10 Video Game Moments That Blew Us Away (Even Though We Saw Them Coming)

2. The Fall - Halo: Reach

Halo: Reach concludes with the Spartans fending off the invading Covenant from the titular planet, which is considered humanity's greatest defence against galactic threats.

Although the last mission of any game should be difficult, Halo Reach makes it crystal clear this one is literally impossible. Considering the mission is called The Fall of Reach, it goes without saying this isn't going to have a happy ending.

Despite the bravery and skill of the Spartans, every effort to repel the Covenant invasion feels futile, creating a sense of hopelessness.  Players have grown attached to these characters throughout the campaign, so seeing them fall one by one underscores the human cost of war.

And it's not just that Spartans that perish in this conflict. Cities are reduced to atoms, military forces are overwhelmed, and civilian casualties are incalculable, reminding players that everyone is affected by this great calamity.

Since Halo: Reach is a prequel, this mission sets the stage for the larger Halo story, adding a layer of narrative tragedy. Reach's fall paves the way for Halo: Combat Evolved, showing that humanity’s fight against evil never truly ends.