Mass Effect 2
“I’ll see you in the next life, old friend.” That’s what you’ll say to your crewmate if you romanced them, but even if you didn’t, it’s hard not to develop a bond with any of your team. The final level of Mass Effect 2 is one of the most phenomenal in any game, and not just because of the crew’s fate. The sheer scale of the Reapers as they descend upon Earth is awe-inspiring, and it’s a fitting end to an incredible journey.
Portal
Valve’s Portal has an immersive final level that not only adds depth to the story, but also can make you feel claustrophobic. You’re trapped in the Aperture Science Enrichment Center with the sultry, albeit psychotic, computer program, GLaDOS. It’s here that you’ll try to escape from the clutches of the AI’s testing chambers, and if you’ve played the game, you’ll know that’s easier said than done.
Halo: Reach
The final level of Halo: Reach is epic. There’s no other way to say it. One of the best FPS games of all time, Reach’s finale sees you lead the remnants of humanity in a desperate last stand against the Covenant. The level is so tense, you can almost feel the fear and dread as you desperately try to keep your people alive.
NieR Automata
The final section of Nier Automata is intense and epic – it’s also the point where you realise that everything you’ve done has been for nothing. The fight against Adam and Eve is challenging, and the real kicker is that there’s no way to save the world, let alone your comrades. The dejected tone of the credits really sells this depressing conclusion, and that’s why it’s one of the best final levels in games.
Final Fantasy VI
Kefka’s Tower is a long and winding road, but it’s certainly one you’ll never forget. It’s a challenging, intricate design that will have you pulling your hair out, but also loving every second. If you can’t face the hellish climb to the top, you can always teleport to the front door, but trust us – it’s not worth it.
Sekiro
It’s hard to pick out a single great thing about Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, but the final boss battle is certainly up there. The game’s final enemy is a towering monstrosity that arrives with a bang, and his attacks are merciless. You can’t fight fire with fire in this situation, so you’ve got to think outside the box – or in this case, outside the sword. It’s as satisfying as it is nail-biting.
Tears of the Kingdom
The Tears of the Kingdom final battle is incredible. It’s one of those boss fights that takes you right back to the start of the game, challenging you with everything you’ve learnt along the way, while throwing some new mechanics into the mix. It’s the perfect way to end one of the best open-world games on PC.
Metro Exodus
The final section of Metro Exodus is a level that will induce anxiety. It’s a claustrophobic sequence that sees you fight your way through a bunker, dodging a hail of bullets from your enemy. It’s a tough challenge, but the real struggle is just keeping your cool.
The Witcher 3: Blood and Wine
Blood and Wine is a beautiful and emotional conclusion to The Witcher 3. It’s a fitting swansong for Geralt and his companion, the warrior-queen, Yennefer. From a beautiful lakeside tavern, to a lush green vineyard, and a tranquil castle, this DLC is among the most gorgeous in gaming. It’s also a fitting end to the game’s greatest romance, and Geralt and Yennefer’s relationship will take a direction you won’t forget.
Half-Life 2
Valve’s masterpiece is remembered for many things, but its final level and weapon is something everyone remembers. When Alyx Vance says goodbye to Gordon, it’s heart-breaking. But as she gives you your final instruction, you get the most satisfying weapon in gaming: the gravity gun.
