Why is Nicol Bolas Evil?
Nicol Bolas, one of the most iconic villains in the world of Magic: The Gathering, is known for his cunning and manipulative nature. His motives are often shrouded in mystery, but his actions speak louder than words. So, what drives this ancient dragon to commit such heinous acts?
Power-Hungry Ambitions
Nicol Bolas’ primary goal is to reclaim his lost power and status as a premier planeswalker. He is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve this goal, including manipulating and sacrificing others. His obsession with power has led him to commit atrocities that would make even the most hardened of villains cringe.
- Conquest of Ixalan: Bolas sought to conquer the plane of Ixalan, enslaving its inhabitants and exploiting its resources to fuel his own power.
- Manipulation of the Gatewatch: He manipulated the Gatewatch, a group of powerful planeswalkers, into fighting on his behalf, using them to further his own agenda.
A Willingness to Sacrifice Others
Nicol Bolas has no qualms about sacrificing others to achieve his goals. He is willing to use his formidable powers to crush those who stand in his way, including his own allies. His actions are often brutal and merciless, leaving destruction and despair in his wake.
- Amonkhet’s Gods: Bolas destroyed three of Amonkhet’s gods, co-opting the remaining five to further his own power.
- Liliana Vess: He manipulated Liliana Vess, a powerful planeswalker, into serving him, using her powers to further his own agenda.
A Focus on Self-Preservation
Nicol Bolas’ primary concern is his own survival and self-preservation. He is willing to do whatever it takes to ensure his own power and influence, even if it means sacrificing others.
- Corruption of Garruk: He corrupted Garruk, a powerful planeswalker, using his dark magic to bend him to his will.
- Manipulation of Nissa: He manipulated Nissa, a powerful planeswalker, into serving him, using her powers to further his own agenda.
A Legacy of Destruction
Nicol Bolas’ actions have left a trail of destruction and chaos in his wake. His influence has led to the downfall of entire planes, leaving countless lives lost and shattered.
- Amonkhet’s Destruction: Bolas’ actions led to the destruction of Amonkhet, a plane that was once thriving and vibrant.
- The Hour of Devastation: His manipulation of the gods led to the Hour of Devastation, a catastrophic event that ravaged the plane of Amonkhet.
Conclusion
Nicol Bolas’ evil nature is evident in his power-hungry ambitions, willingness to sacrifice others, focus on self-preservation, and legacy of destruction. His actions have far-reaching consequences, leaving destruction and despair in his wake. As a planeswalker, he is a force to be reckoned with, and his evil nature will continue to shape the fate of the Multiverse for years to come.
Table: Nicol Bolas’ Notable Actions
| Action | Consequences |
|---|---|
| Conquest of Ixalan | Enslavement of inhabitants, exploitation of resources |
| Manipulation of the Gatewatch | Furthered his own agenda, used planeswalkers for his own gain |
| Destruction of Amonkhet’s Gods | Co-opted remaining gods, furthered his own power |
| Corruption of Garruk | Bent Garruk to his will, used his powers for his own gain |
| Manipulation of Nissa | Used Nissa’s powers to further his own agenda |
References:
- Magic: The Gathering Wiki
- Wizards of the Coast Official Website
- Magic: The Gathering Official Social Media