50 Greatest Super Villains In Comic Book History

6. Doctor Doom

(Write-up by Nick Tylwalk, Bam Smack Pow Editor)

Some villains are so classic, you just need to say their names and anyone can conjure up a mental image. Doctor Doom belongs in that category, as even non-comics fans know about the main in the metal mask.

If you do enjoy reading comics, you also know that Doom is one of the most compelling, most complicated characters ever to grace a page. Primarily the main thorn in the sides of the Fantastic Four, Victor von Doom’s thirst for power has put him up against nearly every Marvel hero at one time or another — and he’s been a handful for most thanks to his blend of science and sorcery.

Of course, Doom doesn’t always lower himself to physical confrontations unless he finds them necessary. Heroes can very easily find themselves up against one of his many Doombots or other pawns he chooses to throw at them. He is a monarch, after all, ruling the land of Latveria with an iron gauntlet. You do get the feeling that it’s not that bad a place to live, so he can’t be all bad, right?

Except that his other actions suggest that he is. Doom’s desire for power is so great, he flew fearlessly into a crack in space to steal the power from the Beyonder. He also tried to make a play for the Infinity Gauntlet while it was in the possession of Thanos. Even when it seems like Doom might be on your side, rest assured that he’s only cooperating until he finds a way to turn a situation in his own favor.

As smart as he is arrogant, the only thing that’s holding him back on this list is a “What have you done for me lately?” deal. Doctor Doom hasn’t been treated kindly on film (and the upcoming Fantastic Four reboot looks unlikely to change that) and you can’t point to an animated or video game appearance and say that you’ve seen a memorable or definitive take.

It’s a shame to think Doom hasn’t kept up with the times, though also a testament to his iconic nature that he’s still this high on our list. Unless Marvel someday gets rid of the mask or his imperious attitude, he should be just fine.

Next: No. 5: Spider-Man's true archenemy