"Sorry, but I'm gonna be the one to change the world."

Mega Man X, one of the classic games of the SNES, no, entire 16 bit era and one of the greatest platformers ever made, remained a timeless classic over it's 13 years. And fans rejoiced seeing it being remade into the 3D era (although no so much on the PSP). But this isn't just a repaint of a SNES game, it's much, much more. Many new features and additions were added and mixed, giving rebirth to a timeless platformer.

Graphics 9.6/10

These graphics are a lot better than what's seen in the screenshots. The anime scenes and movie are bright, sharp and sleek. Incredibly detailed character models and colors that blow the old anime scenes from X4, 8 and Super Adventure Rock Man away by miles. The game itself is very clear and smooth, and once empty backgrounds like Spark Mandriller's stage are filled with tons of gadgets and animation. The only flaw is that the character models are a bit blocky (a good example is the cars in the intro stage). Overall the game is beautifully reborn from it's 2D roots.

Music 9/10

The music has also been remixed, it takes a more techno feel like in X8. This causes some love or hate feelings. I personally love it. (Boomer Kawanger and Chill Penguin most!)

Gameplay 10/10

The classic stuff. The controls are sharp as ever, also the nub can be used to change weapons which is a bit more comfortable for me. Some stuff has also been altered, like the Light capsules are now in different locations, and some heart tanks like the one in Boomer Kawanger's stage can only be reached now with the Boomerang Cutter as opposed to the SNES where a charged shotgun ice would also be able to reach it (The platform where the Heart Tank is longer). A hard mode has been added and the Mavericks have gained new attacks for people who complained the original was too easy. Some charged weapons have been changed too, Storm Tornado's charged shot is like a beefed up Tornado Hold and Spark Shot has become a full screen blast. Most noticeably the main draw here is the now playable character Vile, who plays a lot differently from X. After beating the game once he becomes playable. He has a ton of weapons, and a energy bar that drains fast but regenerates energy, if there is no energy Vile will have to wait or use his free shots like the Cherry Blast. He also is equipped with three weapons at a time, one on his shoulder, arm and leg, all activated with a different button. He's has a ton of weapons, but he does have his flaws. He takes damage like a little girl (around 30% more than naked X) and he can't dash. (???)

Overall this game completely worth the purchase, even if you own Mega Man X or the X collection, this game has enough goodies and remixed stuff to shell out 30 bucks.

HADOUKEN!
(Yes it's still here!)

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 02/02/06