10 Best Video Game Levels Of The Decade

9. Crossing Into Mexico - Red Dead Redemption

It's hard to pin down what a "level" is in an open-world game, but let's go with a general "set-piece", as everyone remembers Red Dead's iconic crossing from North America down into Mexico.

Coming after you've assaulted Fort Mercer and raised the general level of heat around John Marston considerably, you partner up with character Irish and make for the border.

Hunkering down on what amounts to a raft with a handful of crates for cover, it's here where bullets start raining your way, as Irish notes there are "one or two bounties" on his head, for reasons unknown.

The whole level then turns into a notably frenetic and intense "last stand"-type situation, as although your raft is bobbing down the river, you're still a sitting duck for enemies to secure every angle of fire around you.

Finally making it through nets you a complete tonal shift for the better, as John rides into Mexico alone, with only Jose Gonzalez' gorgeously acoustic "So Far Away" for company in the background.