The Top 10 Batman Villains, According to Fans!

Recently, Ranker conducted a major survey to determine the greatest Batman villains of all time. The survey featured nearly 100 villains, but in our report, we’ve narrowed it down to the top ten to give you a clearer view, complete with our own comments and insights.

Given the significance of this list, we’re excited to present the results. We’ll be counting down from 10th to 1st place, with the top spot reserved for the ultimate Batman villain. We hope you enjoy the list!

10. Ra’s al-Ghul

While the absence of villains like the Mad Hatter, Solomon Grundy, Anarky, and Harley Quinn from the top ten might seem surprising to some, Ra’s al-Ghul undeniably stands out as one of Batman’s most formidable and enduring adversaries. Though his methods are more complex compared to other villains, his danger and influence make him a deserving member of this elite list.

9. Poison Ivy

As one of only two female villains on this list, Poison Ivy is a character with significant depth and a compelling background. She is both extremely dangerous and highly popular among fans. Her seductive nature adds to her threat, and her ability to control nature firmly establishes her as one of the top ten most iconic Batman villains.

8. Catwoman

Selina Kyle may be one of the less formidable villains on this list, but her longstanding fame makes her a worthy inclusion. As one of Batman’s oldest adversaries, her complex relationship with the Caped Crusader has earned her significant respect from Batman fans. There’s no doubt that her legacy and impact justify her place in the top ten.

7. Scarecrow

Jonathan Crane is the personification of fear and one of Batman’s most formidable foes. Driven mad by his obsession with fear, Crane perpetually develops new versions of his terrifying Fear Toxin to amplify the horror inflicted on his victims. He unquestionably ranks among Batman’s greatest villains, and while we fully support his inclusion on this list, we might have placed him higher personally.

6. Mr. Freeze

Revamped by Paul Dini to perfection, Mr. Freeze evolved into an iconic Batman villain in the 1990s, shedding his former campy, ice-pun persona. With one of the most compelling backstories in Batman’s universe, he combines both formidable power and intriguing depth. Without a doubt, Mr. Freeze is a top five contender and fully deserves his place on this list.

5. Two-Face

Two-Face, much like Mr. Freeze, boasts a compelling backstory, but he has a deeper and longer history as a villain, with a personal connection to Batman’s own narrative. This longstanding relationship likely contributes to his greater popularity among fans. Over the years, Two-Face has evolved significantly, offering a wealth of intriguing developments, particularly from a philosophical perspective.

4. Riddler

True to his name, the Riddler is a complex puzzle and a fan-favorite character. Regardless of the interpretation, he remains consistently intriguing, continually reinventing himself just as he crafts his elaborate traps and riddles. As one of Batman’s most enduring adversaries, the Riddler unquestionably merits a spot in the top five.

3. Bane

Despite his imposing appearance often leading to stereotypes of him as just a muscle-bound brute, Bane is far from lacking in intelligence. He is famously known for “breaking the Bat,” a feat no other villain has achieved, and is renowned for his strategic brilliance. This blend of immense strength and sharp intellect makes him one of Batman’s most formidable and notorious adversaries.

2. Penguin

Oswald Cobblepot, aka the Penguin, is Gotham’s leading crime lord. Although he may not be physically powerful, he commands significant influence and poses a serious threat. His compelling and tragic backstory adds considerable depth to his character, which endears him to comic fans and justifies his spot in second place on this list.

1. Joker

Naturally, the Crown Prince of Crime is the top choice here, as the Joker unquestionably stands as Batman’s greatest and most formidable foe. He represents the quintessential superhero adversary—obsessed with Batman, just as Batman is obsessed with him. The Joker is the one who has consistently challenged Batman the most and pushed him to his limits, which is why he rightfully deserves this top spot.

Do you agree with this list? Let us know in the comments below!

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