In RPGs, the storyline is one of the most crucial elements. Besides classic tales of heroes rescuing kidnapped princesses or chosen ones on epic quests, there’s a timeless trope: the protagonist getting betrayed.
Some games deliver betrayal twists right in your face, while others build up slowly until the shocking reveal at the climax. Here’s our list of the top 10 most legendary betrayals in gaming history.
Mercer Frey, Elder Scrolls: Oblivion
When it comes to the Thieves Guild and Dark Brotherhood in Elder Scrolls, players know better than to trust anyone too much. Working with thieves or assassins means you always have to stay alert, or you’ll end up a victim yourself. Mercer Frey, however, takes this to another level.
As the leader of the Thieves Guild, Mercer earned players’ trust early on. But as the story unfolds, you discover he’s a cunning, ruthless betrayer willing to kill anyone who stands in his way. Luckily, he doesn’t live long, because you eventually have to take him down yourself.
Riku, Kingdom Hearts
Racing against Riku on Destiny Islands makes you feel like he’s your loyal rival for life. That feeling lasts until the Heartless show up and Maleficent corrupts Riku’s heart, turning him against Sora throughout the journey.
When Riku reappears at Hollow Bastion, he steals the Keyblade and even captures Donald and Goofy. Suddenly, you’re weaponless and friendless, feeling completely powerless. Though Sora eventually forgives Riku, and Riku returns to his side in Chain of Memories, that initial betrayal is unforgettable.
Seymour Guado, Final Fantasy X
Seymour Guado is introduced as a villain from the start in Final Fantasy X. The game doesn’t spell it out, but every detail, from camera angles and music to character design, makes it clear he’s trouble. Simply put, he looks evil.
His proposal to Yuna doesn’t soften his image. The only redeeming quality Seymour has is that he briefly helps the party when he’s still on the team.
Seymour’s true nature is revealed when he kills his own father, tries to wipe out the group (except Yuna), and kidnaps her to force marriage. He’s not only hateful but also incredibly persistent, always coming back no matter how many times you defeat him. His betrayal isn’t shocking since you can sense it early on, but it still stings because he was once an ally.
Arthas Menethil, Warcraft 3
Arthas Menethil’s betrayal is one of the most iconic moments in gaming history. He’s remembered not just for turning on everyone but for how powerful and ruthless he became.
Once a hero of humanity, Arthas spiraled into madness after slaughtering an entire city to stop a plague. His last shred of humanity vanished when he claimed Frostmourne and killed his own father.
Now a Death Knight, Arthas returned to Northrend and crowned himself the Lich King, commanding a legion of undead he once vowed to destroy. While fans today know Arthas as the Lich King, those who played Warcraft 3 the first time were left with a lasting shock from his betrayal.
Delita Heiral, Final Fantasy Tactics
Delita Heiral, Ramza’s closest friend and the hero of Final Fantasy Tactics, pulled some of the most infamous backstabs in the series. He’s willing to destroy his friend’s reputation and legacy for his own gain.
After his sister’s death, Delita blames Ramza for not protecting her and swears never to be anyone’s pawn again or trust anyone.
Though he helps Ramza a few times, each “favor” only worsens Ramza’s situation. Eventually, Ramza is branded a heretic and shunned by the world, while Delita becomes king of Ivalice, achieving his lifelong dream in the most ruthless way. Meanwhile, Ramza, once his best friend, is erased from history.
When Delita’s wife, Queen Ovelia, confronts him about this, he silences her too. Nothing is crueler than that!
Source: The Gamer, translated by gearvn
