Recent reviews by Protorock (Hades)

Mega Man X Legacy Collection 2: The Prodigal Son Returns... Kinda
A Comprehensive Review by An Obsessively Sarcastic Fan

When the "Mega Man X Legacy Collection 2" hit the shelves (and 1),the fact that it was separate from part 1 was met with a symphony of groans and a smattering of cheers, "I don't care's", mostly from die-hard fans like myself who would probably buy a bag of sand if it had X’s helmet stamped on it. BUT ....This collection is what happens when nostalgia meets a reality check - it's sort of like looking forward to a high school reunion, only to realize everyone's just older and balder, except Mega Man, who’s perpetually youthful because, well, pixels.

Collection or Collect-Not?

Many say, "Why not just fire up an emulator?" To which I, clutching my limited edition X figurine, vehemently disagree. There's a charm to having everything packaged in a neat, little (overpriced) box. But, let's call a spade a spade: compared to the Mega Man X Anniversary Collection, this feels like getting socks on Christmas. Functional, but not thrilling.

And the absence of "Mega Man X Command Mission" is like forgetting the gravy at a turkey dinner – the bird's still good, but man, did you drop the ball.

Running Well or Running Away?

Yes, even "X7" loads faster than my patience at a DMV, which is a miracle akin to turning water into E-Tanks. But then they went and changed the names of the Mavericks in "X5" from cool Guns N’ Roses references to names I’m pretty sure were drawn from a hat during lunch break. Axle the Red to Spike Rosered? That’s not a name; that’s a botanical error.

X Challenge: Deja Vu with a Side of Nostalgia

It’s the same as the previous collection, making it a dream for veterans and a “meh” for newcomers. Yes, I once held a record in "X3" – it’s gone now, thanks for asking, but the plaque remains, much like my lingering resentment.

Interruptions Galore: The Tale of Axl and Alia

Blaming Axl for the downfall of the X series is like blaming the iceberg for the Titanic disaster – sure, it was involved, but there was a lot more going wrong. Enter Alia, the real iceberg, interrupting gameplay like an overzealous pop-up ad. There's even an achievement for listening to her every single time. If I wanted that much unsolicited advice, I’d visit my relatives.

Mega Man X5: The Bittersweet Symphony

This was the last hurrah before things got weird, marred only by Alia’s constant interjections. The Mavericks were cool, the levels mostly great, and the introduction of rushed gameplay via a countdown was as welcome as a screen door on a submarine. The armor piece mechanic, requiring a full set to activate, was like needing all the pieces of Exodia – theoretically awesome, but mostly just frustrating.

Mega Man X6: Where Level Design Goes to Die

Not crafted by the hands of Inafune or anyone from Inti Creates, the levels in "X6" feel like they were designed by someone who deeply dislikes players. The introduction of rescuing Reploids added a level of stress I usually reserve for tax season. Yet, it’s like a bad haircut – it grows on you, but that doesn’t mean you like it.

Mega Man X7: 3D’s Awkward Teenage Years

This game did for Mega Man’s 3D aspirations what Jar Jar Binks did for Star Wars – left us confused and slightly embarrassed. Between the bad sound mixing and the delayed introduction of X, it’s like going to a concert only for the main band to show up for the encore.

Mega Man X8: The Phoenix from the Ashes

Then came "X8", pulling the series back from the brink with cooler armors, a shop system, and replayability that had me more hooked than my caffeine addiction. Vile’s return was the cherry on top, proving that sometimes, you can go home again.

Conclusion: A Plea for Redemption

In a nutshell, "Mega Man X Legacy Collection 2" is like that one family member who’s fun at parties but you wouldn’t lend money to. It has its moments, shining like X’s armor in the sunlight, but also enough flaws to make you wistfully gaze at your emulator. And Capcom, if you’re listening, bring back "Command Mission." It’s time to heal old wounds.

anyways yeah....try it and buy it.

A Step Forward or a Leap Back? A Veteran's View

As a seasoned gamer with a former world record in Mega Man X3, I approached Mega Man 11 with high expectations and a profound love for the franchise. My anticipation was a mixture of excitement and skepticism, hoping for a sequel that would rekindle the classic Mega Man magic while pushing the series into new territory. Unfortunately, my journey through Mega Man 11 felt more like a missed opportunity than a triumphant return.

Mechanics - A Glimmer of Innovation:
The introduction of the Double Gear system, which allows players to slow down time or power up attacks, stands out as a commendable innovation. This mechanic adds a layer of strategy and depth previously unseen in the series. It's a shining example of how to evolve gameplay in a way that respects the franchise's roots. However, this spark of brilliance is overshadowed by broader design issues that detract from the overall experience.

Level Design - Lengthy but Lacking:
Mega Man games are known for their challenging yet rewarding level design. In Mega Man 11, the levels are not just challenging; they are tediously long, stretching the player's patience thin without offering the intricate design and rewarding exploration of past titles. The comparison to the compact yet rich levels of predecessors like Mega Man 7 is stark, highlighting a missed opportunity for depth and discovery.

Character and Story - Missing the Mark:
Tundra Man's design, reminiscent of classic adversaries, promised a return to form but ended in a battle that felt uninspired and out of place. The absence of series staples like Proto Man, Bass, and even Duo leaves a void that the game's minimal storytelling can't fill. Moreover, the simplicity of the Dr. Wily fight and the lack of secrets and unlockables strip away the layers of challenge and intrigue that defined the series' best entries.

Visuals and Presentation - Underwhelming Expectations:
Despite promises of hand-drawn graphics that could have brought a fresh, dynamic look to the series (evoking visions of an anime-style Cuphead), the game instead delivers standard 3D models that fail to capture the charm or artistic ambition one might expect. This artistic direction feels like a step back, especially when considering the visual creativity of other modern platformers.

A Plea for the Future:
Mega Man 11's commercial success proves the enduring love for the Blue Bomber, but it also sets a concerning precedent for the series' direction. As a lifelong fan and advocate for the series' potential, I implore Capcom to consider a return to the drawing board. Collaborating with developers like Inti Creates could pave the way for a title that truly honors Mega Man's legacy, drawing inspiration from the beloved elements of Mega Man 6, 7, and even 8.

Conclusion:
Mega Man 11 is not without its merits, particularly in its gameplay innovations. However, it falls short of the high standards set by its predecessors. It's a reminder that what makes Mega Man special isn't just its challenge or its iconic protagonist but the heart and creativity infused into its world. Here's hoping that future entries will recapture the magic that has made Mega Man a cornerstone of gaming for decades.

The Good, the Bad, and the Pixel Art

As someone who recently embarked on the journey of game development with RPG Maker MV, my experience has been a blend of excitement, slight frustration, and discovery. RPG Maker MV, renowned for its accessibility to beginners and its rich history in the indie game development scene, was my tool of choice for a foray into creating my own role-playing games. Here's what I've learned so far:

Ease of Use and Learning Curve:
RPG Maker MV shines in its user-friendly approach, making game development seem less daunting for a novice. The drag-and-drop functionality, pre-built systems for common RPG elements, and an intuitive interface allowed me to jump straight into the creative process. However, it hasn't all been smooth sailing. I've found myself stuck on seemingly simple tasks, a reminder that even the most user-friendly tools have their complexities. It's a learning curve I'm eager to climb, with each challenge offering a new opportunity to understand the software better.

User Interface (UI) Concerns:
The UI of RPG Maker MV has its detractors across the internet, and I can see why. At times, it feels a bit outdated and less than optimal for efficient workflow. Thankfully, this can be mitigated to some extent. The ability to purchase and integrate assets helps personalize and enhance the interface, although I wish some of these improvements were included in the base software.

A Pixel Artist's Perspective:
One of my personal strengths lies in creating pixel art, an art form that feels right at home in RPG Maker MV's aesthetic. While I can craft characters and items with ease, I've longed for the software to offer template maps. Such templates would greatly assist in creating complete game worlds without the need for intricate map-making skills, enabling me to focus on storytelling and game mechanics.

Scripting with Ruby:
The option to code with Ruby in RPG Maker MV is a double-edged sword. It opens up a vast landscape of customization and complexity for those willing to learn. However, for a beginner like myself, it's both intriguing and daunting. I'm motivated to delve deeper into Ruby, anticipating the creative freedom it promises.

Final Thoughts:
My initial foray into RPG Maker MV has been enlightening. Despite its flaws and the occasional frustration, it stands out as one of the most accessible ways to make a game. The journey from a simple idea to a playable game is filled with learning opportunities, and RPG Maker MV does an admirable job of guiding aspiring developers through this process.

In conclusion, RPG Maker MV is a powerful tool for those looking to step into the world of game development. Its ease of use, combined with the potential for deep customization, offers a solid foundation for creating unique RPGs. As I continue to explore and learn, I'm excited about the worlds I'll create, armed with pixel art and the power of Ruby scripting.

Embarking on the journey through the Mega Man Legacy Collection has been an experience of mixed emotions for me. As a devotee primarily of the X, Battle network and Z/X series, my allegiance to the original Mega Man saga isn't as fervent. However, this compilation has done a commendable job of drawing me into the world that preceded my favorites. The collection, while not as expansive in content as the Mega Man Anniversary Collection for the PS2/GameCube, still stands as a vital piece of gaming history for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

The inclusion of a rewind feature is perhaps the most notable addition for those of us who might not have the pixel-perfect precision the original titles demand. This feature acts as a double-edged sword; it's undeniably a godsend for beginners, making the notoriously difficult series more accessible to a broader audience. Yet, I can't shake off a twinge of guilt whenever I lean on it, as if it somewhat diminishes the victory. Purists might balk at its use, but its presence is a testament to the collection's aim to be inclusive to all skill levels.

The challenges presented within the collection, while a commendable effort to inject additional content and replayability, fall short of the mark when compared to the depth and intricacy found in the core games of the X series. They seem somewhat mediocre, lacking the innovative flair that could have elevated the compilation further. Despite this, the way the collection seamlessly links every game together is impressive, offering a cohesive journey through the evolution of Mega Man and his myriad adventures. This connectivity provides a narrative coherence that is often missing from compilations.

It's hard not to compare this collection to its predecessors, particularly the Mega Man Anniversary Collection, which boasted a more robust catalog of content. The disparity in volume and variety between the two collections is puzzling, especially in an era where technological advancements should allow for a more comprehensive compilation. This comparison, however, doesn't detract from the core value of the Legacy Collection as a means of preserving and presenting a significant chapter in video game history.

After considerable reflection and despite my reservations, I find myself appreciating the Mega Man Legacy Collection for what it is — a bridge between generations of gamers and a celebration of the blue bomber's roots. It's a solid compilation that, while not without its flaws, offers enough to warrant a place in any fan's collection. With that said, I rate the Mega Man Legacy Collection an 8/10. This score reflects both my acknowledgment of its importance in preserving gaming heritage and my personal journey of discovering the appeal of the original Mega Man saga.

As a fervent admirer of the Mega Man X saga, my anticipation for the Mega Man X Legacy Collection was a blend of excitement and nostalgia. This collection serves as a treasure trove, rekindling the flames of yesteryears with its meticulously remastered classics. However, the decision to bifurcate the collection into separate entities puzzles me. Despite this, my affection for the series encourages me to embrace what we have been granted. After all, receiving this compilation is a boon we should wholeheartedly appreciate, surpassing the void of absence.

The X Challenge emerges as a standout feature, presenting an exhilarating test of mettle for aficionados of the X series. It’s a beautifully crafted ode to the enduring legacy of Mega Man X, challenging veterans and newcomers alike with a gauntlet that demands precision, strategy, and resilience. This mode alone makes the collection a must-have, offering a fresh and invigorating way to experience the franchise's rich lore and challenging gameplay.

Conversely, the inclusion of Rookie Hunter mode, designed ostensibly for achievement hunters, strikes a discordant note in the symphony of this collection. By rendering the player virtually invincible, it detracts from the essence of Mega Man X — a series celebrated for its challenging gameplay and intricate level design. While its intention to make the series more accessible is commendable, it feels somewhat misplaced in a compilation that should honor the rigorous challenge that defined these titles.

My journey with the Mega Man X Legacy Collection spanned across every console available, affirming my deep-seated love for these games. Each platform offered a unique lens through which to appreciate the painstaking effort invested into bringing these classics back to life. Yet, my unbridled admiration is tempered by the absence of Mega Man X5 from the collection. As the last entry that, in my eyes, embodied perfection, its omission is the sole reason this compilation falls just short of a perfect score.

Therefore, with a mixture of nostalgia, love, and a slight hint of longing for what could have been, I rate the Mega Man X Legacy Collection a 9/10. This score reflects not only the excellence contained within but also a yearning for the inclusion of X5 — the missing piece that would have completed this masterpiece. Regardless, this collection stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Mega Man X series, offering both a celebration of its past and a beacon of its timeless appeal.

pretty good.

Awesome edition of this game, but be aware its only one player. My son isn't thrilled about that, but at least you can use every character!! this is how the game should've been when it released.

My favorite classic RPG, so im biased, and im just giving it 9/10 out of the gate. I have played it since the 2005, while in college and in very difficult situations in my life. (This is the superior version between kotor 1 and kotor 2, by far) with a treasure trove of mods available on the workshop, Pc is the ideal way to play it. As for the steam deck activate the autosaves and save often the game will crash often (often is me being nice) which is a bummer because the switch version sucks and this could've been the ideal portable version. I recommend playing it with the restoration mods, Replaying it many times. after your second play through you can even try editing the save file. cloud functions are perfect and mods offer the perfect star wars game.

My con and the reason: I dont give it a 10. (besides the steamdeck crashing) is Peragus it might make new players just quit it is the most boring prologue in a awesome classic game in history, it might take you 6 hours, I find myself thinking (why am I still in peragus??) thankfully there's mods to skip it! (its that bad!!!).

After dedicating the time to fully immerse myself in Mega Man X Dive, I find myself at a crossroads of appreciation and disappointment. The game arrives amid high expectations, not just as a standalone title but also in the shadow of potential future projects like Mega Man X9 and Mega Man 11. My greatest hope is that its development hasn't detracted from the progress of these highly anticipated titles.

One of the most commendable features of Mega Man X Dive is its expansive roster. The ability to play as nearly every character from the Mega Man X series—and indeed, from every series within the franchise—is nothing short of a fan's dream come true. This inclusivity is a bold nod to the series' legacy, offering a rich tapestry of characters that have defined the franchise over the years.

However, this dream is somewhat marred by the game's core mechanics. The decision to limit characters from using their default weapons in favor of a gacha system is disappointing. This approach feels like a missed opportunity to celebrate the essence of each character, instead opting to prioritize monetization through "weird" weapons. This aspect left me feeling like the game was more interested in "bleeding fans dry" than in honoring the spirit of the Mega Man franchise.

My disillusionment extends to two particular areas: the Jakob Tower and the storyline. The latter might be the only storyline in a video game that I've felt compelled to skip entirely. It's lackluster, unengaging, and fails to capture the essence of what makes Mega Man stories compelling. Calling it "trash" might be harsh, but it certainly doesn't meet the narrative standards fans have come to expect from the series.

On a brighter note, Mega Man X Dive shines in its level design and boss battles. The creativity and thoughtfulness evident in each level and the ingenuity of some boss fights are a testament to what the game could have been. These elements stand as beacons of excellence in an otherwise murky sea of content.

The game's leveling system and the grind it demands are perplexing and, frankly, unexpected for a Mega Man game. The experience fluctuates wildly, sometimes feeling rewarding and at other times, utterly baffling. It's a grind that seems out of place in the franchise's traditionally action-packed, skill-based context.

In conclusion, Mega Man X Dive is a game torn between its ambitions and its execution. For the die-hard fan, it offers a nostalgic journey through the franchise's rich history, albeit with significant caveats. If you're not as invested, perhaps wait for a sale. Despite its flaws, it's a relief to see Mega Man X Dive preserved and not doomed to obscurity like Mega Man Xover. Capcom's practice of revisiting and reviving its classic franchises is commendable, even if the execution in this instance leaves room for improvement. My final verdict is a cautious recommendation, underscored by the hope that future endeavors will better capture the essence of what makes Mega Man so beloved

A EPIC GAME I WOULD PLAY IT WITH GLADYS EVERYDAY 10/10!!!!