10 Video Game Moments So Difficult They Were Just Unfair

9. Viewtiful Joe - The Boss Rush

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Viewtiful Joe is a side-scrolling beat 'em up that was released by Capcom in 2002. Although the game and its sequel didn't sell well, critics praised the series for its humorous banter, gorgeous cel-shaded graphics, and unique fighting mechanics.

But there was one thing that critics and players alike focused on; the difficulty. You see, Capcom has a tendency to make the player fight all the previous bosses in one go before facing the final boss. They do this all the time in the Mega Man series.

Before entering the final level, Viewtiful Joe must face five bosses in a row. Even an experienced player will take at least 30 minutes to complete the Boss Rush. If that sounds like a long time, it gets worse.

There is no checkpoints. If you lose, it's back to the start for you. The game is nice enough to let you purchase upgrades or recover health before facing the fifth boss, Fire Leo, (who is a bloody nightmare). However, you need to face the first four with no breather whatsoever.

Capcom learned from their mistake and allowed the player to save in Viewtiful Joe 2 when the player endures the obligatory Boss Rush near the end.

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James Egan has written 80 books including 1000 Facts about Superheroes Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts about Horror Movies Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts about The Greatest Films Ever Made Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts about Video Games Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts about TV Shows Vol. 1-3 Twitter - @jameswzegan85