10 Most Breathtaking ‘First Time’ Video Game Moments

9. Defeating The Bell Gargoyles In Dark Souls

This entry could potentially be replaced by the Tower Knight in Demons' Souls, depending on which game you played first, but the Bell Gargoyles of Dark Souls are the first boss battle where the game really comes good on its notorious reputation, and pummels you until you almost can't take any more. The fight is hard, harsh and majestic thanks to its church-top setting and spectacular music. Just as you think you've nailed how to beat the one gargoyle, another swoops down into the fray, and it could take scores of attempts to defeat them. It's one of those crucial points in the game (and there are several) where many people will just give up, but if you keep fighting, keep dying, and subsequently keep learning, you'll eventually break through this disproportionately hard encounter. As soon as that second gargoyle dissipates into the air and the gold message saying 'Victory Achieved' appears, you'll want to cry from relief and exhaustion. The significance of the moment is amplified in hindsight, because it's at this point that you realise you can handle Dark Souls - that you're willing to power on through soul-crushing adversity and keep going. In a way, it's a test of your conviction as a gamer who enjoys a good challenge, which you successfully passed, and can now go on prepared for the rest of what lies ahead in this excellent series.