15 Best Opening Levels In Gaming History

13. World 1-1 - Super Mario Bros.

With the countless spin-offs, sequels and 3D versions of Mario that now exist, the first Super Mario Bros. might seem a little simple, even redundant, yet despite its now-rudimentary graphics, the game still plays as slickly as ever, and will forever be a popular platformer for youngsters and adults alike. Few of us will be able to forget the first time we played World 1-1: the iconic Mario theme, the jumping and coin sound effects, the Goombas, the mushroom, Starman and Fire Flower power-ups, the hidden bricks, and so on. By modern standards it may not be cinematic or particularly challenging (it can be beaten in a minute or two), but any gamer worth their salt has played the level and no doubt marveled at the brilliance of the design and iconic staples which would be forever associated with the character.
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Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes). General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.