Genshin Impact has many characters. Few induce as much fear and fascination as Il Dottore. He is not your usual villain. Dottore dives deep into moral gray areas. He is a brilliant mind but twisted. His obsession pushes humanity’s boundaries. Who is this unsettling figure? Let’s dissect the Doctor.
Unmasking the Doctor: Identity and Origins
Behind the experiments and detached demeanor lies a man of disturbing origins. Let’s explore Dottore’s identity.
The Name Game: Zandik, Dottore, The Doctor
Whispers in Genshin lore suggest Dottore wasn’t always known as “Dottore.” Rumors say his birth name is Zandik. This name echoes in hushed discussions about his past, hinting at a life before the Fatui. Regardless of what you call him, both names fit his persona. He is the Second of the Eleven Fatui Harbingers, a title that suggests danger.
Italian Roots: Born in Bologna?
Dottore’s origins might trace back to Italy, specifically Bologna. This detail ties to the Commedia dell’arte inspiration for the Harbingers. Imagine, a brilliant mind from Italy becomes one of Teyvat’s most morally challenged figures. Quite a journey, right?
Driven by God-Complex: The Obsession
What drives Dottore’s experiments and actions? Ambition gone awry fuels his relentless pursuit. From a young age, Zandik wanted to create “enhanced humans.” Not just stronger or smarter, he aimed to surpass gods. This obsession is the engine behind his horrifying work. Subtlety? Not in his vocabulary.
The Devil in the Details: Appearance and Personality
Dottore’s looks are as unsettling as his personality. Let’s break down what makes him memorable.
Visually Unsettling: A Palette of Pale and Piercing
Dottore screams “mad scientist” with an air of aristocratic menace. Picture medium-length, light blue hair framing a pale face. It hints at his lab hours, not sunlight. His eyes are red and piercing. Often concealed, they add mystery. The sharp teeth almost give him a predatory smile. Comforting? He is not designed to be so.
Masked Intentions: Hiding Behind Porcelain
The mask is nearly synonymous with Dottore. Sometimes a half-mask, sometimes a full one. It partially obscures his face. This isn’t just drama; it accentuates his arrogance. The mask shows his self-importance, separating him from the world.
Personality: A Symphony of Sinister Traits
Evil” barely describes Dottore’s traits. He’s called the “most evil character” in Genshin Impact without exaggeration. Psychopathic tendencies? Check. Morally bankrupt? Absolutely. Empathy? Apparently misplaced in his lab. He is pompous and self-important. In the manga, he sacrifices subordinates with cold indifference. Yet, in trailers, another side emerges: calculated and cold. This duality makes him unpredictable and terrifying.
Experiments and Explosions: Dottore’s Role in the Narrative
Dottore’s actions leave a trail of ethically questionable experiments. His hands are far from clean.
The Mad Scientist’s Lab: Experiments Gone Wrong (and Right?)
Dottore’s name is synonymous with unethical experiments. His obsession isn’t just philosophical; it’s gruesome. Human experiments? A cornerstone of his research. Lives are expendable in his pursuit of “truth.” Charming, isn’t he?
Collei’s Trauma: A Childhood Stolen
Collei’s story showcases Dottore’s cruelty. She fell into his clutches as a child. Under the guise of treatment, he subjected her to horrific experiments with Archon Residue. He didn’t cure her; he weaponized her disease, inflicting psychological trauma. Barnabas detained Collei, but Dottore is the architect of her suffering. It highlights his depravity.
Scaramouche’s Manipulation: From Puppet to… Puppet?
Dottore’s relationship with Scaramouche exemplifies manipulation. He saw potential in Scaramouche, a puppet of the Electro Archon. He “modified” him for powers beyond Ei’s design. This was no act of kindness; it was control. Dottore twisted Scaramouche’s memories, fueling his vengeful nature. Even Scaramouche feels disgusted about how Dottore orchestrated his betrayal.
Irminsul in Flames: A Vision of Destruction?
The Sumeru Archon Quests show chilling glimpses of the future: Irminsul, the great tree of knowledge, consumed by flames. Dottore might be the arsonist. Trailers depict him amid burning branches. Destroying Irminsul isn’t just villainous; it threatens the world. His status as a major antagonist is solidified.
The Gnosis Exchange: A Deal with the Devil (or Nahida)
Dottore strikes a deal with Nahida, the Dendro Archon. He trades Electro Gnosis for the erasure of his segments. Yes, you read that right. In a moment of pragmatism, he agrees to eliminate his clones. Nahida confirms the deal is complete. Why would he agree to this? What’s Dottore planning now? This development adds complexity to his character.
Relationships: Twisted Ties and Fan Speculation
Even villains have relationships, twisted as they may be. Dottore is no exception. Let’s explore his connections with others.
Scaramouche: A Toxic Tango
Dottore and Scaramouche’s relationship is dysfunctional. It’s a manipulative dynamic where Dottore holds all the power. He modified Scaramouche and used him as a research subject. “Toxic” is an understatement. Their relationship is built on exploitation.
Pantalone: Partners in… Crime?
Theorizing Harbinger relationships is a favorite for Genshin fans. Dottore and Pantalone spark speculation due to their shared origins. Some see a “Birds of a Feather” dynamic, wanting to reshape the world’s order. Others suggest an “Outlaw Couple” idea, where Pantalone funds Dottore’s dubious experiments. Unethical research costs money.
Lisa: A Segment of the Past?
Here’s where fan theories thrive. Dottore creates “segments” – clones of himself. A popular theory suggests one encountered Lisa and formed a romantic connection. It’s a wild idea but fuels imagination regarding Dottore’s fragmented existence.
Nahida: Fear and Loathing in Sumeru
Dottore seems afraid of Nahida. Given her Archon status, it’s no surprise. Perhaps he realizes her power could truly threaten him. This fear adds depth to their dynamic, considering their recent Gnosis exchange.
Morality Meter: Off the Charts Evil
Let’s be clear: Dottore won’t win any “Good Samaritan” awards. His morality is deeply compromised.
Evil Incarnate? The Bar is Set High
Is Dottore evil? Most Genshin players would emphatically say YES. He’s often labeled as
Il Dottore holds the title of the most evil character in the game. His actions and lack of remorse earned him this role. He experiments on children. He manipulates others for his gain. He seems ready to cause global destruction. If that is not evil, what is?
Motivations: The Ends Justify the Unethical Means
Dottore’s motivations are grand. They surpass gods. However, they are paved with unethical actions. He obsessively seeks “enhanced humans.” He conducts terrible experiments. He disregards human life and suffering. His pursuit of “truth” fuels this ambition. He believes ends justify means. This classic villain trope fits him well.
Bonus Dottore Details: Quirks and Theories
There are intriguing details that define Dottore. Smaller plot points add depth to his character. Let’s explore some fun trivia.
Segmented Existence: The Many Faces of Dottore
Dottore can create segments or clones. These are not just copies. They act as independent entities. They possess their own experiences, at least until recently. This ability adds layers to his personality. It makes him a fragmented antagonist.
Chocolate Cravings? A Sweet Tooth Theory
This theory is lighter. Fans suggest that Dottore loves chocolate and sweets. This comes from Commedia dell’arte references. “Il Dottore” character enjoys such treats. Imagine this evil genius secretly indulging in chocolate, while denying it vehemently. It is a humorous contrast to his sinister persona.
Walking the Walk: Distinctive Gait
Dottore’s walk stands out. He walks with his chest up and knees bent. His movement is bouncy with small steps. He also uses his hands to create personal space. This description adds to the uniqueness of his character design.
Doctor… But Not That Kind
Lastly, let’s consider the “Doctor” title. “Dottore” means “Doctor.” However, it does not imply a medical degree here. It is likely a title linked to higher education, like a university degree. Think “Doctor of Philosophy” instead of “Medical Doctor.” He is a doctor of morally questionable science, perhaps?
Il Dottore provokes thoughts and feelings. He unsettles and fascinates players. He embodies complex villainy, driven by dangerous ambition. He crosses ethical lines without hesitation. As Genshin Impact’s story unfolds, Dottore’s role remains unpredictable, making him compelling and terrifying.
