What makes a character the most powerful in fiction?

Abilities are a big factor. For example, if a character can manipulate time like Doctor Strange in some Marvel stories. He can rewind, fast - forward or even create time loops, which gives him a huge advantage. Another aspect is intelligence. Characters like Batman, who don't have superpowers but are super - intelligent, can outwit most opponents.

Power can be defined in many ways. For some, it's raw physical strength like Hulk's in the Marvel universe. He can smash through almost anything with his brute force. But it could also be about intelligence. Characters like Sherlock Holmes have a different kind of power - the power to solve the most complex mysteries. So, a combination of different abilities like strength, intelligence, magic (if in a fantasy setting), and the ability to influence others can make a character the most powerful.

The scope of a character's influence also matters. If a character has the power to control the fate of entire universes, like Eru Ilúvatar in 'The Silmarillion', they are clearly very powerful. Their decisions can create or destroy entire worlds, and all other beings are subject to their will in some way. This kind of overarching power is a key factor in determining the most powerful person in fiction.

Strength of power is a major factor. A character like Jean Grey can move planets with her telekinesis in some storylines, which is an extreme display of power. This kind of large - scale manipulation of matter sets her apart as a very powerful telekinetic.

A character can be powerful in fiction through various means. Physical strength is an obvious one, like the Hulk's incredible brute force. But it's not just about that. A character's access to knowledge and resources can make them powerful. For instance, Iron Man has his high - tech suits and his scientific knowledge. And then there's the power of influence. Characters who can inspire others, such as Martin Luther King Jr. in fictionalized accounts of the civil rights movement, are very powerful.

Raw physical strength can be a factor. For example, the Hulk in Marvel Comics has incredible physical strength that allows him to take on almost any opponent. He gets stronger as he gets angrier, which gives him an edge. Also, the ability to manipulate energy is important. Characters like Doctor Strange can use magic energy to do all sorts of things, from creating portals to attacking enemies.

Power in fictional robots can come from physical strength. For example, robots like Gigantor are huge and can overpower opponents with brute force. Their large size and strong build allow them to lift heavy objects and deal powerful blows.

Another factor is the ability to control and manipulate various elements and forces. Take the Force - users in 'Star Wars'. The most powerful among them, like Yoda or Darth Sidious, can use the Force to move objects, influence minds, and even foresee the future. But compared to someone like Darkseid from DC Comics who can control the Omega Beams and has vast intergalactic power, the scale of power is different. In general, the more diverse and extreme the abilities a being has, the more likely they are to be considered the most powerful in fiction.

Super strength is a key factor. A really powerful werewolf in fiction often has the ability to overpower multiple opponents with ease. For instance, they can rip apart enemies or break through thick barriers.

Powerful spells are a key factor. A sorcerer like Doctor Strange in the Marvel universe can cast extremely complex and powerful spells. He can open portals to different dimensions and use magic to manipulate time, which gives him a high level of power compared to other fictional sorcerers.