As video games continue to evolve and become more complex, beating them is no small feat. From the classic challenges of the 8-bit era to the modern open-world epics, there’s always something new to conquer. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most difficult video games ever made, and explore the strategies and tactics that players have used to overcome them.

Understanding Difficulty Levels in Video Games

Before we dive into specific games, it’s important to understand what makes a game “difficult”. While there are no hard-and-fast rules for this, there are some common elements that can make a game more challenging:

• Complexity of game mechanics



• Speed and timing
• Environmental hazards
• Unpredictability
• Difficulty scaling

Now that we have a better understanding of what makes a game difficult let’s take a closer look at some of the most challenging video games ever made.

The Most Difficult Video Games Ever Made

1. Demon’s Souls (2009)

Demon’s Souls is widely considered to be one of the hardest video games ever made, thanks in large part to its innovative “Souls” system. In this game, players have a limited number of “souls” that they can lose before being forced to start over from scratch. Losing souls also means losing all of their equipment and progress, making each attempt even more challenging.

To beat Demon’s Souls, players need to master a variety of skills and techniques, including timing, positioning, and strategic thinking. The game features a wide range of enemies, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses, which means that players need to constantly adapt their strategies and tactics to keep up.

2. Super Mario Bros. 2 (1985)

Super Mario Bros. 2 is another game that is widely considered to be one of the hardest video games ever made, thanks in large part to its innovative level design. The game features a variety of challenging levels, each with its own unique mechanics and obstacles.

To beat Super Mario Bros. 2, players need to master a variety of skills, including timing, precision, and strategic thinking. The game also features a variety of power-ups and items that can help players overcome difficult challenges, but these are often located in the most challenging parts of the levels.

3. Godot (2014)

Godot is a 2D platformer game that is known for its challenging levels and innovative gameplay mechanics. The game features a variety of enemies and obstacles, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses, which means that players need to constantly adapt their strategies to stay ahead.

To beat Godot, players need to master a variety of skills, including timing, precision, and strategic thinking. The game also features a variety of power-ups and items that can help players overcome difficult challenges, but these are often located in the most challenging parts of the levels.

4. Dark Souls (2011)

Dark Souls is another game that is widely considered to be one of the hardest ever made, thanks in large part to its innovative “Souls” system. Like Demon’s Souls, Dark Souls features a limited number of “souls” that players can lose before being forced to start over from scratch. Losing souls also means losing all of their equipment and progress, making each attempt even more challenging.

To beat Dark Souls, players need to master a variety of skills and techniques, including timing, positioning, and strategic thinking. The game features a wide range of enemies, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses, which means that players need to constantly adapt their strategies to stay ahead.

5. Conan Exiles (2016)

Conan Exiles is an open-world survival game that is known for its challenging environmental hazards and unpredictable enemies. The game takes place in the world of Conan, a popular fantasy franchise, and features a variety of dangerous creatures and treacherous terrain.

To beat Conan Exiles, players need to master a variety of skills, including survival, combat, and strategic thinking. The game also features a variety of power-ups and items that can help players overcome difficult challenges, but these are often located in the most challenging parts of the world.

Strategies for Beating Difficult Video Games

Now that we’ve looked at some of the most challenging video games ever made, let’s take a closer look at some strategies and tactics that players have used to overcome them.

1. Practice makes perfect

The first and most obvious strategy for beating difficult video games is to practice. Players need to spend time playing the game, learning its mechanics and patterns, and honing their skills.

2. Break down the problem into smaller parts

When faced with a particularly challenging level or boss fight, it can be helpful to break down the problem into smaller, more manageable parts. This might involve identifying the most dangerous enemies or obstacles, developing strategies to overcome them, and then combining those strategies to take on the entire challenge.

3. Use resources wisely

Many video games feature a variety of resources that can help players overcome challenges. These might include power-ups, items, or special abilities that can be used to gain an advantage in combat or navigation. To beat difficult games, players need to use these resources wisely, carefully considering which ones will be most useful in each situation.

4. Learn from failure

One of the best ways to improve at a difficult game is to learn from failure. This might involve analyzing what went wrong during a particular level or boss fight, and then developing strategies to avoid making the same mistakes in the future. It can also be helpful to seek out advice and guidance from more experienced players, who can offer valuable insights and tips for overcoming challenges.

5. Take breaks and rest

Finally, it’s important to remember that beating difficult video games is not a sprint, but a marathon. Players need to take breaks, rest, and recharge in order to maintain their focus and energy levels. This might involve stepping away from the game for a few minutes to clear your head, or taking a longer break to come back to the game with fresh eyes and renewed determination.

Summary

Beating difficult video games is not an easy task, but it can be incredibly rewarding. By practicing, breaking down problems into smaller parts, using resources wisely, learning from failure, and taking breaks, players can overcome even the most challenging levels and boss fights. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting out, there’s always something new to learn and master in the world of video games.