What are some common names for the central bad guy in a story?

Sure. 'Zephyron' could be a unique name. It has an otherworldly feel, like a force of nature that is turned bad. 'Nexus' is also unique. It gives the impression of being at the center of something, perhaps a web of evil in the story. 'Vesper' can be used as well. It has a bit of a twilight or dark evening kind of connotation, which is perfect for a villain.

Well, 'Shadowblade' can be a great bad guy name for a story. It has a menacing and stealthy feel to it, like a character who strikes from the shadows. 'Thorn' is also a suitable name. It gives the impression of being prickly and difficult, someone who is not easy to deal with. And 'Grimlock' - it sounds really tough and menacing, like a character who is unyielding and fierce.

Maleficent. It gives an air of someone who is malicious and full of ill - intent, perfect for a powerful female villain. Another one could be Voldemort. This name has become synonymous with ultimate evil in the Harry Potter series. And then there's Loki. In Norse mythology and the Marvel universe, Loki is known for his trickery and causing chaos.

When choosing a bad guy name for a story, it's important to consider the mood you want to create. If you want a spooky mood, 'Ghostly Grim' could be good. You also need to think about how the name will sound when read aloud. 'Malevolent Max' has a nice ring to it. Additionally, you can base the name on the character's appearance. If he has a scar, 'Scarface Sam' could be appropriate.

One common theme is justice. The good guy is usually fighting for what is right and fair, like in a story where a detective (the good guy) chases a criminal (the bad guy) to make sure the law is upheld. Another theme is sacrifice. Sometimes the good guy has to give up something to defeat the bad guy, for example, a hero leaving his family to go on a dangerous journey to stop an evil force. Also, redemption can be a theme. Maybe the bad guy has a chance to change in the story, but often they don't take it and the good guy has to force the situation to a conclusion.

A great bad guy name for a story could be 'Onyx'. The black gemstone has associations with darkness and mystery, which are qualities often associated with villains. 'Grimm' is another one. It can bring to mind a character who is very severe and perhaps has a dark side. 'Wraith' is also suitable as it gives the idea of a shadowy, ghost - like and menacing figure. The name is often used for characters that are difficult to defeat and are very spooky.

Manipulation. Bad guys often manipulate others in the name of love. For example, they might lie to get closer to someone they desire.

You could use names like Michael, William, and James. Michael is a very versatile name that can be used for a wide range of characters, from heroes to villains. William has an old - fashioned charm and can be used for a noble or intelligent character. James is a popular name that gives off a sense of familiarity and can work well for a main character who is easy to like.

Sacrifice. The 'bad guy' turned good often has to make sacrifices in the name of love. In 'Titanic', Jack, who was a bit of a scoundrel in some ways at the start, falls in love with Rose. In the end, he sacrifices his life for her, which is also a form of redemption as he goes from a carefree character to one who shows ultimate self - lessness.

Some common names for bad guys in stories are 'Dracula'. Dracula is a well - known vampire in many horror stories, representing evil and the thirst for blood. Another one could be 'Joker'. The Joker in Batman stories is a chaotic and malevolent character known for his insanity and causing mayhem.