I was talking to a friend the other day as we were moving across a map we’ve played together hundreds of times. We were discussing how it’s still one of the best in the game. And then I proclaimed it as one of the best in gaming.
That got me thinking about those timeless classics that we go back to over and over. Maps are re-made for different iterations of the same series, and we instantly choose when going back to an older game.
Granted, there’s some personal experience and preference involved here. But here are our top 5 timeless multiplayer maps.
Our top 5 multiplayer maps of all time
Blood Gulch (Halo: Combat Evolved, 2001)
Few maps are as instantly recognizable as Blood Gulch.
This symmetrical, canyon-based map from the original Halo defined a generation of console multiplayer.
Its simple yet brilliant design, featuring two bases separated by a wide-open field and winding side paths, fostered intense vehicle combat and strategic sniper duels.
The iconic Warthog runs, the desperate flag captures, and the satisfying crack of the Sniper Rifle echoing across the map are all ingrained in the minds of countless players.
- Iconic Because: Perfect balance, vehicle focus, and a simple, memorable layout that encouraged diverse playstyles.
- Age: Released in 2001 (24 years old).
- Remakes: Blood Gulch has been reimagined in various forms throughout the Halo franchise, most notably as Coagulation in Halo 2, Valhalla in Halo 3, and Hemorrhage in Halo: Reach. Its spirit lives on in countless other symmetrical, vehicle-centric maps.
Dust2 (Counter-Strike, 2001)
“Rush B!” This simple command has echoed across millions of headsets for over two decades, and it’s almost always in the context of Dust2.
This map, a staple of the Counter-Strike series since its early days as a mod, is arguably the most played and studied map in competitive first-person shooter history.
Its straightforward three-lane design – long A, mid, and long B – belies a depth of strategic possibilities and tactical nuances.
From the iconic AWP peek through the double doors to the tense standoffs in the tunnels, Dust2 has provided countless unforgettable moments.
- Iconic Because: Simple yet strategically deep layout, perfect for competitive play, and its enduring presence in the Counter-Strike scene.
- Age: Originally appeared in Counter-Strike in 2001 (24 years old).
- Remakes: Dust2 has been visually updated and refined numerous times throughout the Counter-Strike series, most recently in Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. Its core layout, however, has remained remarkably consistent.
Erangel (PUBG: Battlegrounds, 2017)
While the battle royale genre is defined by its vast scale, Erangel, the original map from PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, holds a special place in the hearts of many.
This sprawling 8×8 kilometre island, inspired by real-world locations, offered a unique blend of open fields, dense forests, and strategically important urban areas. The thrill of dropping in, scavenging for loot, and surviving against 99 other players in this diverse landscape defined the early days of the battle royale craze.
Arguably a modern classic, and certainly the youngest here. I think in time we’ll hold it in the esteem it deserves, and I wanted to get ahead of it.
- Iconic Because: Pioneering map in the battle royale genre, offering a vast and varied landscape that encouraged exploration and strategic positioning.
- Age: Released in 2017 (8 years old).
- Remakes: While PUBG has introduced numerous other maps, Erangel has received significant visual updates and refinements over the years, ensuring its continued relevance.
Rainbow Road (Mario Kart Series, 1992 onwards)
No discussion of iconic multiplayer maps is complete without mentioning the notoriously challenging Rainbow Road.
Appearing in almost every Mario Kart game since its debut in Super Mario Kart on the SNES, this track is less about strategic positioning and more about sheer skill and a healthy dose of luck.
Its vibrant, winding, and often treacherous design, filled with sharp turns, narrow pathways, and the constant threat of falling into the starry abyss, has become a symbol of the Mario Kart experience.
Crossing the finish line on Rainbow Road, especially in first place, is a badge of honour for any Mario Kart player.
- Iconic Because: Its visually stunning and challenging design, synonymous with the chaotic fun of the Mario Kart series.
- Age: First appeared in Super Mario Kart in 1992 (33 years old).
- Remakes: Rainbow Road has been reimagined and redesigned in various iterations across the Mario Kart franchise, each with its own unique twists and visual flair.
Facility (GoldenEye 007, 1997)
For many console gamers of the late 90s, Facility was the ultimate test of split-screen multiplayer prowess.
This map from the groundbreaking GoldenEye 007 on the Nintendo 64 was a masterclass in level design for its time. Its tight corridors, multiple levels, and strategically placed ventilation shafts encouraged stealthy gameplay and frantic close-quarters combat.
The iconic proximity mines and the frantic scramble for the Golden Gun in the central laboratory made Facility a constant source of memorable moments and heated arguments amongst friends.
- Iconic Because: Innovative level design for its time, encouraging diverse playstyles and memorable close-quarters combat.
- Age: Released in 1997 (28 years old).
- Remakes: While GoldenEye 007 has seen a few remasters and re-releases, the specific layout of Facility remains a nostalgic touchstone for fans of the original.
Beyond the pantheon: Other notable maps
While the aforementioned maps are undoubtedly iconic, the world of multiplayer gaming is rich with other legendary battlegrounds. Here are a few more that deserve a mention:
- Nuketown (Call of Duty Series, 2010 onwards): This small, symmetrical map, first appearing in Call of Duty: Black Ops, has become a staple of the franchise for its fast-paced, chaotic action. Its tight confines guarantee constant engagement and high kill counts. It has been remade and re-imagined numerous times across different Call of Duty titles.
- Facing Worlds (Unreal Tournament, 1999): This visually striking map, featuring two platforms connected by a narrow bridge high in the sky, was a showcase for the fast-paced, vertical gameplay of Unreal Tournament. The constant threat of being knocked off the bridge made for exhilarating and often hilarious encounters. It has seen various iterations and tributes in subsequent Unreal Tournament games.
- 2Fort (Team Fortress 2, 2007): This symmetrical capture-the-flag map, with its distinct fortress design and multiple routes, embodies the strategic depth and class-based gameplay of Team Fortress 2. Its enduring popularity speaks to its balanced and engaging design.
What else?
The question here is, what maps have we missed? What do you consider iconic?
Erangel feels eager, but it’s 8 years old and still going strong. Dropping Pochinki is as exciting as it has always been. Much like 2 flag CTF on Halo is as thrilling as it always was.
Sure the gameplay helps, but without these icons in map design. Some of these games wouldn’t have the timeless appeal that they do.
These maps, and countless others, are more than just digital environments. They are the stages upon which our most cherished gaming memories are forged.
They are the places where friendships are tested, rivalries are born, and legendary moments are created. So long as we’re gaming, we’ll be playing on these maps and new/future classics. I for one can’t wait to see what new gems come out over the years.
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