If you're not sure what sort of villain would benefit your story, have a look at these types and see which one might work best. These types can overlap! Don't feel constrained.
The Villain Workbook takes you step-by-step through the process of creating memorable villains your readers would love to hate. Packed with reference sheets and fillable templates, you'll create villains that perfectly fit your story's needs.
The Reluctant Villain
This villain is forced into their role through circumstances beyond their control. They might feel like a life of villainy is their only choice, despite feeling conflicted about it. They may be grappling with feelings of guilt or remorse. They may even have noble goals.
These characters may be sympathetic to readers (we love a complex character!), making their possible defeat bittersweet.
Ideological Villain
This villain is driven by their ideology...or hiding behind it. They may be convinced that their way of thinking is the only correct one and they will go to great lengths to enforce it onto others.
Misguided Villain
This type of villain is acting on a false belief. They may have been lied to or manipulated. They might get a shock when they learn the truth. They may be sympathetic to readers if they’ve been manipulated, or they may just seem like a gullible idiot.
Manipulative Villain
They may never commit an act of but their preferred weapon is manipulation. They may be charismatic and charming, but they are ultimately self-serving and will manipulate others to get what they want.
The Fun Villain
Not all villains need to be scary! It really depends what kind of story you want to tell. If your story is comedic or low-stakes, this can be a great choice.
Fun villains are typically lighthearted, chaotic, witty & mischievous. On the other hand, they can also be comedically inept or oafish.
They may see their villainous actions as a form of entertainment or a challenge rather than true evil.
Vengeful Villain
Something happened to this villain or to people they care about and now they're motivated by revenge. Often these are the villains where you find yourself going “fair enough” or “good for her”. (Or...just me?)
Power Hungry
These villains are usually businesspeople, royals, politicians, or tyrants. They want power and control, and may go to extremes to obtain it. Stories with this kind of villain often have themes about greed and power.
Envious Villain
This type of villain resents the success, accomplishment or happiness of others. They may be consumed by their own bitterness or see the world as an unfair and unjust place, causing them to take action.
The Beast
Often a literal beast, this villain can't be reasoned with. They may be a monster, an animal, or a force of pure evil. Although there's less nuance with this type of villain, they can be very effective players in certain story types.
