''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' is a 2005
action
Action may refer to:
* Action (philosophy), something which is done by a person
* Action principles the heart of fundamental physics
* Action (narrative), a literary mode
* Action fiction, a type of genre fiction
* Action game, a genre of video gam ...
-
platform game
A platformer (also called a platform game, and sometimes a jump 'n' run game) is a subgenre of action game in which the core objective is to move the player character between points in an environment. Platform games are characterized by levels wi ...
developed and published by
Capcom
is a Japanese video game company. It has created a number of critically acclaimed and List of best-selling video game franchises, multi-million-selling game franchises, with its most commercially successful being ''Resident Evil'', ''Monster ...
for the
PlayStation Portable
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) is a handheld game console developed and marketed by Sony Interactive Entertainment, Sony Computer Entertainment. It was first released in Japan on December 12, 2004, in North America on March 24, 2005, and in PA ...
(PSP). It is a
remake
A remake is a film, television series, video game, song or similar form of entertainment that is based upon and retells the story of an earlier production in the same medium—e.g., a "new version of an existing film". A remake tells the same s ...
of the 1993 video game ''
Mega Man X
is a series of Action game, action-platformer, platform games released by Capcom. It is a sub-series of the ''Mega Man'' franchise previously developed by the same group, with Keiji Inafune acting as one of the main staff members. The Mega Man ...
'', which was originally released for the
Super NES
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System, commonly shortened to Super Nintendo, Super NES or SNES, is a 16-bit home video game console developed by Nintendo that was released in 1990 in Japan, 1991 in North America, 1992 in Europe and Oceania a ...
and is the first game in the
eponymous series. Players control an advanced, mechanical being called
X through eight stages as he faces enemy forces and obtains new powers to defeat the strongest
bosses. An alternative mode allows the player to control the villain Vile, who has his own weapons.
The story is similar to that of the original ''Mega Man X''; the title character crosses the world to stop the rebellious
Sigma
Sigma ( ; uppercase Σ, lowercase σ, lowercase in word-final position ς; ) is the eighteenth letter of the Greek alphabet. In the system of Greek numerals, it has a value of 200. In general mathematics, uppercase Σ is used as an operator ...
from leading humanity to extinction and have the Mavericks rule the world. X's origins and his relationship with Sigma are further explored in the game and its
original video animation
, abbreviated as OVA and sometimes as OAV (original animation video), are Japanese animated films and special episodes of a series made specially for release in home video formats without prior showings on television or in theaters, though the ...
(OVA) prequel ''
The Day of Sigma''. The new hardware allowed the staff to use voice acting with a cast. ''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' was first released in Japan on December 15, 2005, and in North America on January 31, 2006.
The game's development began with executive producer
Keiji Inafune
is a Japanese video game producer, character designer, game designer, and businessman. In 2009, he was chosen by IGN as one of the top 100 game creators of all time.
Starting his career at Capcom in the late 1980s, his job was as an artist and ...
and his development team deciding whether they should make ''Mega Man X9'' or a remake of ''Mega Man X'' for the PSP; they develop the latter because they wanted to take advantage of the new hardware. Because the game runs on newer hardware, it includes
3D graphics
3D computer graphics, sometimes called CGI, 3D-CGI or three-dimensional computer graphics, are graphics that use a three-dimensional representation of geometric data (often Cartesian) that is stored in the computer for the purposes of perfor ...
rather than the
2D graphics
2D computer graphics is the computer-generated imagery, computer-based generation of digital images—mostly from two-dimensional models (such as 2D geometric models, text, and digital images) and by techniques specific to them. It may refer t ...
used in the 1993 original, other improvements and extra features.
Upon release, ''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' was met with positive reviews from critics, who praised its updated presentation and story, although the music was met with mixed reception. The game was a commercial failure, leading Capcom to cancel future remakes of ''Mega Man'' games, but the game has been retrospectively popular and is considered one of the best handheld games in the franchise.
Gameplay
''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X '' is a remake of ''
Mega Man X
is a series of Action game, action-platformer, platform games released by Capcom. It is a sub-series of the ''Mega Man'' franchise previously developed by the same group, with Keiji Inafune acting as one of the main staff members. The Mega Man ...
'', which was originally released in 1993 and uses
16-bit
16-bit microcomputers are microcomputers that use 16-bit microprocessors.
A 16-bit register can store 216 different values. The range of integer values that can be stored in 16 bits depends on the integer representation used. With the two ...
graphics. ''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' uses realistic
3D graphics
3D computer graphics, sometimes called CGI, 3D-CGI or three-dimensional computer graphics, are graphics that use a three-dimensional representation of geometric data (often Cartesian) that is stored in the computer for the purposes of perfor ...
. The player controls the Maverick Hunter X, whose only weapon is the "X Buster", which acts as horizontal firepower. Upon completing the introductory level, players can choose one of eight areas; they have to proceed while fighting enemies to reach and fight
bosses known as mavericks. Beating a Maverick will unlock their ability to use as an alternate weapon besides the X Buster. Using certain abilities on Mavericks will cause them to take more damage than usual.
Hidden in several levels are Dr. Light capsules, which include armor parts that give X additional buffs. In ''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'', the position and stages of these capsules are changed. X, the main character, has access to a hidden technique based on the
fighting game
The fighting game video game genre, genre involves combat between multiple characters, often (but not limited to) one-on-one battles. Fighting game combat often features mechanics such as Blocking (martial arts), blocking, grappling, counter- ...
series ''
Street Fighter
is a Media mix, Japanese media franchise centered on a series of fighting games developed and published by Capcom. Street Fighter 1, The first game in the series was released in 1987, followed by List of Street Fighter video games, six other ma ...
'', the Hadoken, which allows X to easily defeat any enemy. When all eight mavericks are defeated, Sigma is unlocked as the final boss of the game. If the player did not obtain Light's arm protectors, his superior Zero gives X power-ups in the final stage.
After completing the game, an alternative mode in which the player controls the
boss character Vile is unlocked. As a playable character, Vile has access to three weapons—one each for his arm, shoulder, and leg—and he acquires new weapon sets as he defeats each maverick boss, which must be equipped before each stage. He can use these three weapons an unlimited number of times but is limited to thase weapons throughout the stage. The bosses change, most notably in the finale where Vile faces X and Zero.
Plot
In a futuristic world, mechanical beings called Reploids coexist with humans. However, several Reploids turn against humanity and cause chaos, resulting in them being labeled "mavericks". The game starts with the Maverick Hunter
X going on a mission to stop the rebellion caused by his former commander,
Sigma
Sigma ( ; uppercase Σ, lowercase σ, lowercase in word-final position ς; ) is the eighteenth letter of the Greek alphabet. In the system of Greek numerals, it has a value of 200. In general mathematics, uppercase Σ is used as an operator ...
.
Playing as X
As the game begins, while pursuing Sigma X instead finds the Maverick Vile, who wants to rule the world on his own term. X is nearly killed in combat but his ally
Zero
0 (zero) is a number representing an empty quantity. Adding (or subtracting) 0 to any number leaves that number unchanged; in mathematical terminology, 0 is the additive identity of the integers, rational numbers, real numbers, and compl ...
saves his life. X and Zero split up to search for Sigma, resulting in more fights against mavericks. In his mission, X learns from mavericks aiding Sigma the leader is interested in seeing his true potential. X also sees holograms of his creator
Dr. Thomas Light, who entrusts him with powers to fight for humanity.
After defeating all eight of Sigma's followers, Zero contacts X with information about Sigma's base. X and Zero infiltrate Sigma's base and eventually encounter Vile again. X and Zero are defeated but Zero uses his last forces to weaken the Maverick. X then defeats Vile, with the dying Zero using his last forces to give the order to continue his mission. X then confronts Sigma, who admires X's growth as a soldier but their different ideologies lead to a one-on-one battle, and Sigma claims X's justice is just something he is being mislead as data rather than free will. Sigma is defeated, the base is destroyed and X escapes. In the final sequence, a memory reveals a human named Dr. Cain found X's body as it was sealed by Dr. Light before he could finish his creation. Cain sees a recording that where Light said he created X with power to think by himself and use to create an utopia where both Reploids and humans can coexist. X then goes on another mission after staring at Zero's empty bike.
Playing as Vile
Vile was a prisoner whom Sigma freed. Vile refuses to join Sigma's rebellion because Sigma refuses to see Vile's potential. Having defeating X, Vile becomes enraged after Zero rescues him, and defeats eight of Sigma's followers to prove himself more worthy. Intrigued, Sigma invites Vile to his base to see his power in action. Around the same time, X and Zero infiltrate the base and corner Vile. Zero distracts Vile long enough for X to incapacitate him. Sigma approaches Vile, asking what he was planning to do after defeating X. Vile succumbs to his wounds, feeling he validated his existence by defeating X.
OVA
Upon completing the game, an
original video animation
, abbreviated as OVA and sometimes as OAV (original animation video), are Japanese animated films and special episodes of a series made specially for release in home video formats without prior showings on television or in theaters, though the ...
(OVA) called ''The Day of Sigma'' is unlocked. Acting as a prequel, it follows Maverick Hunters led by Sigma to face a giant, rebellious mechalonoid. With X unwilling to hurt a hostage, Sigma takes the enemy on and berates X. Sigma later discusses X's potential for free will with Dr. Cain, something Sigma does not see power in. Meanwhile, X and Zero become suspicious about several maverick incidents occurring at the same time. It is revealed Sigma has hacked a massive maverick to distract the hunters as he frees several others including Vile. After disabling Zero, Sigma forces X to remove his weaponry and destroys Abel City, killing Dr. Cain in the process. X then remembers his early days in which Light, who was dying, told X how he gave him the power to develop his own mind and that he entrusts X to use power. X fights back, but only damages Sigma's head. Satisfied with this development, Sigma escapes to start his rebellion, leading to the game's beginning.
Development and release
Capcom
is a Japanese video game company. It has created a number of critically acclaimed and List of best-selling video game franchises, multi-million-selling game franchises, with its most commercially successful being ''Resident Evil'', ''Monster ...
developed and published ''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' for the
PlayStation Portable
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) is a handheld game console developed and marketed by Sony Interactive Entertainment, Sony Computer Entertainment. It was first released in Japan on December 12, 2004, in North America on March 24, 2005, and in PA ...
(PSP)
handheld video game console; it was produced by
Keiji Inafune
is a Japanese video game producer, character designer, game designer, and businessman. In 2009, he was chosen by IGN as one of the top 100 game creators of all time.
Starting his career at Capcom in the late 1980s, his job was as an artist and ...
, who was an artist and writer for the original game, and Tatsuya Kitabayashi. ''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X '' was conceptualized after Inafune discussed whether they should make ''Mega Man X9'' or reboot the series with his development team; they decided to reboot the series because they wanted to take advantage of the PSP's new hardware.
Although the remake follows the original game in both gameplay and storyline, it has new graphics and uses
3D character models and backgrounds, a remixed soundtrack, voice acting and
anime
is a Traditional animation, hand-drawn and computer animation, computer-generated animation originating from Japan. Outside Japan and in English, ''anime'' refers specifically to animation produced in Japan. However, , in Japan and in Ja ...
cutscenes.
The character designs used in ''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' are based on those used for merchandising and ''
Mega Man X8
''Mega Man X8'', known as in Japan, is a 2004 action game, action-platformer, platform game developed by Capcom for the PlayStation 2. It is the eighth game in the ''Mega Man X'' series. It was first released in North America on December 7, 2004 ...
'', which altered the designs to look more human.
Tatsuya Yoshikawa, the game's main artist, enjoyed ''Mega Man X'' for its simple gameplay and storytelling, especially in the introduction. He had problems balancing X's limbs in illustrations and exaggerated Sigma's chin. He also prepared the concept art for each boss character, which were developed by the younger staff. The developers considered Vile's inclusion as a playable character one of the most-outstanding parts of the remake. Some designs were done with the idea of marketing toys. Vile was included as a playable character because Inafune felt having Zero as a playable character was "too obvious and boring".
The Japanese version uses the track "Don't Wanna Be" by Spinwake as opening theme. Before the game's release, Capcom launched a promotion in Japan in which five winners received a script of the game that was signed by five of its voice actors.
''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' was announced in November 2005; Capcom marketing director Todd Thorson said the game is influenced by ''Mega Man X'' and ''Mega Man'', the first series of the franchise. He also said the developers aimed to innovate the classic formula and come up with new challenges for veterans of the series. ''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' was originally released in Japan on December 15, 2005;
in North America on January 31, 2006;
and in Europe on March 3, 2006.
The Japanese and North American versions were bundled in a compilation with ''
Mega Man: Powered Up'', a remake of the original
''Mega Man''.
Reception
''Maverick Hunter X'' received "generally favorable reviews" according to
review aggregator
A review aggregator is a system that collects reviews and ratings of products and services, such as films, books, video games, music, software, hardware, or cars. This system then stores the reviews to be used for supporting a website where user ...
Metacritic
Metacritic is an American website that aggregates reviews of films, television shows, music albums, video games, and formerly books. For each product, the scores from each review are averaged (a weighted average). Metacritic was created ...
, averaging 79/100.
The gameplay was generally praised; Juan Castro of ''
IGN
''IGN'' is an American video gaming and entertainment media website operated by IGN Entertainment Inc., a subsidiary of Ziff Davis, Inc. The company's headquarters is located in San Francisco's SoMa district and is headed by its former e ...
'' stated that it would appeal to new gamers and fans of the original, calling it "intense, fun, and very challenging".
Phil Theobald of ''
GameSpy
GameSpy was an American provider of online multiplayer and matchmaking middleware for video games founded in 1999 by Mark Surfas. After the release of a multiplayer server browser for Quake, QSpy, Surfas licensed the software under the GameS ...
'' praised the large game content and game design, saying the formula of the original series still works properly, but found it too short and familiar for a remake.
Jeremy Parish of ''
1UP.com'' said the visuals were similar to content in ''Mega Man X8'' and live up to the popularity of ''Mega Man X'', expanding on the story without recycling material because Vile's mode relies on new enemies and weapons.
Matt Keller of ''PALGN'' praised the design of the bosses and tactics as well as explained lore. He found the main game to be short but noted the extra content, saying Vile stands out for new weapons the player has and his unique story.
Alex Navarro of ''GameSpot'' found the remake faithful enough to the original game enough to appeal to players but noted some upgrades for the main characters were moved to trick them and make the experience unique; he also called Vile's sidestory and Sigma's backstory the most-surprising new materials.
Critics had mixed feelings about the narrative. Castro praised the animated cutscenes for adding "extra story and character depth" with good production values, but had mixed feelings about the quality of the English voice acting.
Joe Dodson of ''
GameRevolution
Mandatory (formerly CraveOnline Media) is a lifestyle website based in Los Angeles with sales offices in New York City, Chicago and San Francisco. The site is owned by media company Evolve Media, LLC. Mandatory focuses its contents into the male ...
'' initially praised the setting and story for resembling the film ''
Blade Runner
''Blade Runner'' is a 1982 science fiction film directed by Ridley Scott from a screenplay by Hampton Fancher and David Peoples. Starring Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, Sean Young, and Edward James Olmos, it is an adaptation of Philip K. Di ...
'' (1982) but criticized the voice acting and localization, saying these might ruin the appeal of the concept.
Parish said Mark Gatha's performance in ''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' sounds "frothingly pissed-off all the time and feels the need to shout the name of his special weapons every single time he uses them".
Navarro compared the production values with those of
PlayStation 2
The PlayStation 2 (PS2) is a home video game console developed and marketed by Sony Interactive Entertainment, Sony Computer Entertainment. It was first released in Japan on 4 March 2000, in North America on 26 October, in Europe on 24 Novembe ...
games in the series, especially the cutscenes, and found the voice acting not as impressive as the game visuals.
Keller praised the animated cutscenes and OVA as good bonus material, and compared the voice acting to that of localized anime series.
Despite the positive reviews, ''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' was a commercial failure. Inafune had planned to make future remakes of ''Mega Man'' games but poor sales of both ''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' and ''
Mega Man Powered Up
''Mega Man Powered Up'' is a 2006 action-platform game developed and published by Capcom. It was released for the PlayStation Portable (PSP) handheld game console in March 2006. It is a remake of the original '' Mega Man'' game, released in 19 ...
'' shelved future remakes permanently.
''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' became more successful following its inclusion on the
PlayStation Store
PlayStation Store (PS Store) is a digital distribution service for users of Sony's PlayStation 3, PlayStation Vita, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 game consoles via PlayStation Network.
The store offers a range of downloadable content both ...
; in April 2014, it was the tenth-best selling game on the
PlayStation Network
PlayStation Network (PSN) is a digital media entertainment service provided by Sony Interactive Entertainment. Launched in November 2006, PSN was originally conceived for the PlayStation video game consoles, but soon extended to encompass smartp ...
.
In 2011, Capcom announced ''Mega Man Powered Up'' and ''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' would be included in a double pack.
In 2018, ''The Day of Σ'' was included in the video game compilations ''
Mega Man X Legacy Collection
''Mega Man Legacy Collection'' is a series of video game compilations based on Capcom's ''Mega Man'' franchise. Each compilation features several playable video games from one of the ''Mega Man'' sub-series and adds new gameplay features and bonus ...
1'' and ''2''; the full anime was included and remastered in
high-definition video
High-definition video (HD video) is video of higher resolution and quality than standard-definition. While there is no standardized meaning for ''high-definition'', generally any video image with considerably more than 480 vertical scan lines ( ...
but the game was not included, making it and ''
Mega Man X: Command Mission'' the only 3D entries not included. Ollie Reynolds of ''Nintendo Life'' listed ''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' as a game he would like on the
Nintendo Switch
The is a video game console developed by Nintendo and released worldwide in most regions on March 3, 2017. Released in the middle of the Eighth generation of video game consoles, eighth generation of home consoles, the Switch succeeded the ...
alongside ''Mega Man Powered Up''.
In retrospect, ''IGN'' ranked ''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' as the nineteenth-best PSP game ever made. Joe Juba of ''
Game Informer
''Game Informer'' (''GI'' is an American monthly Video game journalism, video game magazine featuring articles, news, strategy, and reviews of video games and video game console, game consoles. It debuted in August 1991, when the video game reta ...
'' regarded the game as one of the best to play on a handheld console due to the impressive new visuals and the innovative inclusion of Vile as playable character. Mike Spletchta of ''Game Zone'' found the remake as enjoyable as the original and suggested gamers try it on the
PlayStation TV
The PlayStation TV (abbreviated to PS TV), known in Japan and other parts of Asia as the PlayStation Vita TV or PS Vita TV, is a microconsole, and a non-handheld variant of the PlayStation Vita handheld game console. It was released in Japan on ...
. ''Retronauts'' praised the game's faithfulness to the original, and found the inclusion of Vile "strange" and "interesting". The site also praised the narrative, which is expanded through lore-extending cutscenes.
Notes
References
External links
*
*
{{Mega Man
2005 video games
Video games about artificial intelligence
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