Review: "Nine Circles" by Zobros
Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★★ (10/10)

"Nine Circles" by Zobros is more than just a Geometry Dash level—it’s a milestone in the game's history. As the originator of one of the most iconic level styles ever created, this level redefined what visual innovation could look like in the Geometry Dash community.

What makes "Nine Circles" so groundbreaking is its instantly recognizable aesthetic: the glowing wave sections synced to a pulsing, vibrant remix of "It's Not Over". The blend of neon visuals, flashing effects, and tight wave gameplay was revolutionary at the time, sparking an entire genre of levels that followed in its footsteps. Yet even after countless remakes and variations, the original still stands tall.

The difficulty is fair but challenging, with sharp wave sections that test precision while still remaining learnable and addictive. Zobros mastered the balance between visual spectacle and gameplay fluidity—something many imitators failed to achieve.

"Nine Circles" is a perfect example of how creativity and risk-taking can change a game forever. It’s stylish, thrilling, and timeless. Whether you're playing it for the first time or revisiting it years later, the level still hits with the same energy and excitement.

A flawless 10/10—legendary, influential, and forever etched in Geometry Dash history.

super iconic and of course very original for it's time. zobros pulled off the wave effect quite well, and the gameplay is fairly challenging to go along with it.

“Nine Circles” by Zobros is a landmark in Geometry Dash history—no debate there. It didn’t just popularize a new visual style; it created an entire subgenre that would inspire hundreds of spin-offs, remixes, and spiritual successors. But looking back on it now, with everything that’s come after, it’s a level that stands tall for its innovation, even if it shows its age in some places.

The visual identity of “Nine Circles” is unmistakable. That signature neon, pulsating wave section—built entirely from glow and clever block layering—was mind-blowing at the time. It took the idea of a wave challenge and gave it a hypnotic aesthetic twist, blending rhythm, intensity, and visual distortion into one chaotic-but-beautiful package. The early parts of the level are simpler, almost generic, but once you hit the wave, it’s pure energy.

Gameplay-wise, “Nine Circles” delivers a solid challenge, especially when it first dropped. The wave section is tight, fast, and takes practice to master. However, it can also feel a little inconsistent. Some transitions are abrupt, and the sync between the gameplay and music—while good—doesn’t always feel as tight as in later versions or remakes. It walks a thin line between satisfying difficulty and borderline unfair moments, depending on your skill level and patience.

Where the level shines most is in its legacy. It started a movement. The “Nine Circles” format became a genre of its own, with levels like “Fairydust,” “Infernal Abyss,” and “Sonic Wave” pushing the style further. While Zobros' original isn’t the most polished or advanced by today’s standards, it absolutely earns respect for planting the flag.

In short, “Nine Circles” is more important than it is perfect. It’s a bit rough around the edges now, but it still holds up as a fun, nostalgic, and challenging experience.

7/10. A trendsetter with lasting impact.

This level is truly one of the most iconic creations ever, spawning tens, hundreds if not thousands of similar levels, and for the original, its pretty good. Every part in this is a hit or miss: either really fun or the ship and the last cube

obviously this level was super influential, but its also a good level in its own right . The nine circles effect is executed really well here for it being the first time, and the gameplay is honestly really fun