Best opening level

[slowslow325]

I don't think he is talking about FPS when he says shooter.

There are three main types of shooters, FPSs, Run n' Guns, and SHMUPS. He may not be talking about that, but they're still justified in saying FPSs.

LOOK AT THE TITLE AND DESCRIPTION OF THIS SUB-FORUM

Well I always considered SHMUPS 2D shooters like Gradius or Galaxian and Run n' Guns 2D shooters like Contra and Gunstar Heroes.

Based on the description run n' guns are SHMUPS, but based on what most people on this site go by, they're different.

Therefore, the OP originally only said "The opening level of SHOOTERS are important to me" and he also mentioned a run n' gun. FPS's are considered shooters to me (first person SHOOTERS).

But, above all, the opening level of FPSs is just as important as 2D shooters, so we might as well include them.

Anyway, if you could possibly consider it a Run n' Gun, Super Metroid had a great opening level.

[Mr.White555]

Star Fox's Corneria levels were always great. The snes one's music really got me going.

This topic makes me think of how with a lot of games 2nd levels are garbage like Contra III's or Ranger X's.

[Gamerforlife]

Star Fox's Corneria levels were always great. The snes one's music really got me going.

I was actually thinking about that too. Those levels were really well done

[Para]

I would say the intro level to Raiden 2 is very good. It isn't all that challenging but it is long and diverse, and shows you a little preview of what you're getting yourself into. There is A LOT of detail and small things in it and fighting the giant walking robot at the end is pretty memorable. This is the first level you see and the only level some people see, so I think it has a pretty big impact on setting the tone for the rest of the game and giving a player a positive first impression.
Raiden 2 is awesome.

[8bit]

Ikaruga gets me going from the get-go! The rumble of the xbox360 pad and the music really sets the tone right away!