8 Games With Awesome First Levels

Thanks to Escapist community member Barbas for starting the thread! Think we missed one? Tell us what it is in the comments! Devil May Cry 3 First mentioned by bliebblob Devil May Cry 3 is all about dropping you into the thick of things right of the gate. After watching the opening cutscene, you’re dropped into a room with your weapons and a slew of enemies already posed in the positions you saw them in when the cutscene ended. Don’t hesitate, or you’ll find yourself losing heath quickly. Hope you’re ready for it. While you might think of the first level of Deus Ex: Human Revolution as the prologue where Adan Jensen isn’t augmented yet, the first level is really your initial mission after he returns from his near-death experience. It’s a solid effort, combining instructions on how to use your augments to proceed, as well as demonstrating all the possible ways to approach the level, be it stealth, head-on assault, or a combination of the two. Unlike many early levels, you can make meaningful choices about how you proceed, and if you spend too much time goofing off in the level, it can have a surprising effect on the outcome. Any level that starts you off with an encounter with Patrick Stewart is going to be a good one. After the Emperor escapes through your cell, you’ll find your way through the sewers. As you progress, you’ll learn more mechanics, gather more gear, and fight more enemies. Once you make your way through, you emerge into the wilds. While they may not look amazing by today’s standards, in 2006 that wilderness was mind-blowing. You’ll continue to grow and learn throughout your adventure, but you’re set on your path perfectly by a great first level.