10 Iconic Tutorial Sections In Video Games

10 Iconic Tutorial Sections In Video Games

As someone who’s spent countless hours immersed in the vast worlds of video games, I have to say that the tutorial sections often get a bad rap. However, upon reflection (and with the wisdom that comes from age), I must admit that some tutorials are downright brilliant. One such example is the tutorial from Kingdom Hearts 2.


Year by year, video games are growing more approachable, offering a wide range of accessibility that lets every player dive into the game of their preference.

These implementations are amazing, but they all stem from one common feature in video games: tutorial levels.

These initial parts often serve as tutorials, starting levels, or entertaining interludes designed to acquaint players with the game’s controls and gameplay mechanics. Yet, they might come off as mandatory, less engaging sections that detract from the main enjoyable aspects of the game.

Instead of traditional learning methods, some games manage to make the educational aspects as enjoyable as the primary gameplay. Let’s then highlight these exceptional tutorials, wouldn’t you agree?

10 Elden Ring

Into The Death Pit, We Go!

10 Iconic Tutorial Sections In Video Games

If your gaming preferences align with mine, it’s likely that you’ll find yourself revisiting Elden Ring frequently, not just to complete it again, but to delve deeper into The Lands Between even after numerous playthroughs.

This game provides an enriched experience in New Game Plus mode and boasts high replay worthiness due to its diverse character builds and gaming styles. One major factor contributing to its appeal for multiple playthroughs is the unobtrusive tutorial, allowing players to dive straight into the gameplay action without any hindrance.

In essence, Elden Ring cleverly positions a potential “tutorial area” near the entrances to the actual beginning of the game. Players have the option to jump into this pit for a simpler experience with easier rewards, or they can choose to proceed directly without engaging in this tutorial-like encounter.

I dislike it when a game makes me, an experienced player, go through the basics again before diving into the core content. However, its thoughtful design that caters to both beginners and veterans is worthy of praise. And, even though you’ll still be defeated by tough opponents, you’ll still have your humbling ‘Dark Souls’ experience as part of the package.

9 Cuphead

Even This Dumb Journalist Can Do It

10 Iconic Tutorial Sections In Video Games

This tutorial serves as an introduction, though it may not be particularly memorable for its content. However, by teaching you how to use each mechanic of the game before jumping straight into the action, it provides an excellent starting point for mastering this Vaudeville-style game.

As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but sing praises about Cuphead, a game that stands out for two captivating aspects: its challenging gameplay and extraordinary, one-of-a-kind artistic flair. These characteristics shine brightly in this masterpiece.

It may take a moment to grasp even the simplest abilities the game demands, but the delightful, sketchbook-style conveyor belt you find yourself on adds an enjoyable prelude to the main challenge ahead.

This game is concise, straightforward, and will ready you for whatever’s ahead. However, keep in mind that dying often is part of the experience.

8 Spiderman 2

Superhero In Training

10 Iconic Tutorial Sections In Video Games

In their own right, the contemporary Spider-Man video games from Marvel feature engaging and straightforward tutorials, as well as thrilling scenes that immerse you directly into the heart of the action.

It’s not surprising at all that we’ve chosen to emphasize the tutorial for Spider-Man 2, as it’s connected to Sam Raimi’s second installment of the Spider-Man Trilogy.

As a fellow enthusiast, I’d love to share my discovery – it’s an engaging guide that equips you with fundamental skills, transforming you into a web-slinging New Yorker akin to everyone’s favorite neighborhood Spider-Man! However, the real spotlight stealer in this production is none other than the charismatic Bruce Campbell.

Bruce has previously used his witty and condescending persona in Spider-Man games, and he was a regular character in the PS1 era versions. However, since Spider-Man 2 is arguably the most notable Spider-Man game that includes him, we decided this instance best fits our criteria.

There’s nothing quite like performing superhuman feats, only for an armchair critic to belittle you. It sounds awful, but it’s actually hilarious and well worth checking out.

7 Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare

“What Kind Of Name Is Soap Anyway?”

10 Iconic Tutorial Sections In Video Games

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but reflect on Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, a game that resonates with many for its thrilling missions led by Captain Price and the iconic “All Ghillied Up” moment. However, there’s one mission that often gets overlooked – the training day mission where Soap prepares his gear before embarking on their inaugural operation. It’s a mission worth revisiting.

This part of the game might seem insignificant to some, but for those who take pride in perfecting their skills and demonstrating their First-Person Shooter expertise, this mission could leave an indelible impression.

As a gamer, I’m diving into this mission, aiming to outrun the clock in a grueling training course designed for the elite operatives of this regiment. My goal? To beat their records and prove my skills on the battlefield.

It’s a fun little mini-game to get lost in that also actively predicts the difficulty level you should play with. A very underrated tutorial, but one I can’t help but shine a spotlight on.

6 RuneScape

Point The Way, Reginald

10 Iconic Tutorial Sections In Video Games

Back in 2001, RuneScape stood out as a trailblazer among MMOs by providing a comprehensive, user-friendly Free-to-Play gaming experience that was years ahead of its contemporaries.

In old times, a legendary game title was what many people with slow, scratchy Internet connections would dive into, and one unforgettable instance was your initial visit to Tutorial Island, where you learned to navigate through this vast, socially oriented adventure for the first time.

As a newcomer on this enchanting isle, I’ve found it to be my personal mentor in survival skills. Here, I’ve mastered the essentials like mining for resources, learning the art of fishing, and more. This magical place equips me with the fundamental gear required for both endurance and prosperity. Furthermore, it delves into the thrilling world of dungeon exploration, adding an exciting layer to my island adventure.

As a devoted fan, I must say, diving into RS again is nothing short of delightful! Admittedly, the modern reboot requires some mental acrobatics when revisiting due to the quest line where Tutorial Island mysteriously sank. Yet, it’s heartening to witness Tutorial Island restored to its former splendor today.

5 The Elder Scrolls: Oblivion

It’s Your Lucky Day, Prisoner

10 Iconic Tutorial Sections In Video Games

Allow me a glimpse of your visage, for you seem familiar, as if plucked from my dreams… When the cosmos aligned, it was foretold that today would be the day… May the gods grant me the fortitude I need.

Does this sound familiar? It ought to be, for it marks the initial occasion when Emperor Uriel Septim, superbly portrayed by Patrick Stewart, speaks directly to you during the early phases of the game “Oblivion“.

Kick off an exciting prison escape guide, where the player stealthily navigates underground sewers and concealed tunnel networks exiting from the Imperial Prison. Notably, this journey involves you in a significant mission to locate the rightful heir to the throne – just another ordinary day in the life of an RPG hero.

This tutorial is exceptionally helpful as it allows for ample room to discover, be creative, and understand the different mechanisms provided. At the same time, it ensures a consistent progression towards the initial significant plot event.

4 Farcry: Blood Dragon

Just Let Me Kill Something!

10 Iconic Tutorial Sections In Video Games

Regardless of our efforts to spotlight top-tier tutorials, it’s undeniable that tutorials themselves can serve as pesky barriers, hindering immediate engagement and unrestricted enjoyment. This is a challenge that Farcry: Blood Dragon, an add-on for Farcry 3, has keen insight into.

In essence, this guide assumes a beginner’s level of understanding, guiding you step by step through fundamental actions, while your on-screen character consistently expresses an intense will to eliminate any and all nearby entities.

Suddenly, when it seems the game might be easing up, you find yourself overwhelmed by a succession of tutorial interfaces. These interfaces resemble pop-up ads, with some promoting additional in-game items, and even advertising a premium service that claims to play the game on your behalf.

Essentially, this content is a humorous take on the annoyance of tutorials, yet it effectively provides a comprehensive overview for those needing a basic understanding. In other words, it’s a win-win situation, where humor and learning coexist.

3 Kingdom Hearts 2

Wait. You’re Not Sora!

10 Iconic Tutorial Sections In Video Games

Despite potential disagreements among some, I firmly believe that upon reflection, the tutorial in Kingdom Hearts 2 deserves acknowledgement for its outstanding brilliance.

Several individuals expressed concerns that the title seemed to place you in an enigmatic character instead of Sora, which wasn’t your intention. Additionally, some found the tutorial excessively lengthy, clocking in at about two hours. However, it’s important to note that this tutorial was packed with a multitude of tasks.

The game had to smoothly connect the storyline given the presence of Chain of Memories and 358/2 Days. It also aimed to make you empathetic towards Roxas and his companions, provide a basic understanding of Organization XIII for less experienced players, introduce new game mechanics, and deliver an immersive, diverse gaming experience.

This tutorial successfully tackled a challenging subject, creating a memorable backdrop with Twilight Town and delivering a touching, personal narrative about Roxas and Namine. While it has drawn some criticism, I find myself in agreement with its inclusion here.

2 Dark Souls

You Died

10 Iconic Tutorial Sections In Video Games

after teaching the fundamentals, it confines you in a room with a massive boss and challenges you to fight.

Back in 2011, Dark Souls taught us an essential lesson by having players face the Asylum Demon with a weak starting equipment. The game made it clear that you should expect to die frequently.

In the Undead Asylum, players learn the core elements that are characteristic of the Souls series, including the use of bonfires as checkpoints, battling formidable bosses, navigating through treacherous environments, engaging in devious environmental traps, and interacting with non-player characters.

While providing a delightful taste of things to follow without lingering excessively, it’s worth noting that this tutorial offered some assistance, even though no preparation could fully ready you for the challenges of Undead Burg and the journeys beyond.

1 Fallout 3

Tunnel Snakes Rule!

10 Iconic Tutorial Sections In Video Games

While I’ve always been a New Vegas man through and through, you can’t deny that Fallout 3 has a sublime opening section, acting as a seamless tutorial before setting you loose on the Capital Wasteland. This tutorial literally has you play as a little sprout that can barely toddle to a full grown adult.

In this game, you’ll encounter numerous unforgettable non-player characters, make crucial choices that will impact your future encounters, and enjoy the added benefit of interacting with Liam Neeson – a great perk indeed!

Due to its distinctive structure that combines explanation and real-time gameplay, and the gradual unveiling of essential features, it functions as an enjoyable tutorial rather than a tedious task during repetitions. It seems less like a mandatory duty and more like a thrilling initial mission.

Bethesda may have its issues, but it’s always been good for a strong opening.

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2024-09-25 13:39