Summary
Plot twists are a technique that, when well-executed, result in some of the most iconic moments in video games. Discovering that an ally who has been with you throughout your entire journey is secretly a villain creates unforgettable memories for players.
Motivated by personal vendettas, concealed agendas, or outright deception, these betraying allies profoundly challenge players' beliefs and trust, fundamentally altering the storyline in unpredictable ways. These treacherous companions reveal their true colors at pivotal moments, each cunningly concealing their true villainous nature, leaving players stunned and rethinking every interaction with these characters.
Albert Wesker isone of the most iconic villains in theResident Evilseries. Despite this, during the first game of the franchise, he initially appears as a member of the S.T.A.R.S. Alpha team, which ventures into the forest on the outskirts of Raccoon City to investigate murders and the disappearance of the Bravo team.
However, throughout this time, Wesker was secretly assigned to gather data on bioweapons from a mansion in the forest, testing them against his squadmates, making him the primary antagonist of the game. AfterResident Evil 1, the character returned as the antagonist in subsequent games of the franchise.
Goro Akechi is one of themost complex characters inPersona 5. Initially, the young detective presents himself as a brilliant and charismatic prodigy who constantly criticizes the Phantom Thieves. However, he joins the main party for professional reasons under the codename Crow.
In one of the final dungeons of the game, Akechi reveals himself as a villain and a traitor in one of the most challenging boss fights. The character expresses feelings of hatred towards the Phantom Thieves while relentlessly pursuing self-improvement to gain acceptance from society.
Big Smoke, fromGrand Theft Auto: San Andreas, is one of the game’s most memorable characters. Initially, he is presented as one of CJ’s loyal friends and a respected member of the Grove Street Families.
However, as the plot unfolds, Smoke reveals himself to be a traitor, secretly collaborating with rival gangs and corrupt police forces to gain power and wealth. His betrayal is a devastating blow to CJ, highlighting the themes of loyalty and corruption within the game.
Presented as an apostate elf and a specialist in spirit magic, Solasoffers his wisdom and knowledge to the Inquisitors, quickly earning their trust.
By the end of the game, it is revealed that Solas is actually Fen’Harel, the legendary God of Betrayal, with plans to undo the modern world in order to restore the ancient elven kingdom. Solas is not just a traitor; he is a character driven by a desire to correct what he sees as a historical injustice, even if it means sacrificing the current world.
General Shepherd, fromCall of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, is initially portrayed as a patriotic and determined military leader, working alongside players to combat global threats.
However, in one of the series' most shocking twists, Shepherd reveals himself as a traitor responsible for manipulating events to justify a war that would consolidate his power and avenge American losses. His motivation blends revenge with a desire to reaffirm America’s military supremacy, highlighting how thin the line between hero and villain can be.
Renne is a seemingly innocent child who first appears in theTrailsseries inTrails in the Sky SC, where she, alongside her parents,introduces herself to protagonists Estelle and Joshua.
Throughout the game, it is revealed that Renne is actually the former Enforcer No. XV of Ouroboros, also known as the Angel of Slaughter, an assassin who had been covertly manipulating the actions of the player and characters all along.
Captain Qwark is a character in theRatchet & Clankseries who initially presents himself as a hero but is later revealed to be a self-serving villain. As a former Galactic Ranger, Qwark exploits his reputation for personal gain, betraying Ratchet and Clank to advance his own interests.
Throughout the series, his true nature is exposed as he aligns with antagonists, driven by greed and a craving for fame. Despite his villainous actions, Qwark occasionally strives for redemption, highlighting the blend of heroism and villainy within his character.
Atlas Is One Of The Biggest Plot Twists In Video Games
BioShock
BioShock is a shooter unlike any you’ve ever played, loaded with weapons and tactics never seen. You’ll have a complete arsenal at your disposal from simple revolvers to grenade launchers and chemical throwers, but you’ll also be forced to genetically modify your DNA to create an even more deadly weapon: you. Injectable plasmids give you super human powers: blast electrical currents into water to electrocute multiple enemies, or freeze them solid and obliterate them with the swing of a wrench.No encounter ever plays out the same, and no two gamers will play the game the same way. Biologically modify your body: send fire storming from your fingertips and unleash a swarm of killer hornets hatched from the veins in your arms. Hack devices and systems, upgrade your weapons and craft new ammo variants. Turn everything into a weapon: the environment, your body, fire and water, and even your worst enemies. Explore an incredible and unique art deco world hidden deep under the ocean.
Atlas, a key character inBioShock, initially appears as a helpful ally guiding the player through the dystopian city of Rapture. Posing as a revolutionary leader, he gains the player’s trust, offering support and direction in the chaotic environment.
However, Atlas’s true identity is revealed to be Frank Fontaine, the smuggler who rose to power in Rapture’s society and claim over the city, thus leading to its eventual downfall.
Junko Enoshima is a character inDanganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc, initially introduced as the Ultimate Fashionista, frequently seen on the covers of fashion magazines.
With the start of the killing and investigation games orchestrated by Monokuma, the robotic bear of the series, Junko seemingly dies. However, in the game’s conclusion, it is revealed that Monokuma was controlled by Junko all along. Furthermore, Junko had murdered her twin sister, revealing herself as the true Ultimate Despair.
Kingseeker Frampt, the giant serpent inDark Souls,initially appears as a benevolent guide, encouraging the player to link the fire and extend the Age of Fire. His guidance seems crucial in navigating the complex lore and challenging quests of the game.
However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Frampt’s intentions are not entirely altruistic. He serves the interests of the gods, manipulating the player to maintain their dominance.
