Ah, the wacky world of science fiction and fantasy novels! It’s like a costume party for characters, and everyone’s invited, from your typical hero next door to the villain who thinks wearing a cape is business casual. So, here we go, diving into the cosmic pool of characters with more quirks than a bag of talking space squirrels. Here are five of the usual suspects you’ll bump into on this literary rollercoaster:

Heroes Templates:

1. The Chosen One: This hero is often prophesized or selected by fate to save the world or defeat a great evil. They typically have unique powers, a special destiny, or an exceptional skill that sets them apart. Example: Harry Potter
2. The Reluctant Hero: Unlike the eager Chosen One, the Reluctant Hero is thrust into the role of saving the day against their will. They often start as ordinary individuals but rise to the occasion due to circumstances or a sense of duty. Example: Bilbo Baggins
3. The Anti-Hero: These heroes don’t fit the traditional mold. They may have morally ambiguous traits, a dark past, or a tendency to do whatever it takes to achieve their goals, even if it means bending the rules. Example: Giralt of Rivera (The Witcher Series)}
4. The Mentor: This character guides and trains the main hero, passing on knowledge and wisdom. They often have a mysterious or mythical background and are crucial to the hero’s development. Example: Gandalf 
5. The Team: In many science fiction and fantasy stories, the hero isn’t an individual but a group or ensemble of characters with complementary skills and personalities. Each member plays a vital role in achieving the story’s goals. Example: The Fellowship of the Ring.

Villains:

1. The Overlord: This classic villain seeks power, control, and domination. They may be a tyrant, an evil ruler, or a malevolent force with grand ambitions.  Example: Emperor Ming the Merciless (Flash Gordon)
2. The Dark Sorcerer/Wizard: Often found in fantasy novels, this villain wields dark magic and uses spells, curses, or arcane knowledge to further their evil schemes.  Example: Lord Voldemort (Tom Riddle)
3. The Mastermind: A cunning and intelligent adversary who plans meticulously, manipulating events from behind the scenes. They are often the puppeteers pulling the strings of lesser villains.  Example: The Borg Collective
4. The Fallen Hero: This tragic antagonist was once a hero or a good character but has been corrupted or turned to the dark side. Their internal struggle adds depth to the story.  Example: Darth Vader (Anakin Skywalker)
5. The Alien Threat: In science fiction, especially space opera, the villain may be an extraterrestrial race or entity with advanced technology, hostile intentions, and a desire to conquer or destroy humanity. Example: The Borg Collective