Everyone’s favorite blue bomber is back. Capcom has given us Mega Man 11, a game that was released within a very short time after announcement. after eight years, would gamers still be drawn to the action packed platformer that has continued for all generations of consoles? The answer is a big fat yes.
If you played one of the Mega Man titles over the years, you know the basic setup. Dr Wiley is trying to take over the world with a few new robot masters. It’s up to Dr Light’s creation, Mega Man, to stop them and the mad doctor. You can still choose what path to take and you get the bosses weapons when you defeat them. Your faithful robotic dog Rush is back as well, willing to lend a paw to overcome a tough spot or get an item.
Mega Man 11 does add something new to the winning formula. The gear system gives Mega Man two distincity power ups. The Speed Gear slows everything down, allowing Mega Man a few precious seconds to readjust. The Power Gear increases the damage done by the blaster. Both can not be used indefinitely and will overheat. When Mega Man has low health, both gears combine for a powerful charge shot. Make it count because you can only use it once.
The game is gorgeous to look at, the enemies and backgrounds feel as if they stepped out of a cartoon. You will probably miss it the first time through, since you will be preoccupied with not dying. Levels suddenly become insanely hard with little or no warning. It can be frustrating, but a few lives lost will finally give you the solution. No levels are as hard as Quick Man’s stage from Mega Man 2, which is a gift from the heavens.
Mega Man 11 succeeds because it does not tamper with the success that got the franchise to this point. Updated graphics and some new mechanics add to the game without overwhelming it. You might be able to beat the game without ever using the Gear System. The game begs to be replayed, as you find the best route through the Robot Masters. Congratulations on 30 years Mega Man, and here’s to the next 30.
9/10
Available on PS4, Xbox, PC and Switch
