Got a favorite video game rivalry that gets your pulse racing faster than a high-speed car chase? Well, we know just how electrifying those confrontations can be, and that’s why we’ve got this hot list of the greatest video game rivalries up our sleeves. Just wait till you take a look!
Rev up your engines as we race into the heart of gaming’s most legendary face-offs. From classic grudge matches to modern feuds, these rivalries have provided some of the most memorable and exhilarating moments in video game history. There’s nothing like a good head-to-head clash to ignite a storyline, right? So, throw down the gauntlet, and let’s get to introducing these iconic game rivalries!
Solid Snake vs. Revolver Ocelot (Metal Gear Solid series)
Solid Snake's rivalry with Revolver Ocelot began in Metal Gear Solid. They have clashed numerous times throughout the series, with Ocelot working as an antagonist in the shadows, often manipulating events from behind the scenes. The rivalry seemingly concluded with the events of Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, where Ocelot's true motivations were revealed.
Mario vs. Bowser (Super Mario series)
The rivalry between Mario and Bowser began with the original Super Mario Bros., where Bowser kidnaps Princess Peach. Mario has been rescuing Peach from Bowser's clutches ever since. Throughout the series, the tables have turned several times, with Bowser occasionally assisting Mario, such as in Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars and Super Paper Mario.
Sub-Zero vs. Scorpion (Mortal Kombat series)
The rivalry between Sub-Zero and Scorpion is rooted in the conflict between their respective ninja clans, the Lin Kuei and the Shirai Ryu. Scorpion initially sought revenge for Sub-Zero killing him and his family, but the truth was later revealed that Quan Chi had framed Sub-Zero. The rivalry evolved into a more complicated relationship as they sometimes fought together against common enemies.
Master Chief vs. The Covenant (Halo series)
The rivalry between Master Chief and the alien collective known as The Covenant started in Halo: Combat Evolved. The Covenant, a theocratic alliance of alien races, aimed to activate Halo installations, which would have wiped out all sentient life in the galaxy. The tables turned in Halo 2 when the Covenant fractured, and the Elites allied with Master Chief against their former allies.
Kratos vs. Ares (God of War)
The rivalry between Kratos and Ares, the Greek God of War, began when Ares tricked Kratos into killing his own wife and child. Seeking revenge, Kratos embarked on a quest to gain the power to defeat Ares. The rivalry concluded in the original God of War game, with Kratos killing Ares and becoming the new God of War.
Nathan Drake vs. Rafe Adler (Uncharted 4: A Thief's End)
The rivalry between Nathan Drake and Rafe Adler began when they partnered in a quest to find the lost pirate treasure of Henry Avery. However, Rafe's greed and ruthlessness led to a falling out between them. The rivalry intensified throughout Uncharted 4, with Rafe trying to eliminate Nathan and his friends to claim the treasure for himself. The rivalry ultimately concluded with Rafe's defeat and the collapse of the pirate treasure's hiding place.
Sonic vs. Dr. Eggman (Sonic the Hedgehog series)
Sonic the Hedgehog's rivalry with Dr. Eggman (also known as Dr. Robotnik) began in the original Sonic the Hedgehog game, where Eggman captured animals and turned them into robots. Sonic's goal is to free these animals and stop Eggman's nefarious plans. The rivalry has continued throughout the series, with occasional team-ups when facing a common enemy, such as in Sonic Adventure 2.
Ryu vs. Sagat (Street Fighter series)
The rivalry between Ryu and Sagat started in the original Street Fighter game, where Ryu defeated Sagat, leaving him with a scar across his chest. Sagat sought revenge against Ryu, leading to several battles throughout the Street Fighter series. The rivalry cooled down in later games as Sagat eventually gained respect for Ryu.
Leon S. Kennedy vs. Albert Wesker (Resident Evil series)
The rivalry between Leon S. Kennedy and Albert Wesker began in Resident Evil 2, where Leon, a rookie police officer, found himself in the middle of the Raccoon City outbreak. Wesker, a former S.T.A.R.S. captain, was revealed to be involved in Umbrella Corporation's sinister activities. Their rivalry continued throughout the series, with Wesker attempting to achieve global domination through bioterrorism, and Leon fighting against him as a government agent. The rivalry seemingly concluded in Resident Evil 5, where Wesker met his demise.
Samus Aran vs. Ridley (Metroid series)
Samus Aran's rivalry with Ridley, the leader of the Space Pirates, began when Ridley attacked Samus's home planet, killing her parents. Throughout the Metroid series, Samus faces Ridley multiple times as she fights against the Space Pirates and their attempts to weaponize Metroids. The rivalry continues with various incarnations of Ridley, including Meta Ridley and Omega Ridley.
