Mega Man X8

"Capcom Finally Gets It Right For The PS2"

Introduction:
This is the 8th installment of the MegaMan X series. It is one of the few MegaMan series that Capcom has made that is known throughout the world for its pure fun in action. In this game, you will play as X, Zero, and Axl in the quest to defeat their nemesis, Sigma. You will have many hours of fun with this game. Are you ready?

Storyline: 7.5/10
As in previously releaed MegaMan X games, the storyline is chock full of plot holes. If you are a MegaMan X veteran, you will know what I am talking about. But none the less, the storyline itself in X8 is quite interesting and many MegaMan X fans will be shocked from playing X8. You will see and hear many unexpected things.

Gameplay, Difficulty, & Replay: 8/10
This is where the score gets lowered. This isn't so because the game itself has bad gameplay or replayability, but it's because the game can become frustrating because of its high difficulty level. But as most MegaMan X games are, all gamers do get used to it and it'll seem like a piece of cake eventually. The replay value is quite good in this game. Capcom added some RPG elements in X8 so instead of the traditioanl "heart tanks" you find in levels, you "buy" health upgrades for each of the characters using "force metals" you find throughout the game as money. Unlocking the armors, finding the rare metals, and unlocking the navigators are playable characters all add up to the replay value of the game.

Music/Sound: 10/10
This is something Capcom always does well especially in their MegaMan X games. Any gamer should like the music in MegaMan X games!

Graphics: 9.5/10
Although the graphics aren't perfect, the graphics are extremly well done. After the poorly planned cel-shaded X7, you will easily be able to appreciate the psuedo-3D/2D graphical style used in this game.

Rent or Buy?:
Simple. If you like the MegaMan X series then it's a definite buy. If you're new MegaMan, give it a rent and see if you like it. I also suggest you getting MegaMan X4, MegaMan X5, MegaMan X6, MegaMan X7, and MegaMan X Command Mission. Personally, I have them all and I like them a lot (even though X6 and X7 are looked down upon).

Conclusion:
Thanks for reading my review. I hope you do buy it!

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 12/20/04