10 Hardest Video Game Levels That Required Incredible Skill

2. Murai (Ninja Gaiden)

Now let it be known that the entire Ninja Gaiden series is something of a large wang, so if you've played any of the older 2D iterations, or the 3D sequels from the past few years, substitute your own personal plight-conjuror instead. Regardless of which one you pick though (sans the awful 2012 release) the core tenet of what makes the series so appealing alongside its razor's edge gameplay, is the sense of having to learn the game to progress. 2004's first 3D release expects nothing less from you than absolute devotion; a mantra exemplified by first boss Murai, as he single-handedly turned away thousands of us by being completely unrelenting. A gamer's resolve is something that separates the Dark Soulers from the Candy Crushers, and its also one of the most passionate aspects of what makes the medium such an engaging and devout one. When facing Murai you were either going to turn tail and retreat, or force yourself to get better by learning his animations and studying when to attack. The punishing previous checkpoint set far before his encounter only made things worse, but for that sweet sense of satisfaction you only get when those hours of training finally pay off...there's nothing like it.