2 – Edward James Kenway (Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag)
It was a pretty good toss-up between Assassin’s Creed Black Flag‘s Eddie and his assassin brethren Ezio Auditore but the fact is that pirates always win. In essence assassins are the white guy’s version of a ninja so a ninja crossed with a pirate will win badass awards every single time. Edward comes from humble beginnings and after setting himself up in a career with the British Royal Navy as a privateer he decides that he has a taste for finer things. With a lust for wine… well rum at least, gold, fame and glory Edward becomes one of the most feared pirates to ever sail the seven seas. Despite his selfish motivation Edward struggles with his conscience on more than one occasion and, without giving anything away for those that haven’t played the game yet, proves himself to be more than just another swashbuckler flying the Jolly Roger.
1 – Kratos (God of War)
Ok, we know this one’s a stretch but hear us out. A Spartan Warrior, Kratos is likely the toughest S.O.B. on this list hands down and although it’s arguable whether or not he’s a true good guy he’s not exactly villain status. We’re talking about a man who would rip your own arm off to beat you with it before making you swallow your own eyeballs. He’s got a taste for violence of the goriest kind but it all started back when he was a young man. His brother stolen from him by the Gods he has sworn revenge on the Olympians from that very day. Fierce with pride and with the noblest of reasons Kratos is a force to be reckoned with and without a shadow of a doubt the most badass guy with a hidden heart of gold (we’re talking real hidden) to grace this list.