
In the realm of video games, encountering death is a common experience. Game developers often utilize character fatalities as teaching moments, allowing players to learn from their mistakes. Generally, players acknowledge their missteps with a nod of understanding, recognizing that failures contribute to their overall skill development.
However, not all in-game deaths are fair or the result of player error. Some titles employ frustrating design choices that result in unforeseen fatalities, leading players to feel unjustly punished. To trigger some nostalgic (or perhaps painful) memories, we’ve compiled a list of ten notorious cheap deaths in gaming that have left an impression on players.
10 Death by Spikes
Blasphemous
We begin with a classic trope familiar to many 2D platformers and Metroidvania games, exemplified by Blasphemous. While spikes are a well-known hazard, most developers are lenient, allowing players to merely lose health and teleport to a nearby checkpoint after falling into them. However, Blasphemous is less forgiving; a fall into spikes results in instant death with no second chances. Thankfully, the sequel addressed this issue, providing a more accessible experience for newcomers, yet those who tackled the original title know the frustration all too well.
9 Spawn Kills
Call of Duty
This concept permeates nearly all online multiplayer shooters, but Call of Duty, particularly on maps like Rust and Shipment, exemplifies this issue perfectly. Being crowded into a tight map while a player preys on you as you respawn can lead to a frustrating cycle of instant deaths. Moreover, players equipped with perks like Last Stand add to the agony of incessant failures, turning victories into hollow achievements.
8 Nellis Air Force Base
Fallout: New Vegas
In Fallout: New Vegas, exploration is rich and rewarding, with a soundtrack of Big Iron playing in the background as players roam the wasteland. However, not every location offers a warm welcome. Nellis Air Force Base stands out as a perilous zone where failure to converse with nearby NPCs can result in an abrupt end, bombarded by incoming mortar shells from above, turning players into nothing more than a fine mist.
7 The World’s Most Uncomfortable Chair
Disco Elysium
While not a ‘death’ in the traditional sense, the game over caused by an uncomfortable chair can feel just as grim. In Disco Elysium, players face a comical yet frustrating demise due to an ill-fated encounter with Mr. Evrart. If players lack the correct attributes, this chair can drain health, resulting in an explosive exit from the game. Though humorous, it can be quite infuriating, especially after a long session without any recent saves.
6 The Rat Swarm
A Plague’s Tale Series
There is an unfortunate lack of recognition for the gripping A Plague’s Tale series, yet the game has resonated with players, particularly due to its infamous rat swarms. Players navigate a world plagued by these ferocious rodents, and a single misstep outside the protective light of a torch can lead to a gruesome demise, showcasing the game’s zero-tolerance policy for mistakes amidst its intricate environmental puzzles.
5 Eye Surgery
Dead Space 2
In Dead Space 2, players encounter a harrowing eye surgery scenario under duress from necromorph attacks. Isaac Clarke must perform the delicate operation himself while dealing with overwhelming panic. A failed attempt can result in excruciating violence, including losing his eye completely, leading to immediate death. It’s a scene that is particularly grueling on higher difficulty levels, leaving players feeling both frustrated and disturbed.
4 The Reaper
Persona 5
In the strategic world of Persona 5, time is of the essence, requiring players to make every moment count. However, the pressure intensifies within Mementos, where the presence of The Reaper lurks. Overstaying on a particular floor would summon this formidable foe, resulting in almost certain annihilation for unprepared players. While defeating The Reaper is possible, many players find themselves fleeing its ominous shadow for most of their adventures.
3 Jackal Snipers
Halo 2
Throughout gaming, sniper sections often frustrate players, but few are more notorious than the Jackal Snipers in Halo 2. These agile enemies boast pinpoint accuracy, making it exceptionally challenging to navigate levels without suffering instant deaths. Their omnipresence contributes to an experience where skill alone may not suffice, ultimately diminishing the enjoyment of playing on higher difficulties.
2 Deadly Power-ups
DOOM
In DOOM, player deaths often stem from insidious traps, particularly involving power-ups. While these items are designed to enhance gameplay, picking one up can trigger ambushes or various traps that lead players into dangerous situations. Thus, power-ups that should be beneficial can unfortunately become lethal; it’s a grim reminder that in this game, anything can turn against you.
1 Mimic Chests
Dark Souls
Last but not least, we must address the infamous Mimic Chests from the Dark Souls series. These deceptive traps appear as regular treasure chests, luring players with promises of loot, only to violently attack upon opening. Not only do they pose a serious threat to unprepared players, but they also add a layer of tension and suspense to exploration, a hallmark of the series that has become iconic among its fanbase.
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