Most video game enthusiasts dislike having their hands held, which is why tutorial sections aren’t exactly popular in games. It’s much more fun to jump in and start the action, not have every game mechanic over-explained. Most games aren’t rocket science, after all.
However, while many games skip over hand-holding, some are exceptional at introducing players to mechanics in an engaging way. These tutorials, while rare, stand out as iconic and memorable parts of the gaming experience. They’re not just informative but also manage to create fun, often becoming an integral part of the overall game. Here are 10 of the most iconic tutorials in video games:
10. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Sticks to the Franchise Prisoner Tradition
Skyrim opens with the Dragonborn, shackled and on the chopping block, only for chaos to erupt when Alduin, a mighty dragon, attacks. This serves as an introduction to the game’s basics, such as movement, combat, sneaking, and lock-picking. The cinematic escape from the town sets the stage for the expansive open-world adventure ahead. Despite being iconic, the tutorial is a bit long-winded, and many players opt for mods to skip it on subsequent playthroughs.
9. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Introduces Players to a Massive World Without Overwhelming Them
In Breath of the Wild, players are introduced to the game’s vast world gradually, starting with a small area where they can learn basic mechanics like movement, climbing, and combat. The beauty of the tutorial is its freedom—players can explore the environment at their own pace, discovering crafting and cooking systems along the way. Though it’s relatively new, its approach to tutorial design has been praised as an ideal model for large open-world games.
8. Grand Theft Auto V
North Yankton Introduces Major Mechanics Organically
The prologue of Grand Theft Auto V sets the stage during a heist in North Yankton. Here, players learn combat, driving, and the exclusive character-switching mechanic in a thrilling, fast-paced environment. Unlike other tutorials, this is woven into the narrative, ensuring that the player feels invested in both the story and the gameplay. The mission is a key part of the game’s opening and never feels redundant, even on replay.
7. Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare
Hone Your Skills Before Going to War
When Modern Warfare was released, it introduced revolutionary mechanics like aiming down sights (ADS) and crouching to improve weapon accuracy. The game’s “training day” mission was a fun and dynamic way to teach these new mechanics, setting a standard for modern FPS tutorials. Players were tested through a gauntlet and earned high scores, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
6. Star Wars: The Force Unleashed
Uses Vader to Teach the Ways of the Force
Unlike many action RPGs that introduce basic controls before stripping the player of abilities, The Force Unleashed flips the script by starting with the power of Darth Vader. As the player learns the mechanics of combat and Force powers, they take control of the powerful Sith Lord. The intensity of the opening sets the tone for the rest of the game, and when the player finally controls Galen Marek, the journey feels both thrilling and rewarding.
5. Assassin’s Creed II
Ezio Before He Became an Assassin
In Assassin’s Creed II, players are introduced to Ezio Auditore as a young, carefree nobleman rather than an experienced assassin. Through various interactions and races, players learn traversal, combat, and stealth mechanics. The tutorial is immersive and fun, making Ezio one of the most beloved protagonists in the series, and ensuring the player understands the expanded mechanics introduced in this sequel.
4. Fallout 3
A Lesson on How to Grow Up Fast and Survive the Wasteland
_ Fallout 3_ takes a unique approach by starting with the player’s birth, teaching basic actions like movement, dialogue, and combat as the protagonist matures. This allows the player to naturally ease into the game’s complex mechanics while feeling emotionally connected to the character. The combination of personal growth and the survival aspects of the wasteland makes this tutorial truly iconic.
3. Dark Souls
Throwing the Player in at the Deep End
_ Dark Souls_ is infamous for its difficulty, and the tutorial area doesn’t shy away from this. The first area provides the player with helpful hints on basic movements and actions, but it soon escalates when a powerful enemy—the Asylum Demon—appears unexpectedly. This sudden challenge teaches players that failure is part of the experience and encourages them to learn and adapt. The unforgiving nature of the tutorial makes it one of the most memorable in gaming.
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