The 50 Greatest Video Game Villains Of All Time
By Matt Becker
Greatest Video Game Villains – #50 Pope Rodrigo Borgia
Game(s): Assassin’s Creed 2
Background: The real historical figure Rodrigo Borgia (Pope Alexander VI) is the main antagonist of Assassin’s Creed 2. Holding the mystical Apple of Eden, Borgia believes himself to be the chosen “Prophet” who will lead the Templars to the mysterious Vault where he believed God resided. Controlling the assassin Ezio, the player fights to attack Borgia and eventually reclaim the Apple. Borgia later uses his influence to become elected Pope and use his power in Rome to continue his quest to open the Vault. At the end of the game, Ezio faces Borgia by the entrance to the Vault. Despite the Pope using the powers of the Papal Staff and stabbing Ezio, Ezio defeats Borgia and uncovers the secrets of the Vault for himself.
Why He’s One Of The Greatest Video Game Villains: The Assassin’s Creed series is known for incorporating historical figures into its games, and Pope Borgia is no exception. Pope Alexander VI is considered one of the most controversial Popes of the Renaissance and allegedly resorted to murder and extortion during his reign. Assassin’s Creed‘s characterization of Borgia is no less controversial. As a master of manipulation and politics, he extorts his way into the papacy with nothing but malevolent intentions. Borgia admits to Ezio that he does not actually believe in the Church, and only wanted to use political stature to open the Vault. His obsession over becoming the “Prophet” led him to being one of the most corrupt leaders of the Catholic Church and earning him a spot as one of video gaming’s greatest and most politically dishonorable villains.
Next: 49- Darth Malak