5 Hardest Games That Make Everyone Rage Quit the First Level

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Look, for years, games were all about fun and getting us to feed them quarters. Then it shifted to fun, but also making us pay more with each new console. We kinda just accepted that. But every now and then, a game comes along that’s just brutally hard – the kind where you want to throw your controller after just a few minutes, even on the first level! It happens with good games and bad ones, and I’ve put together five of them here, in no specific order.

1) Contra – NES

Contra is often considered one of the best games for the NES, but it’s notoriously hard. Many players relied on the Konami Code to get 30 extra lives, which made finishing the game achievable. But have you ever tried playing the first level without it? It’s an incredibly challenging, chaotic experience where even skilled players usually die repeatedly when facing the boss. While beating the game without the code is possible, most players find it too difficult, and many likely gave up on the first level before discovering the code.

2) Dragon’s Lair – NES

The original Dragon’s Lair arcade game was impressive for its graphics and programming, but it was notoriously challenging. While playable, the NES version was significantly harder. The controls were poor, making it nearly impossible to guide Dirk the Daring through the levels, as even small errors led to failure. The very first section, crossing a drawbridge, was so difficult that dying felt like an intended part of the game. Many players gave up in frustration because progressing past the drawbridge was incredibly tough, making the game ultimately not very enjoyable.

3) Superman 64 – Nintendo 64

Superman 64 isn’t just a terrible Superman game – it’s considered one of the hardest games ever made. It starts with a frustratingly difficult timed level where you fly Superman through rings. The controls are so clunky that even completing this first stage feels almost impossible, especially with the constantly ticking clock. Many players never even made it past this initial challenge, and those who did found the subsequent levels were just as bad – level 3 even repeats the same frustrating gameplay as level 1. It’s a truly awful game, and it’s baffling that it was ever released.

4) Cuphead – Multiple

Released in 2017, Cuphead is a challenging run-and-gun game with a distinctive retro style. It intentionally draws inspiration from classic games in the genre, meaning it’s known for being difficult – so much so that many players find the very first level surprisingly hard! While it’s definitely not unbeatable, Cuphead often takes players by surprise with its demanding gameplay. Despite the initial challenge, it’s a truly excellent game. If you persevere, you’ll discover one of the best in the genre, featuring a fantastic soundtrack, gorgeous animation, and a whole lot more to enjoy.

5) Ninja Gaiden – NES

Ninja Gaiden is a fantastic game and launched a successful series, but it’s notoriously difficult. From the very beginning, the game throws a serious challenge at players. The first level is packed with ninjas and enemies, demanding constant button presses that can quickly tire your hand. It’s safe to say most players didn’t beat the first level on their first try. While it teaches you how to play, it also warns you that the rest of the game will be a relentless, fast-paced battle.

What game frustrated you so much you quit right at the beginning? Share your experience in the comments below and join the discussion on the ComicBook Forum!

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2026-03-22 19:40