Ducktales – The Himalayas
This one technically could be for either the original or remake as they were both very fun stages. This stage features an increase in difficulty as you can get stuck in the snow with your pogo stick, but once you get the hang of it, it is quite fun to keep bouncing off enemies. Plus, you get to end the stage by battling the Abominable Snowman.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 – Ice Cap Zone
Whether the game’s soundtrack was created partially by Michael Jackson or not, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is a blast and Ice Cap Zone is one of the standouts. The platforming in this one is a lot of fun as you rush through caverns while avoiding icy spikes. Not to mention that the music in this level is one of the best in the Sonic series as well.
The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask – Snowhead
Majora’s Mask has always been one of my favorite Legend of Zelda games and Snowhead Temple is an excellent example of why. It actually starts when you first arrive in Snowhead and have to get the Goron Mask. Then it ramps up even further when you enter the temple. Utilizing the Goron Mask’s unique abilities and the finding of the Fire Arrow, Snowhead Temple is a ton of fun with some very creative puzzles. Twilight Princess’ Snowpeak Ruins also deserves a mention with its unique dungeon item.
Metal Gear Solid
For this one, you will be on Shadow Moses Island the entire time, which provides a great winter setting. This is especially perfect in boss battles like the one against Sniper Wolf. You also make a return to Shadow Moses in Metal Gear Solid 4, so that is worth checking out as well.
Diddy Kong Racing – Snowflake Mountain
I almost put a level from Mario Kart on this list, but Diddy Kong Racing always had the more memorable ice stages. This might have been helped by there being an entire ice themed world titled Snowflake Mountain that had multiple snow levels included.
Super Mario Bros. 3 – Iced Land
Iced Land is when you begin to reach the toughest stages in the game and I remember having so much trouble beating these levels as a kid at times. With the slippery nature of the ice, each move requires excellent precision. However, these levelss are excellently designed and are great winter fun.
