Ranking the Series: Mega Man X – FAQ and Insights on the Best Mega Man Games
The Mega Man X series is one of the most iconic in action-platformer history. From its original releases on the Super Nintendo to its re-releases on the PlayStation and PSP, the series has captivated gamers with its lightning-fast gameplay, legendary bosses, and epic storytelling. But with so many entries in the franchise, it’s hard to know which game reigns supreme. In this article, we’ll explore the best Mega Man X games, rank them, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the series.
Ranking the Mega Man X Series
10. (Tie) Mega Man X7
Mega Man X7 marked the series' foray into 3D gameplay, and unfortunately, it didn’t go well. The controls were clunky, the camera's angles were maddening, and the level design was inferior to the normal Mega Man X standard. The voice acting, especially the infamous "Burn to the ground!!! " line, does not help the game be taken seriously. While the shift into 3D had promise, X7 never really lives up to the rest of the series. Best Mega Man Games?
10. (Tie) Mega Man X6
Mega Man X6 borrowed a lot of the same gameplay that we loved, but the level design was mad and often cruel. Annoying one-hit kill sections would crop up, and the difficulty curve was too abrupt and non-natural. Additionally, if you didn't have the proper armor equipped, you could easily get stuck in the game. With those flaws, it doesn't possess the 3D disasters of X7, but it's still a game that could have been bettered.
9. Mega Man X: Command Mission
Command Mission tried something new, taking the Mega Man X universe into the realm of RPGs. The story is decent and the gameplay functions, but execution never met expectations. It's a decent game, not one that excels in either the Mega Man X or RPG series. Best Mega Man Game? Far from it.
8. Mega Man Xtreme (1 & 2)
The Xtreme titles introduced Mega Man X to the Game Boy Color with a less successful port of the original gameplay. While the mechanics were not optimally ported to the hardware, the story was an attempt at a new direction. These are playable, but not equivalent to playing the main console games.
7. Mega Man X3
Mega Man X3 added to the previous games with new ride armors, vertical air dashes, and the choice of playing as Zero. It was, however, less refined than previously. Level design was imperfect, with secrets being illogically obvious or simply too apparent. With the core gameplay, it was still an entertaining installment, although not quite the best in the series.
6. Mega Man X5
While Mega Man X5 added some wonderful ideas, it also had some confusing mechanics. The clock countdown influenced the game's story and at times became annoying. But it's far from a bad game—just slightly more complex than it needed to be.
5. Mega Man X8
Following the X6 and X7 trainwrecks, Mega Man X8 took the series back to its side-scrolling roots. You may have been allowed to play as X, Zero, or Axl, and the dual attacks feature added another layer of strategy. The level design improved so much, and being able to mix armor components together was a great addition to the game.
Mega Man X8 proved that the series was far from dead even though the previous games had failed.
4. Mega Man: Maverick Hunter X
A remake of the original Mega Man X, this PSP version offered better graphics and a fresh spin on classic gameplay. Remaining true to its predecessor, it made subtle changes to level design and capsule placement, making it a well-deserved return visit. Being Vile was a unique change of pace, though the game suffered because of the PSP hardware.
3. Mega Man X4
This was a huge leap forward for the series, as it was the first to be planned out for the PlayStation. It included Zero as a playable character, and the levels were more detailed and vibrant than ever. The game was silky-smooth, the music memorable, and X4 is often cited as one of the greatest Mega Man X games for a reason.
2. Mega Man X2
X2 expanded on everything that made the first Mega Man X so good. With great controls, great level design, and the addition of optional bosses, X2 is often named one of the best Mega Man X games. It also took advantage of the Super NES's graphical potential, and it's a standout of the series.
1. Mega Man X
The original Mega Man X remains the benchmark against which others in the series are measured. With perfect level design, one of the all-time great soundtracks, and gameplay that was faster and more acrobatic than its predecessor, Mega Man X set the standard. New moves such as the dash and the wall jump revolutionized the gameplay. Mega Man X is the definitive best Mega Man game, and many have described it as one of the greatest 16-bit games ever.
Mega Man X FAQ
1. What is the best Mega Man X game?
If we're being forced to pick, Mega Man X (1993) takes it. It introduced the new features, improved gameplay, and wonderful soundtrack that defined the series.2. Why did Mega Man X7 fail?
The move to 3D game play in Mega Man X7 was clumsy, with slow controls, frustrating camera work, and poor boss design. It did not live up to the series and disappointed fans.3. Can I play Mega Man X on modern consoles?
Yes, Mega Man X is playable via the Mega Man X Legacy Collection on the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One consoles. It is also playable on PC and accessible via Nintendo Switch Online.4. Is Mega Man X5 worth playing?
While it’s not the best in the series, Mega Man X5 still offers solid gameplay and an interesting storyline. It has some frustrating mechanics, but it’s worth playing if you’re a fan of the series.5. What makes Mega Man X4 stand out
Mega Man X4 is one of the popular games among fans because it has PlayStation-era graphics, smooth gameplay, and it also features Zero as a character who can be played. The dual characters and special abilities provided an added layer of gameplay.Conclusion: The Mega Man X series bettered with time, with some better received than others, but the legacy of Mega Man X cannot be denied. Whether you’re a newcomer or a long-time fan, there’s a game in the series for everyone. Mega Man X (1993) will always hold a special place in the hearts of fans, but games like Mega Man X4 and Mega Man X2 have earned their spot among the best.
Happy gaming!