Games of the Year

RPGFan Games of the Year 2024: Best Antagonist

Sephiroth - Final Fantasy VII Rebirth - Best Antagonist of 2024

Winner: Sephiroth (Final Fantasy VII Rebirth)

Writeup by Abe Kobylanski

We all had an idea of how Final Fantasy VII Rebirth would end and that Sephiroth would have a role in that ending. In the prologue, Cloud recalls a moment where he was assailed by a terrifying act of cruelty, and from that point, Sephiroth’s eventual penultimate attack on our heroes looms over the entire story.  

It’s partially because Aerith has such powerful characterization that we can sense with ever-growing dread that terrible sword hanging overhead poised to fall. It makes you question the wisdom of your party choosing to follow the robed men as they spiral toward a strife-filled inevitability. Whenever Sephiroth shows up, it also means a tough boss fight is just ahead, so you better make sure your party’s ready. Here’s to the One-Winged Angel, who finally gets to fully spread his wing and to the still-to-come ending of an already great story made even grander. 


Runner-Up: Louis (Metaphor: ReFantazio)

Writeup by Zach Wilkerson

A populist leader who promises meritocracy and to hold off the invasion of “humans.” One who stokes the fears of the populous, who preys on our worst impulses, especially the underserved. One who openly admits to crimes and gains more followers with more bloodshed. 

Look, “Metaphor” is right there in the title.

Of course, Louis is far more competent than his obvious analogues, making his name as a brilliant military tactician and a skilled archmage. Even with a literal giant rock face in the sky, Louis casts the largest shadow over the Royal Tournament, undone only by the staunch belief that our best selves, our “fantasy” of what can be, aren’t possible without destruction. At least I can understand how some people would follow this guy.

So, yes, Louis is a timely villain, but at least he has principles, which, along with his malice and charm, make him one of the best antagonists of the year.


Readers’ Choice: Best Antagonist of 2024

Winner: Sephiroth (Final Fantasy VII Rebirth) (41.5% of votes)

Runner-Up: Louis (Metaphor: ReFantazio) (35.4% of votes)

Abraham Kobylanski

Abraham Kobylanski

Abe's love for RPGs began when picked up Earthbound for the SNES in 1995, and it hasn't gone out since. He grew up with the classic 16-bit RPGs, like Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasies, though he's gravitated more toward Western and Strategy RPGs lately. His passion for the genre was especially reinvigorated in the past few years with amazing games like FFVII:R, Persona 5 and Yakuza: LAD. He's always on the hunt for cool, smaller obscure games as well.