Well, a great villain is complex. They might have redeeming qualities or a tragic backstory that makes you understand them, even if you don't agree with their actions. Also, they should be a worthy opponent for the protagonist, constantly pushing them to grow and develop.
A good villain is someone who is memorable and has a unique personality. They often have the ability to surprise the reader/viewer and their presence creates tension and excitement in the story. Sometimes, they might even be more charismatic than the hero!
In a good villain story, the villain should be a force to be reckoned with. Their presence should be felt throughout the story. They need to have a unique personality, like Moriarty in Sherlock Holmes stories. He is extremely intelligent and always one step ahead. And there should be a build - up of tension between the villain and the hero. The story should make the reader or viewer wonder if the hero can actually defeat such a formidable villain.
Strength and intelligence also contribute. A villain who can match the hero in power and wits is more engaging. Like Hannibal Lecter in 'The Silence of the Lambs'. He is highly intelligent and extremely dangerous, making him a memorable villain.
A good villain adds depth and conflict. They challenge the hero, making the story more engaging.
A villain is necessary because they provide a contrast to the hero's values and goals. They make the hero's journey more meaningful by presenting difficult challenges. Plus, a compelling villain can even sometimes steal the show and become a fan favorite for their complexity and charisma.
A good story with a villain and a hero needs a clear conflict between them. The villain's motives should be compelling, and the hero's journey to overcome the villain should be full of challenges and growth.
A character can be the villain if they have immoral or unethical motives. For example, if they want to steal, kill, or deceive just for their own gain.
A good villain story often has a complex backstory that explains their motivations. It also shows their growth and development throughout the plot.
A definitive defeat. If the villain is killed in a final battle, like the dragon slain by the knight, then he's not coming back.
In a great 'the villain origin story', the character's background plays a crucial role. It might be that they grew up in a harsh environment, such as a crime - ridden neighborhood. This could have made them cynical about the world. Another aspect is the influence of other characters. A mentor figure who was actually evil might have guided them astray. For instance, in the case of some villains, they were brainwashed by a more powerful and malevolent entity, which set them on the path to villainy.
The unique motives of the villain can make an 'original villain story' interesting. For example, a villain who is not just after power or money but has a complex psychological reason for their actions, like seeking revenge for a past injustice that was misinterpreted by society.