(Here is my first freelance article: a video game article for the Peoria Journal-Star newspaper’s “Kids Journal-Star” section.)
Power Plays
April 2, 2001
Video game of the week: Mega Man X5.
Format: PlayStation.
Recommended ages: All ages.
How the game works: Mega Man returns in the latest sequel of the spin-off Mega Man X series. The overall feel of the game is similar to Mega Man X4 (also on the PlayStation).
If you have played any of the previous Mega Man games you will feel right at home with X5. Even those who have never played a Mega Man game will have no problems picking up a controller for the first time.
A meteor is on course to collide with Earth in 16 hours, and the Maverick Hunters (a group of good androids) are called upon to save the planet. At the same time, a deadly virus is affecting all robots on Earth. Little do they know that an evil menace is behind the virus and meteor threat. The Hunters have two devices capable of destroying the meteor. Mega Man X and his partner Zero have to collect the parts from eight bosses to rebuild the devices.
The eight-stage format will feel familiar to those who have played other Mega Man games. You can choose which stage to visit at anytime. Each boss is weak against certain weapons, and using the right weapon will make the fight easier. After the early eight, you face bosses from past MM games, as well as a surprise battle.
Collecting items is key to doing well in the game. Collecting heart tanks will give you more life, and finding sub-tanks helps you store extra energy. You can also find extra lives and armor upgrades to increase your abilities.
X5 has a few small problems, but they don’t take away from the game. The control is tougher to handle than the older Mega Man games. For example, dashing and jumping requires practice to get right.
Good points, bad points: X5 gets a B for graphics. The cartoon-like visuals are detailed and full of color (although not as great as games like Castlevania: Symphony of the Night). The graphics suffer due to being on the older PlayStation. A more powerful system like the Dreamcast would have helped greatly. The sound gets a B for the great music. Control is great, but can be a little frustrating for those new to the X series. It deserves a B-plus. In terms of gameplay, the game is a blast to play, but may feel too old for some. Overall, the game deserves a B.
The verdict: If you can get past the similarity to previous Mega Man games, Mega Man X5 is a fun game. It combines the best parts of past MM titles (including references to other MM games), as well as good graphics and cool music. It’s a keeper.
– Trevor Green
TREVOR GREEN 