The 50 Greatest Video Game Villains Of All Time
By Matt Becker
Greatest Video Game Villains – #41 Zachary Comstock
Game(s): Bioshock Infinite
Background: The leader of the ultra-nationalist Founders that created the floating city/warship of Columbia, Zachary Hale Comstock is the main antagonist of Bioshock Infinite. As the leader of the floating utopia, Comstock manipulated the citizens of the city into worshiping him as a god, earning the names “Prophet” and “Father Comstock.” He believes that he has the ability to predict the future as well as attacks from his enemies, including the protagonist. Comstock is a religious madman, forcing his racism and malevolent philosophies upon the people of Columbia while he attempts to “cleanse” the world below. In a crazy twist at the end of the game, it is revealed that Comstock is actually an alternate version of the protagonist from another reality, only adding to the brilliance of his characterization.
Why He’s One Of The Greatest Video Game Villains: Father Comstock is a true master of manipulation. His religious zealotry had such an influence on the naive people of Columbia that citizens would be willing to die for their leader, drawing some analogies to modern-day North Korea. This madman portrays all the personality traits of a true madman and embodies the worst facets of humanity. The plot twist involving Comstock at the end of the game really solidifies the historical influence he has on the BioShock universe. His character design is played out extremely well and is a key factor to the game’s narrative. Any character that is so evil and corrupt that you want to personally destroy them makes for a great villain, and Zachary Comstock is no exception.
Next: 40- Dr. Neo Cortex