10 Perfect Examples Of Level Design In Video Games
7. Snowpeak Ruins (Legend Of Zelda: Twilight Princess)
Twilight Princess is arguably a disappointment in terms of story and gameplay (according to some, at least), but it’s elevated by the quality of its dungeons, several of which rank among the best in the series.
In particular, Snowpeak Ruins – a manor located
on the peak of a descending gorge – is among the most memorable, consisting of
three floors, numerous smaller locations restricted by ice, several variations
of enemies, and a master bedroom on the third floor.
What’s especially great about the dungeon – besides its excellent level design – is that it’s structured to tell a story. Throughout, you’re guided through the various rooms by a couple of yetis who happen to reside in the mansion – an ageing couple forced to occupy only a small portion of their original home.
As you progress, uncovering more of the dungeon in the process, you become gradually acquainted with them, as well as their personal backstories. In this respect, the dungeon – packed with puzzles and enemies – is more than a simple challenge, but an exploration of two very specific characters, and is subsequently designed with those particular characters in mind.
It functions on two entirely separate levels, the design emphasising aspects of each.