Mega Man X

"A Classic Entry in the Mega Man Franchise"

Introduction
Released in 1993/94 for the SNES, Mega Man X debuted a new spin-off series set in the Mega Man universe. Featuring new foes, weapon upgrades, levels, and bosses, this installment is a welcoming addition. Even after 15+ years, the game still holds up quite well.

---

Gameplay - 9/10
This 2D action/platforming game features similarities to its predecessor, the original Mega Man series on the NES. To begin, the game throws you into the fray right off the bat, adjusting you to the controls. The object is to get to the end of the level while avoiding a variety of enemies, each with different attacks. There are foes who specialize with ground, projectile, and mid-air attacks, always keeping X on his toes.

The main interface of the game is symbolized with a boss or level select screen. On it are eight different levels housing eight different Maverick bosses. They can be completed in any order that the player desires, unlike other platformers which keep the player on a singular path. Each boss holds a specific power upgrade that can be acquired by defeating them. The powers are far-reaching and obtaining each one is an important strategic aspect of gameplay. At the start, X is equipped with his typical X-Buster gun, a staple since the original series. As the player progresses through the game, they become acquainted with new upgrades each unique in their usefulness. When equipped with the correct weapon against a particular boss, more damage is dealt. Although exploiting each boss' weakness, that is only half the battle. This game requires a moderate amount of strategy, timing, and quick reflexes to avoid heavy damage. Memorizing attacks and patterns that each boss displays is helpful, but they often try and attack X quite randomly, resulting in a unique battle every time.

Besides weapon power ups, there are multiple upgrades that add to the maneuverability of the main character. One such upgrade that is available from the beginning of the game is the ability to wall jump. This is first introduced in the Mega Man X series, creating a more free-flowing, less tethered experience. It allows X to recover from near death or reach new heights as well. These upgrades are spread throughout the game and provide great help in an already challenging game.

Speaking of difficulty, the Mega Man franchise is notorious for its challenge. Veterans of the platforming genre will still find that this game can kick your tail, especially during the late stages. Newcomers will more than likely end up with a few Game Over screens before completing the game. There are no options to change the difficulty level, so getting adjusted is top priority. However, the game is not painstakingly difficult and through numerous trials, it can be beaten.

One minor flaw of this game ties into the difficulty, involving enemy respawns. Whenever the player defeats an enemy, depending on their position on the screen, the enemy can quickly respawn in its original position. Say for example that you are situated in the middle of the level and a bat flies from the right side of the screen and tries to hurt X. Meanwhile, a bat appears on the left side and does the same thing. The bat on the right is quickly dispatched and you now focus on the left bat, walking to the left. Moving to the left far enough will trigger the game to reload what was to the right. So the bat that was first defeated will appear once again. Moving quickly enough through the level will avoid this nuisance, but there are instances where X must travel vertically to continue on. Working your way up a level only to miss a jump and fall all the way back down is frustrating in any platforming game. But with instantaneous enemy respawns, this creates parts of the game that are cheap and broken. Luckily, these parts are few and far in-between and the player for a majority of time will go through levels at a moderate pace.

Another drawback to this game is just how short it is. Mega Man X can be completed in under four hours, and that is even when struggling mightily. The eight levels to choose from each take less than 15 minutes to complete, many less than that. It is unfortunate because of how addicting it is but those few hours of gameplay are a blast to enjoy.

---

Story - 7/10
The Mega Man X storyline begins 30 years after the original series. Dr. Thomas Light, designer of Mega Man X, seals him in a capsule which is to be opened at a later date. The difference in this "species" of robot and the original Mega Man is its ability to be a free thinker, displaying raw emotions when it pleases. After time passes (around 100 years), Dr. Cain discovers the capsule and releases X. Dr. Cain notably creates a series of robots based off of the diagnostics of X, called Reploids, with his most notable creation being Sigma. Sigma is known to become the main antagonist in the story (and the X Series) as he betrays the Maverick Hunters to hold the title as leader of the Mavericks. At the beginning of the game, we meet Zero, an ally associated with the Maverick Hunters. The player meets Zero semi-frequently, aiding X in information and firepower. It is up to this group of Maverick Hunters to dispose of their evil counterparts and restore peace to human civilization.

---

Graphics - 8/10
Compared to other games during its time, Mega Man X held up quite well in the graphics department. As a classic, the various sprites and wide array of color palettes make this game still a sight to see. When there is a ton of action on a screen at one time, the graphics are shown at their true potential. A fully charged X-Buster blast is still quite amazing to look at when considering the limitations of 16-bit consoles well over a decade ago. Not only that, the backgrounds and levels in general are unique and well done. Overall, the bright colors, the explosions, and the attention to detail all make the case for a great looking game.

---

Audio/Sound - 9/10

Quite simply, this game features an amazing soundtrack. Every level in Mega Man X features a track that fits the situation spot on, all of which are enjoyable to listen to. None of the music is tiring to listen to, even after multiple playthroughs. The weapon sounds and explosions are quite authentic and hold a certain nostalgic factor. One minor gripe is the lack of enemy involvement in the sound department. They aren't emphasized quite enough and feel almost void of emotion when attacking them. But the player will be too busy blasting through these same enemies to distinctively notice such a minute detail. Overall, Capcom hit a homerun in its audio work of Mega Man X

---

Positives:
+ Weapon upgrades/variety of weaponry
+ Boss battles are plentiful and unique
+ Music/sound effects are top notch for the SNES.
+ Excellent graphics (sprites, bright color palettes)

Negatives:
- Length; the game is quite short and can be beaten in under 4 hours.
- Respawning enemies; some parts that require precise platforming are quite tedious with this.


---

Overall (Not an Average) - 8/10
This game is a must-play for any of those who enjoy classic platforming and/or plenty of action. Although the game is relatively short and has some issues with difficulty, it is addicting to play and can stand through multiple playthroughs. It may be hard to get your hands on the original SNES version, so your best bet may be to purchase the Mega Man X Collection, which was released on the PlayStation 2 and GameCube console platforms.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 08/10/09

Game Release: Mega Man X (US, January 1994)