Mega Man X (Super Nintendo Review)

(Originally posted on December, 2020) 

Of all the prominent 8-bit franchises which migrated to the next generation of consoles, Mega Man stands out in particular. Not only delivering a graphical overhaul, the X series delicately added greater depth and exploration without weakening its wide ranging appeal. The proven shoot and jump action is bolstered by a satisfying upgrade system and additional movement abilities which work more to enhance rather than complicate the demanding reflexive gameplay. The comical mischief of Doctor Wily is swapped for Sigma's gloomy virus war which you'll be compelled to conquer...as you unravel the mysteries of both Mega Man X's new world and powerful partner, Zero. Jumpy humanoid robot masters are replaced by the less predictable swinging and slithering of the mechanical animal kingdom. Even X himself grew a little taller and more nimble. His ability to kick his way up or slide down walls is missed whenever visiting the ladder-laden main series.

Without straying from its linear style, a more expansive, explorable stage layout produces the precise amount of encouragement to look towards what lies beyond incoming enemy fire. Each level conceals either an important health bar extension or the ultimate upgrade: one of Dr. Light's capsules, furnishing X with new abilities and an even edgier look. 

Beyond the early helicopter hornet mini boss which smashes the highway and forces X to master the wall kick to escape the rubble, there are even more impressive moments where the destructibility of the environments rewards your curiosity. Coming up for air in Launch Octopus's stage allows you to board a large yet relatively innocuous enemy boat, destroy it, and marvel as its descent into the sea reveals a hidden cavern holding an important treasure. In Armored Armadillo's mine, inspecting new pathways cleared by rambunctious heavy machinery unearths valuables.

Previously unexpressive bosses now show their contempt and astonishment mid-battle as lighting, weather, particle effects and the SNES's increased sprite crunching capability allow them to interact with the arena in their own dangerous ways. The soulful soundtrack is tinged with danger and despair, initially overflowing with energy to the point of slight abrasiveness. Upon closer listening, all the instruments unite perfectly, seemingly both singing and telling a story in their own guitar and keyboard voices. Of the entire standout soundtrack, "Sigma Stage 2" may bring tears as its heavy yet resolute mood sets in immediately after the game's most wrenching moment...

The journey's tough yet well balanced difficulty continues until the three phased final boss, where you may become more enraged than engaged. Although energy refills are generously provided at the final continue point, be prepared for much trial and error. Later entries to the X series ranged from unbelievably poor to arguably topping this one, but there's no dispute that X's 1993 debut is one the highlights of the Super Nintendo. Developers may be enlightened decades yet by Capcom's example of utilizing and innovating upon new hardware, while appealing to a growing and maturing demographic. If only all 'transitions of power' proceeded this smoothly...