Video games are an art form, with levels serving as the fundamental building blocks of interactive experiences. While many games feature brilliant moments, some stand out for offering an entire journey comprised of genuinely masterful stages, leaving players with a lasting impression that calls them back for more. Here are 10 such games across different eras and platforms that are celebrated for their consistently exceptional level design.
The Legend of Zelda (NES)
Released in 1986, the original The Legend of Zelda might appear simplistic by modern standards. However, its foundational designs were groundbreaking for the mid-1980s. Each dungeon featured distinct color palettes to enhance atmosphere, and while the music remained largely consistent, a variety of enemies, environmental hazards, and traps kept the gameplay fresh. The introduction of a second quest with altered layouts and new challenges provided significant replayability.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 (PS1)
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 offered a different kind of level design, focusing on urban environments as playgrounds for executing tricks and scoring points. The compact, well-crafted settings were perfect for skaters to explore, perform complex combos, and unlock new destinations. The thrill of discovering a new location, which promised fresh challenges and opportunities for high scores, was a significant draw. The game later saw a modern remake released for PlayStation 4, PC, and Xbox One.
Mega Man X (SNES)
While early Mega Man titles were notable for their level design, Mega Man X leveraged the Super Nintendo's capabilities to elevate the experience. Following an introductory stage set on a crumbling highway, players navigated through eight distinct robot master stages, with actions in one potentially impacting others. The game showcased remarkable variety, featuring underground mines, waterlogged caverns, towering structures, and frozen landscapes where X could pilot mechs. Capcom is set to launch Mega Man: Dual Override in 2027.
Super Mario Bros. 3 (NES)
Nintendo has a long-standing legacy in level design, and Super Mario Bros. 3 exemplifies this mastery. The game divides its challenges into worlds, complete with overworld maps that allow players to choose their path. Many levels are so engaging that players may choose to replay them even after meeting the progression requirements. Nearly every stage introduces novel mechanics, enemies, or environmental hazards, making it a benchmark for the series' design philosophy.
Celeste (multiplatform)
Celeste, developed by Maddy Makes Games, presents a challenging platforming experience with a focus on player well-being. Early levels immediately introduce demanding set pieces, requiring precise jumps, air dashes, and wall climbs over hazardous terrain. The game builds upon classic platformer design principles, introducing new challenges organically and rewarding player perseverance. Optional collectibles, like the deviously placed strawberries, add an extra layer of difficulty for those seeking a greater challenge.
Astro Bot (PS5)
Team Asobi's Astro Bot is considered a strong contender in the 3D platforming genre. The game is celebrated for its level variety, with stages that evoke the creativity of titles like Super Mario Galaxy. It avoids filler, with each new area offering unique delights and challenges. While optional objectives can be extremely difficult, they cater to a different audience, ensuring that the core experience remains accessible and enjoyable for all platformer enthusiasts.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land (Switch)
Hal Laboratory shifted Kirby's traditional side-scrolling perspective to a 3D one in Kirby and the Forgotten Land. This change allowed for the inclusion of alternate routes, hidden collectibles, and engaging challenges within mostly serene environments. The game adopted a hybrid 3D approach, similar to Super Mario 3D World, which proved highly effective on the Switch. Subsequent DLC further expanded the game with additional levels and content.
Super Monkey Ball (GameCube)
Originally an arcade game before its release as a GameCube launch title, Super Monkey Ball captivated players with its distinct gameplay modes. The main game features numerous tightly designed levels across three difficulty settings. Players guide a monkey in a ball to a goal, collecting bananas along the way. The stages are intentionally brief, encouraging repeated attempts and mastery, with each completed level offering a sense of accomplishment, particularly in the later, more demanding stages.
Pizza Tower (Switch, PC)
Drawing inspiration from games like Wario Land, Pizza Tower offers a unique approach to platforming where survival is not the sole objective. Falling into pits or touching enemies does not result in failure but affects the player's score, encouraging exploration and mastery. Transformations and creative level design encourage players to view obstacles as opportunities. While boss battles may adopt a more traditional health meter, the core level design is widely praised for its replayability and engaging twists.
Battletoads (NES)
Battletoads is notorious for its high difficulty, yet its compelling level design incentivizes players to develop the necessary skills to progress. The game features a wide array of distinct stages, from treacherous pits with snakes to high-speed hoverbike sections over lava and frantic raft rides down rapids. The infamous speeder bike level early in the game serves as a significant hurdle for many players, but memorization and practice can overcome its challenges. The sheer variety and engaging, albeit demanding, gameplay keep players invested.