Baldur’s Gate 3: Top 10 Antagonists, Ranked

Baldur’s Gate 3 offers a rich tapestry of diverse and unique NPCs for players to encounter and engage with. While many of these characters may start as allies or remain indifferent, some evolve into formidable adversaries throughout the game. In this ranking, we explore the top ten Baldur’s Gate 3 antagonists who leave a lasting impression on players.

10. Angry Mar’hya

Angry Mar’hya, found in act three as the kennel master at the Baldur’s Gate couriers, may seem like a simple character, but her villainy lies in her cruelty towards dogs and her abusive behavior. Her actions, such as forbidding dogs from receiving affection and killing them if freed, make her a character players are driven to confront.

9. Kagha

Kagha, introduced in act one as the leader of the Druid Grove, stands as an oppressive figure who seeks to drive tiefling refugees away and perform forbidden rituals. Her intolerance and willingness to commit heinous acts, like the murder of a tiefling child, make her a formidable antagonist.

8. The Elder Brain/Absolute

While the Elder Brain serves as the primary antagonist, the oppressive regime of The Absolute is pervasive throughout the game. The Absolute’s presence and the climactic battle against her contribute to the game’s overall narrative, creating a formidable antagonist.

7. Gortash

Gortash, a chosen of Bane and manipulator of Baldur’s Gate’s populace, presents a unique moral dilemma. He offers a truce and alliance to players, challenging their sense of justice despite his past crimes, making players question their choices.

6. Ketheric Thorm

As the primary antagonist of act two, Ketheric Thorm is responsible for the shadow curse plaguing the land. His intimidating presence and connection to necromancy add depth to his character, revealing a grieving father beneath his menacing exterior.

5. Malus Thorm

Malus Thorm, another member of the Thorm family corrupted by the shadow curse, leaves a lasting impression. His terrifying character design, unsettling battle, and potential for non-combat resolution make him a memorable antagonist.

4. The Emperor

The Emperor, a mindflayer and former adventurer, adds intrigue to the storyline. While initially a protector, his deceitfulness and conflicts over the fate of the githyanki prince, Orpheus, make him a complex antagonist.

3. Orin The Red

Orin, a follower of Bhaal, embodies his tenets as a brutal assassin and shapeshifter. Her terrifying character design, voice acting, and gruesome actions, including permanently killing party members and feeding a cat to the player character, establish her as one of the scariest antagonists.

2. Auntie Ethel

Auntie Ethel, a green hag tormenting a young girl named Mayrina, combines terror and dark humor. Her strong magical abilities and memorable presence make her a formidable adversary, with hints of dark fairytale humor.

1. Raphael

Raphael, a devil, stands out as a memorable antagonist. His desire to strike a deal with the party, along with his charismatic yet sinister demeanor, creates an air of uncertainty and fear. Players are left questioning the extent of their trust in Raphael.

Baldur’s Gate 3 is available on PC and PlayStation 5, with an Xbox Series X/S version in development.