execute Order 66: A Dark Journey
Nostalgia overtakes me when I reflect on Battlefront II (2005).It was a staple during my childhood, especially for its dark side campaign.
As a member of the legendary 501st Legion, you experience the complexities of being a clone trooper entrusted with Order 66, turning against the Jedi you once fought alongside.
The narrative tragically illustrates the clones as mere pawns in a larger game, underscoring the contradictions in their loyalty. In Mission 3 on Kamino, players confront the grim reality of killing their fellow clones, highlighting the conflict between order and morality.
2 Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II
Unraveling Dark Choices
Knights of the Old Republic II (‘KOTOR II’) captivates with its psychological depth compared to its predecessor. Here, you take on the role of the Exile, a Jedi who has cut ties with the Force.
As you return to confront your past choices—some yours, some dictated by others—you grapple with a wealth of power and the temptation of darker paths.
The voice of Kreia, your mentor, influences your decisions as the thin line between redemption and manipulation blurs. While light side actions remain available, the allure of the dark side beckons with a cold pragmatism.
1 Star Wars: The Force Unleashed
A True Dark Side Fantasy
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed epitomizes the ultimate dark side fantasy, thrilling fans with its dramatic narrative and gravity-defying gameplay. You assume the role of Galen Marek, Darth Vader’s secret apprentice, trained in the shadows of the Empire.
The game’s narrative includes a powerful arc where you execute Jedi and grow your Force abilities, culminating in epic confrontations against seasoned Jedi. The inclusion of a love story with Juno Eclipse adds depth, leading to betrayal at the hands of Vader.
In the light-side ending, Galen ultimately sacrifices himself for his friends, serving as an emblem of redemption, even amidst tragedy. The alternate “Ultimate Sith Edition” reaches a different conclusion, providing rich material for exploration.
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