Most Iconic Starter Towns In Video Games

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Summary

  • Small towns like Riverwood in Skyrim offer nostalgia, easy quests, and tranquil vibes to players.
  • Pallet Town in Pokemon Red & Blue is a humble starting point, symbolizing the charm of “humble beginnings.”
  • Goodsprings in Fallout: New Vegas provides a safe haven with generous inhabitants and fresh water for players in the harsh wasteland.

As a seasoned gamer with decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the first few levels or areas in video games have always held a special place in my heart. They serve as training grounds, tutorials, and a chance to immerse ourselves in the game’s world before being thrown into the deep end.

As a movie buff, I’d say that for many of us, there’s a childhood home etched deeply into our memories. Whether it’s still standing, dramatically transformed, or tragically lost like the hero’s humble abode in a classic fantasy tale, these places never truly fade away; they continue to reside within us, playing an integral role in shaping who we are today.

Video games often feature iconic starting locations that help players grasp the basics, understand the early mechanics, and grow accustomed to the unique behavior of non-player characters (NPCs), which can vary based on when the game was released.

Riverwood – The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim

A Friendly Town That Doesn’t Get Immediately Destroyed

Just as any Skyrim player finds themselves naturally drawn towards the stealth archer role (since sneak-attacking enemies from afar is often the only way to triumph in battles, stealth abilities are excessively overpowered, and because being stealthy is the most efficient skill for all factions), it takes a lot of conscious effort to resist making a visit to this tranquil little village at the beginning of a new game: Riverwood.

On your journey ahead, you’ll find three monumental stones worth a visit; it would be a pity to pass them by without claiming their rewards. Additionally, there’s treasure from Helgen that needs to be offloaded. A nearby dungeon offers an easy conquest as well. Moreover, the warmth of a Nord home is hard to resist, and who wouldn’t welcome such hospitality? Riverwood has a soothing atmosphere and friendly residents – unless you happen to slaughter one cherished chicken there, then chaos ensues!

Pallet Town – Pokemon Red & Blue

It May Only Be Three Buildings And A Patch Of Grass, But It’s Home

Pallet Town, much like a typical video game introductory locale, provides players with an appropriate introduction to the world of Pokémon without swamping them. With merely a few structures and a population that could easily be accommodated on a single bus (since no motorized vehicles can manage the tall grass obstructing the sole exit route), it beautifully embodies the appeal of “simple origins.

Among the numerous notable starter towns in Pokemon, Pallet Town holds a special place as one of the most iconic. Its name, derived from the concept of a “clean slate,” foreshadows the array of color-themed towns and various Pokémon that players will discover on their adventure. The town’s motto itself, “Shades of your journey lie ahead,” seems oddly precise.

Ordon Village

Getting A Long Farewell To The Comforts of Home

In several aspects, Twilight Princess can be considered a more mature rendition of Ocarina of Time. This is due to its themes and storyline that cater to an older audience, while still retaining elements reminiscent of childhood enchantment. Both games share a commonality as they both feature adult Link in a starting location similar to Ocarina, serving as a secure base for players to learn the game mechanics.

While Kokiri Village maintains a sense of timelessness and surrealism, as if nothing has changed since your departure despite everyone remaining childlike, Ordon Village appears inhabited, rustic, and somewhat livelier. This could be due to the influence of Nintendo legend Shigeru Miyamoto, who made last-minute adjustments to the opening sequence, adding about three days’ worth of tutorial content that offers a more gradual introduction to the game, allowing players to interact extensively with Ordon’s endearing residents.

Goodsprings – Fallout: New Vegas

The Ideal Place To Get Shot In The Face And Buried Alive

In Fallout: New Vegas, The Wasteland is relentlessly harsh, even at its most benign. Yet, it’s the kindness of Goodsprings’ residents that sets this oasis apart amidst a barren sea of suffering. A doctor graciously revives the Courier after a near-death fall, and everyone in town seems eager to assist the newcomer in getting back on their feet.

Despite facing some challenges like wear and tear, occasional attacks, and setbacks, Goodsprings retains its quaint allure. It’s resilient; no matter what adversity it encounters, it manages to recover. Moreover, as its name suggests, it provides an abundance of fresh water – a valuable resource that Fallout players on Hardcore Mode will truly value.

Seyda Neen – The Elder Scrolls 3: Morrowind

Thick With Intrigue But Easy To Leave Behind

The “Elder Scrolls” series boasts numerous openings that have become popular and unforgettable among fans. Many who grew up with Morrowind will likely recall the initial dialogue from Jub, the Imperial guards, and Socucius Ergalla, just as those familiar with Skyrim can recite its opening speech. Character creation concludes once players leave Seyda Neen, but it is this town that truly marks the start of the game, effectively setting the stage for what lies ahead in the player’s journey.

In the game ‘Morrowind’, the character Fargoth and his enigmatic ring serve as an instructive tool for players, demonstrating the impact of choices made during quests, trading, and general decision-making. The game designers show remarkable self-control and respect for player autonomy by not compelling participants to participate in the town’s drama, such as the disappearance of the tax collector and his lover, Fargoth’s hidden activities, the nearby slave den, or Vodunius’ predicament. Instead, players are free to casually stroll past it all, choosing to delve deeper only if they find a particular story intriguing.

Oakvale – Fable

The Ideal Place To Grow Up And Learn Some Hard Life Lessons

Video games with an epic storyline often focus on providing players a sense of advancement. For instance, Fable stands out among many due to its unique element – the character’s growth from childhood to maturity, which significantly impacts the choices players make and shapes their characters.

Absolutely, it’s crucial that the peaceful town of Oakvale, which later experiences a terrible event that triggers the plot, is portrayed as ideal before its destruction. Oakvale functions as a perfect learning ground where players can accomplish tasks for their annoying neighbors and gradually get accustomed to gameplay.

Outset Island – The Legend Of Zelda: Windwaker

May As Well Be Called “Get Off Your Hiney Isle”

In Wind Waker, the initial island could be one of the most straightforwardly indicative “tutorial zones” in gaming. Known as Outset Island, this idyllic location boasts lush vegetation, quaint dwellings, soothing tunes, and an unexpectedly active community given its small resident count.

This tranquil spot appears ideal for a family to spend their days fishing, venturing around, and carefully navigating the bridges linking its towering cliffs. Despite its serene appearance, Outset Island is about to face turmoil as a colossal squawking bird arrives, and Link’s sister Aryll gets kidnapped. This initiates Link’s transition from his calm, rural existence into an epic seafaring journey in the game Wind Waker.

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2024-12-19 03:35