GameRevolution:
I don't know about you, but the way a game begins is nearly as important to me as how the experience resolves before the credits roll (some, even after). A solid introduction—whether that be through a gorgeous cinematic, enthralling gameplay moment, or a combination of both—not only gives the player an incredible first impression, but fuels their curiosity and desire to dive deeper into the experience.
It's not easy to craft a compelling opener, but the eleven games we've selected truly exceed in this area. NOTE: In favor of giving as many franchises as possible a moment in the spotlight, we've limited our selections to one game per series. Otherwise, this list would have likely been dominated by all of Mr. Kojima's handiwork.
Games Asylum: "Well, this is neat. As the name suggests, Wrath of the Mutants is the rarest of things – a genuine arcade conversion. With most modern arcade games being ticket redemption machines, this is something seldom seen. In fact, the last arcade conversion we can recall was Raw Thrill’s own Cruis’n’ Blast on Switch back in 2021. This is also based on an older iteration of TMNT, harking back to the series from 2012-2017. It’s essentially breaking franchise continuity (we’ve had two different iterations of the Turtles since) and could even be considered nostalgic for a select few – those who grew up with 2012’s Turtles are probably in their late teens."
Fuse ARPG, Soulslike, and cozy crafting mechanics for a one-of-a-kind adventure. Here is The Nerd Stash's early impressions of No Rest for the Wicked.
Starship Troopers: Extermination is continuing its early access period with a class system overhaul that will give players more options when it comes to pushing back the bugs.
It must be frustrating for these devs to see Helldivers 2 absolutely devour their lunch lol
-Oh my God, this game looks like a complete rip-off of Helldivers II!
-At least it gives Xbox players the chance to experience something similar to the PlayStation game!
Jokes aside it does make you wonder why Sony, who owns the IP for both, is continuing with two products when there is such overlap. Should it one day make a new Starship Troopers film or a Helldivers film instead?
Nice choices! I agree, these are all games that when you put them in and that opening sequence plays, you just get so stoked to be playing that game.
The first that comes to mind for me is Final Fantasy VIII
Watching some of these gave me chills. I remember these games so vividly. My favorite on the list has to be Mass Effect 2. Stepping into the vacuum was just jaw-dropping, especially with the sound cranked up.
What about God of War 2 and Kratos's attack on the city followed by the multi tiered Colossus fight? How could you not mention that?
The Kingdom Hearts 1 intro is still my favorite intro of all time. There is just something special about it. I still watch it on youtube occasionally just because of how great it was.