Mega Man 9

Mega Man 9 (WiiWare) Review

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 by Corbie Dillard

The Blue Bomber is back - but has this trip down memory lane been worth the wait?

There's no denying that the NES Mega Man series was a huge hit for Capcom during the 8-bit era. The games enjoyed mammoth success for Capcom and probably single-handedly sold many an NES console in the process. Although the series and its spinoffs have continued to prosper over the years, many Mega Man faithful still consider the original 8-bit releases the best the series has to offer. Capcom obviously sensed this when they made the decision to develop a brand new Mega Man title and model it so closely after the original NES titles. Not only does Mega Man 9 look, sound, and play just like the original 8-bit offerings, it comes jam-packed with the same controller-tossing difficulty as well.

It goes without saying that anyone who has ever played a Mega Man title before will quickly feel right at home with the gameplay in this offering; the entire package is pretty much a carbon-copy of the 8-bit Mega Man games from start to finish. You're faced with 8 robots that you can randomly choose at the level select screen. You are then required to play through the level until you reach the robot boss at the end. There are generally two checkpoints throughout each level; one at the midpoint and one at the entrance to the robot's lair. Once you defeat the robot boss you are given the robot's main weapon; this makes choosing the order of the levels that you play important as certain weapons will make beating many of the tougher robots more manageable.

You start the game with your standard arm cannon -- the weapon you'll most likely find yourself using most of the time. One button fires the cannon and the other makes Mega Man jump: how high depends on how long you hold the button down. As you gain various special weapons you can access them by selecting them on the game's sub-menu. You'll then see the special weapon's gauge appear next to your life gauge. You can continue to use the special weapons as long as you have energy left in your gauge, but as a rule it's best to save these special weapons for the tougher sections of the game, such as the boss fights at the end of each level. As you defeat enemies they'll drop various power-ups such as energy pods to refill Mega Man's life gauge.

While there are plenty of action sequences that require use of the arm cannon and special weapons, the majority of your time will be spent jumping from platform to platform. Everything from rotating platforms to platforms that disappear and reappear will challenge each and every step you take. Of course you'll have to deal with the constant barrage of enemies and their fire on top of everything else. If this sounds overly difficult, that's because it is. Mega Man 9 is pretty steep as far as challenge goes, going even beyond the high level of difficulty found in the original 8-bit releases, if you can believe such a thing. Having said that, it's worth noting that while there is a high degree of difficulty, it never feels cheap.

The gameplay control is smooth and responsive, providing you with all the tools necessary to play through the game successfully. Of course it takes a lot of repetition during each level in order to do so, as you learn enemy patterns and map out the best route through each screen. The levels might not be terribly long but you certainly won't blow through them in any hurry either, at least not without shedding countless lives in the process. It's worth stating that if you're easily frustrated, Mega Man 9 is not a game you'll want to spend much time with, but those who can appreciate a real challenge will get more than their money's worth.

Mega Man 9 does offer a few new twists not found in the classic titles. The "Time Attack Mode" allows you to play to earn the fastest level time possible and displays your current time in the upper-right corner of the screen. You have access to every special weapon in the game, regardless of whether or not you've earned the weapon during the regular game mode. If you achieve a good enough time your name is added to the rankings, which are tallied via wi-fi for each level. You can choose to view the rankings at any time from the main menu.

The game also features 50 "Challenges" that resemble the achievements found on many Xbox Live Arcade titles. These range from completing the game in a set amount of time to playing through the game multiple times and beyond. Some of these challenges seem readily attainable while others seem downright twisted in their difficulty. These features obviously add some replay value to the game as they give you something to shoot for once you've beaten the regular game. Couple that with the host of bonus downloadable content and you have quite the well-rounded package - not too shabby for a game that only takes up a mere 66 blocks of storage space.

Anyone who's seen screenshots of Mega Man 9 in action knows that Capcom wanted to give it a classic 8-bit look and feel. It's safe to say that they've not only come through with flying colours, but the game could easily pass as an NES release without any trouble whatsoever, right down to the 4:3 aspect ratio. All of the vibrant colours and pixelated sprites that came to be such a huge part of the early Mega Man series are intact and looking as blissfully nostalgic as ever.

As has been mentioned before, Capcom has included something called a "Legacy Mode" that adds a bit of flicker and slowdown to further authenticate the classic look of the game. While it's extremely minor, and certainly not of a scope as that found on the original NES releases, it's still a nice touch nonetheless. As with other Mega Man titles, each level gets its own unique theme that closely resembles that of the robot that inhabits it. While there will inevitably be those who will criticize the game for its dumbed-down visuals and lack of modern visual conveniences, classic Mega Man fans will undoubtedly enjoy the visual trip down memory lane. It's so convincing that if you didn't know better, you'd swear you were playing on an NES system.

In keeping with the 8-bit theme of the presentation, Capcom has also served up an NES-style soundtrack to go along with the visuals. The very same upbeat musical stylings found in the classic Mega Man titles have been faithfully recreated and you won't find a bad tune in the entire game. Each stage features its own unique musical track and most of the tunes are long enough to avoid becoming overly repetitive during repeated trips through each level. Even the sound effects come off like they were taken directly from an NES title. Capcom should really be commended for the job they did in keeping with the classic Mega Man theme both from a visual and musical standpoint.

Conclusion

You have to appreciate what Capcom has pulled off with the release of Mega Man 9. Not many companies would be willing to take a chance on making an 8-bit game in an era where video games tend to look more like motion pictures than the pixelated affairs of the '80s. Sure, the game isn't much to look at and it's still odd to hear the NES-style music blaring through a Dolby Surround Sound system, but when you get right down to it, there's just something incredibly satisfying and unique about playing a completely original 8-bit Mega Man title almost 15 years since the last NES release. About the only thing that might be construed as a negative aspect might be the rather brutal difficulty of the game; this is definitely not a title for the faint of heart. If you're a classic Mega Man fan, then this is without a shadow of a doubt the game you've been waiting all these years for. And for those who never got the chance to experience the outstanding early releases, here's your chance.

Read our Scoring Policy

9/10

More About This Game...

Metacritic score: 84

1. chunky_droid 23 Sep 2008, 09:03 GMT

Sounds absolutely awesome

Is it in actual surround, or comes out like VC NES games through your stereo?

Sorry to the two guys below me! Totally got the first post by accident

2. Falk Sturmfels 23 Sep 2008, 09:04 GMT

Yeah, first man here - just stupid, as a german I can´t get it yet.

It sounds good, that the game is heavily to beat - I made all 12 Levels from Wild West Guns within 3 hours. This one will be a harder test, I guess. And good to see, that Capcom did their best.

Oh, the other guy was quicker ... nevermind, great game.

3. calculon 23 Sep 2008, 09:04 GMT

Good review Corbie. Yay!, first post - I hope - doh!

4. Corbie 23 Sep 2008, 09:04 GMT

It doesn't sound Pro Logic to me. Sounds about like the other VC games.

5. Damo 23 Sep 2008, 09:06 GMT

Great review Corbie, as always!

6. Link79 23 Sep 2008, 09:25 GMT

Oh come on. It's not that hard. Your gonna scare people away with all that extremely difficult talk. Ninja Gaiden 1 on NES is harder than this.
I had been practicing with the older Mega man games before I played this one so that might be why I'm so used to it but It's not quite on the same difficulty level as Contra. Mega man games can be difficult but I've never thrown a controller across the room playing one.

7. Dazza 23 Sep 2008, 09:31 GMT

@Link79 - I just played through Mega Man 2 in anticipation of this and it certainly is a lot harder than that. The most important thing is the difficulty never feels unfair, and with practice you can find a route through eventually.

Younger gamers who might be new to the series are going to find this punishing, there is no denying that. This is a old skool run n' gun for those who don't need checkpoints every 2 seconds.

Great review Corbie, you really summed it all up nicely as always. I am pretty hopeless at this so far, but loving it. An essential download in my eyes for everyone. :-p

8. Corbie 23 Sep 2008, 09:44 GMT

I find Contra much easier than Mega Man 9. I just wanted to make sure everyone knew that the game had a high degree of difficulty, especially those who were not familiar with the 8-bit Mega Man titles. And since I spend the majority of my free time playing Ikaruga, I know a tough game when I see it.

9. Twilight Crow 23 Sep 2008, 09:52 GMT

Great review Corbie, very complete , I also gave MM9 a 9/10. This is the retro game I wanted, an instant classic with great music and gameplay, man, as hard as it is, this thing is just so much fun.

@Link79
Are you kidding? I can finish Ninja Gaiden in about an hour, but I've played this for hours and I still get killed by some traps and bosses, you must be very good, but don't forget the challenges, some of those are hard indeed.

10. Dbc 23 Sep 2008, 09:54 GMT

Yes ..Can't wait for this one anymore now that i've seen the review.
Hope that gradius will be another classic on wiiware ,cause this one is a 8-bit classic in a era of next-gen consoles and computers..
We want more classics on wiiware ..Bring it on!!!

11. Kirk 23 Sep 2008, 09:54 GMT

The one thing this game does prove is the old adage of gameplay over graphics.

I think based on this we may see a lot of games in the future that focus far less on pushing the very boundaries of current graphics technology and instead really focus on creating solid fun gameplay experiences.

Now as long as that doesn't mean we end up getting shit graphics then I'm all for that.

Keep the graphics relevant and up-to-date but also make sure the underlying gameplay is there to match.

12. Mayhem 23 Sep 2008, 10:10 GMT

A review so early? I hope you've completed the game Corbie

But I'm really enjoying it so far, even though the bloody platforms on Tornado Man keep annoying me so. It IS hard, and this coming from someone who's played all six NES Mega Man titles and the SNES Mega Man 7 and the three SNES MMX titles. A lot. It's awakening parts of my skill set and tactics that had become rusty over time, practice makes perfect! I can almost get to the end of the Tornado level now most times. Once I get there, I think I should be able to complete it consistantly...

13. zoipi 23 Sep 2008, 11:57 GMT

Yeah, a nine. Just as i spected!

14. Supermarioman 23 Sep 2008, 12:01 GMT

Great Review as usual Corbie. I knew it wouldn't be a 10. No game will reach that. Did you realize that Nintendo Power has only given out 2 perfects: Super Smash Bros. Brawl and Metroid Prime 3. I doubt any wiiware game will get a perfect ever. Hey wiiware-worls and corbie haw would ou feel about letting Corbie have a chance of reviewing it? For some reason I can trust his reviews more then anyone elses. Please crobie your the best reviewier, no offense to anone else...

15. Supermarioman 23 Sep 2008, 12:03 GMT

Sorry if the last part is too kidish, don't blame me so much, I'm only 11.....

16. AlexSays 23 Sep 2008, 12:05 GMT

Personally, I'd give it a 10.
I can't see any WiiWare game offering more than this one does.

Hopefully this stays #1 on the Shop Channel for a while.
It might inspire other developers to take the same route.

@ supermarioman- I don't think a game needs to be perfect to be given a 10.
If that was the case, what's the point in having a 1-10 review scale if you'll never use?
And I think Corbie is more active on the site than most reviewers, so he's a little bit more popular.

17. chunky_droid 23 Sep 2008, 12:09 GMT

I guess it depends on the individual, I find Mega Man games to be not so difficult, I finished Mega Man 2 overnight when I was 9 years old. Though I played it A LOT as it was rented from the video store! I had trouble finishing Ninja Gaiden 5 months ago and I'm now 25!

Then again, I may have just had better reflexes back then too

18. AlexSays 23 Sep 2008, 12:13 GMT

@ chunky_droid- Mega Man 9 is about ten times harder than Mega Man 2.
After playing this, you won't think you're as good as you claim you are.

19. chunky_droid 23 Sep 2008, 12:18 GMT

x.SuperMario.x - I wasn't claiming to be good! Ninja Gaiden owned my arse

20. Boringman54 23 Sep 2008, 12:31 GMT

Once I get my next paycheck, I'm so getting this. Also, Mega Man 2 and some downloadable content for this!

21. slangman 23 Sep 2008, 12:34 GMT

Fantastic review. I hope i get my Wii back from repairs in time for this. I have never been excited about getting a game since Brawl came out.

22. Objection_Blaster 23 Sep 2008, 12:36 GMT

Good review. I think it is crucial to note the game's difficulty, as it can be a factor in one's enjoyment of the title. I am undecided about whether or not to get it since difficult games usualy piss me off, but I might just get MM9 with my next card. I'll letcha know if I do

23. tantrumario 23 Sep 2008, 12:54 GMT

NO 10! OMG! But still atleast its your first 9(well second on wiiware world)

24. AlexSays 23 Sep 2008, 12:58 GMT

@ tamtrumario- His first 9?
He also reviewed Final Fantasy and Lost Winds.
And yes, I'm not sure how I knew that either. I must be a fan.

25. worrybomb 23 Sep 2008, 13:00 GMT

It's true. This game isn't for the faint at heart and while to me this game is really pretty, I can understand why people would dismiss its retro graphics. Nevertheless, if you are the slightest video game aficionado that's looking for something different, look no further. It's really a great title not just for retro gamers but for new gamers alike as well. Welcome back Mega!

In other news, whether you think VGChartz.com is a reliable source or not, they are reporting that Mega Man 9 sales reached 60,000 in one day...outselling all but six WiiWare games in lifetime sales. The link can be found below:

http://news.vgchartz.com/news.php?id=2096

How many downloads will Mega Man 9 receive by the end of the week? Will it be more than Capcom's other recent retro game? We'll have to wait and see. =)

26. breaderer 23 Sep 2008, 13:16 GMT

yay, not a 7! (jk)

27. Tony 23 Sep 2008, 13:22 GMT

Beating Mega Man 2 is not a good gauge of the series. Its the easiest of the Mega Man Series.(but its still challenging)
I know people will not like this comment, but how about adding an easier difficulty mode as DLC. Just a thought as it would still give players the option to select difficulty.

28. AlexSays 23 Sep 2008, 13:25 GMT

@ Tony- I think that's a great idea.
My girlfriend was watching me embarrass myself before she left for school this morning.
It'd be pretty cool if I could download the easy difficulty, and look like I've mastered the game for when she gets back.

29. zss_shadow 23 Sep 2008, 13:27 GMT

Hey, where's that rating of a 7 we were promised?

30. Kawaiipikachu 23 Sep 2008, 13:41 GMT

@zss_shadow
Corbie was jocking in the past i never took that comment myself as a serious comment .

@Corbie
Great review & i love reading every bit off it even without ant intention of downloading it .

66 blocks it must be the smalles WiiWare game ever .
Well if a real NES game takes only a few blocks there is no need for a fake NES game to blout out to a few hundred blocks .

31. andy836 23 Sep 2008, 13:43 GMT

hey megaman 9 got a 9 lol sorry

32. thewiirocks 23 Sep 2008, 14:19 GMT

9/10? Come on Corbie, you should have just given it a 10. We wouldn't have minded!

One thing I do disagree with is that MM9 looks exactly like an NES game. The developers definitely did a good job of evoking that sense (especially if you leave the flicker and tearing on), but there are several aspects the NES simply wasn't capable of. Two that stand out immediately are the colors and minimal flicker.

The palette on stages like Jewel Man and Plug Man are far too rich in blues and purples to come from the NES's ruddy palette. Similarly, there are areas where the NES would run out of sprites and make characters flicker like mad or become invisible until they move up or down.

These graphics look GREAT and I doubt many players would notice the difference. But the differences are there, so don't expect a cartridge any time soon.

Otherwise an excellent review, as usual!

33. Terranigma 23 Sep 2008, 14:38 GMT

I was sure this would be a 9. I will get this when released. I want it bad

34. ReaperJ21 23 Sep 2008, 14:59 GMT

@ tony- I agree wth you, since most of us are starting school, we don't have much free time to play through a VERY hard game, an easier difficultywould be nice, but to be honest, i just wanna download it

35. That Guy from Faxanadu 23 Sep 2008, 15:14 GMT

A definite buy, I was hoping for a 9 too

The game as you describe it sounds real good, a tough challenge is just what I want. Only thing I worry about is that it could be Contra 4 (DS) hard! Contra 4 is a very good game, but unfortunatly too hard for almost everyone. I´ve never cleared the 2:nd level on Normal difficulty. But Mega Man 9 isn´t THAT hard, is it?

36. Herzlos 23 Sep 2008, 15:16 GMT

WANT! I just played Rockman World / Mega Man: Dr. Wily's Revenge as a kid, lend it from a friend. Found at for 5,00 € at a store (used) and picked it up. I constatly play it during Lunchbreak and managed to arrive at Wily Stage 2...

I guess I just pick up a Wii Points Card today, just to get sure, to have enough Wii Points for this gem to arrive. Guess I will get Protoman, too and spend the last Wii Points (I have some left, I guess...) for Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars.

37. CEW 23 Sep 2008, 15:23 GMT

Great game!! Got it yesterday. I loved playing Mega Man 1 and 2 back in the day. This game is just awesome. Hard but awesome. Great review. I'm playing all night tonight!!!

38. Gabbo 23 Sep 2008, 15:54 GMT

@Supermarioman
Here's the thing. If I had reviewed this game, we'd all still be waiting for me to successfully beat even one boss. So Corbie, thanks for throwing yourself on the grenade. In times like these we really need you!

39. deadly.by.design 23 Sep 2008, 16:36 GMT

Concrete Man is the only boss I've managed to beat. Tornado Man's stage was easy enough to finish without one death, but I proceeded to fail in his boss lair. Oh well.

Great game so far. Gloriously difficult, painstakingly thorough in its recreation, and lovingly tuned in 8-bit majesty.

40. Marvel_Maniac 23 Sep 2008, 17:15 GMT

I find this review to be very fair and thorough. I appreciate the lack of "fanboy fervor" that could have accompanied and even coloured the rating. This is really a great game. I've made it as far as one of the last battles with Wily and I've died many many times in getting there. I would however say that the levels do get easier as you find those little methods for exploiting the stages.

I won't ruin for anyone which weapons you should use on which bosses, but I will tell you that they aren't always easy to guess or anticipate. Mega Man 2, this is not. That Concrete Shot is amazing though. You'll use it throughout the game, espeically in Wily's Castle.

41. Icyfrodo 23 Sep 2008, 17:18 GMT

I HAVE to download this

42. Serpent 23 Sep 2008, 17:32 GMT

Awesome review, i agree with everything said.

so far i have only beat Concrete man, Hornet man and splash woman in that order.

43. Thomas 23 Sep 2008, 17:40 GMT

Great review. I especially agree with the notion that the difficulty doesn't feel cheap.

44. Drizzt 23 Sep 2008, 18:23 GMT

WHAT?! IT DIDN'T GET A 10?
Just kidding .
Great review for a great game.

45. WiX 23 Sep 2008, 18:38 GMT

Awesome! This made me 200% sure of buying this (when before I was "only" 100% sure)! Good review and this sounds so good that I want to play it right now! Sadly, I have to wait three more days... But something good is worth waiting! And when I finally get my hands on Wiimote and the difficultiness of this game... Also, the challenges will keep me with this game for even more time and DLC is totally worth waiting too! Especially Proto Man and the new stage! How is Capcom able to do something like this? They're... awesome!

I really hope that this becomes a new fashion, because something like new old Sonic or Mario would be really cool! Old school rules (But the new one isn't bad either)! Hmm... Is Mega Man 10 possible? Maybe I should first play this one and that probably takes some time

46. AlexSays 23 Sep 2008, 18:41 GMT

I feel sorry for any casual gamers who saw this and thought, "Hm, looks like fun little game."

I've played for an hour and I've only beaten two levels. lol

47. Wiiloveit 23 Sep 2008, 18:42 GMT

I told myself that I wasn't going to check out WWW until Friday because of all of the Mega Man goings on (DAMN YOU AMERICA AND JAPAN), but I finally decided to check you guys out again. Damn my feeble mind.

I no can't wait for the game even more, and have several rifles ready* for if Capcom don't release it this Friday in the UK.

*Police/New Scotland Yard - this was a joke (looks around shiftily)

48. MarkyVigoroth 23 Sep 2008, 18:50 GMT

BLITZNAK! Rockman 9 did not get a 10! (Then again, people talked about its difficulty...)

49. Corbie 23 Sep 2008, 19:41 GMT

As always I appreciate the kind words. I really enjoyed reviewing this game, probably more than any other WiiWare title so far. While it was a difficult game, I found it to be just the nostalgic Mega Man experience I was hoping it would be. I think Mega Man fans, and WiiWare fans in general, are going to enjoy the game and it doesn't surprise me in the least that this game has already broken WiiWare sales records. I'm excited for European gamers to get their hands on it now.

50. JoshZTP 23 Sep 2008, 20:02 GMT

Great review... way better than freaking IGN's!
Maybe somewhere in this WiiWareWorld review you should've mentioned/pointed out that the graphics don't matter and IGN was stupid enough to give it a low score in their review, hahahaha!

51. Loooca 23 Sep 2008, 20:03 GMT

Great review! Though, I still think the graphics are a tad "prettier" than I expected, or how NES-like everyone expected them to be. I really thought everything was going to be bulky and 8-bit; and while they are, I still find it pretty. Even prettier than Mega Man 2.

Glad you mentioned the difficulty. While yes, most claim to be "masters" in the Mega Man saga, this game doesn't really deal with masters. I haven't played a Mega Man game in ages, so I'm all kinds of rusty at the moment. I managed to finish and destroy my first boss on the first night of downloading it — after countless falls, game overs and much grunting. The game depends on a little bit of trial and error, lots of skills and hours of patience.

(I just pity the new gamers, or those that never played a Mega Man game before. They better get ready for a shock! Oh, and those Xbox user who are raving about their rankings list...? What's up with that, people.)

Again, a great ( fanboy-free! ) review and a well deserved score. Kudos!

52. Drizzt 23 Sep 2008, 20:03 GMT

I'm glad it's selling so well. Other game creators were tracking this as well, weren't they? I'm talking about Mr. Igarashi (Castlevania)! I hope to see Sega and Nintendo get in on the action with Sonic 4 and Super Metroid 2.

53. Tony 23 Sep 2008, 20:15 GMT

I actually plan on downloading this after Bomberblast comes out.
I do hope they add a easier difficulty, but that will not deter me from downloading it. I was just thinking since the AC collection allowed for and easier difficulty and remixed music it would make for some cool DLC. Overall great review Corbie

54. MegaRockman 1990 23 Sep 2008, 20:29 GMT

3 hours 31 minutes and 2 days left for a possible european release i am so hyped up for this game have been a huge megaman fan since the first megaman on nes was released and going back to the roots of megaman doing everything in 8-bit is like a dream coming true for me i know its sounds corny but it is for me Thanks Capcom and the staff especially you Keji Inafune you are the greatest .
I have listened for a long time on the megaman 9 soundtrack now in anticipation for it so i can imagine the stages and enemys in the game its enough for the moment (i don't wont to destroy the expirence by watching a bunch of videos on the web) the music is awesome i actually think its the best soundtrack of the megaman 1-9 games with megaman 2 and 3 on a tied 2nd.
what do you guys/girls in the Us say about the music in the game how would you compare it to other installments of the series?
PS: Great review Corbie

55. Satan's Therapist 23 Sep 2008, 20:30 GMT

Drizzt: and hopefully streets of rage 4

56. Kevin 23 Sep 2008, 20:47 GMT

No 10? Boooo.

57. PuppetMasterKuruku 23 Sep 2008, 21:05 GMT

Yeah, I'm hoping for IGA to go through with WiiWare Castlevania, and I wouldn't mind a 2D Metroid on the service either.

But the series that needs it most is Sonic. We really need another good 16-bit Sonic.

58. Corbie 23 Sep 2008, 21:09 GMT

Those are three games I'd love to see on the WiiWare service. You never know now that Mega Man 9 has been so successful. Maybe other developers will get the hint.

59. DaVeMaN99 23 Sep 2008, 21:17 GMT

Excellent review, and amazing game. I really want nintendo to release mother 3 on wiiware, even if its 2000 points, il still buy it, but thats after they release earthbound.

60. SupermarketZombies 23 Sep 2008, 21:26 GMT

Megaman!!! Now they need to release another Megaman Legends and I'll be set. I'll be downloaded this soon enough

61. Objection_Blaster 23 Sep 2008, 21:41 GMT

@Supermarkeyzombie-Hell yes. MML on VC and MML3 on Wiiware!
And I would totally buy a DLC that is an Easy Mode. After buying MM9. Which I DO plan to do. Hope I don't punch a wall or punt-kick my dog in frustration. Just kidding. _{Or am i?}

62. BlackFira 23 Sep 2008, 21:53 GMT

well we need the next awsome game megaman 64

63. i_am_error 23 Sep 2008, 22:01 GMT

I like this game very much so far, some stages are quite cool - some others I still can't get through. The music is very very good.

64. shadows262 23 Sep 2008, 22:05 GMT

i love!! MM9 but its sorta difficult in some points

65. Fleeman 23 Sep 2008, 22:42 GMT

60,000 units the first day

66. WeeGee 23 Sep 2008, 23:51 GMT

Man, I was hoping it would get a 10.

67. Chipmunk777 24 Sep 2008, 00:22 GMT

@deadly.by.design

Try Galaxy Man, he's easy. His stage is also probably the easiest of the 8.

@Objection Blaster

Ooooh! I'm glad you decided to buy it! You won't be disappointed (although you may make a few holes in your TV )

Anyway, great review Corbie! (as always ) This is the best wiiware game yet. Excellently executed by Capcom. Amazingly NESque. The game is definitely hard. It took me about 2 hours of play to beat one boss (because I tried Galaxy Man last )

68. Diebythesword 24 Sep 2008, 00:46 GMT

MEGA MAN 9!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

69. Clayfrd 24 Sep 2008, 00:56 GMT

This game is maddening(ly fun). I love it.

@Dazza - Am I the exception to the rule? I'm a relatively young gamer (15), but I love maddening games! My colleagues, however, in general don't care for the classics to the extent that I do, although few do things to the extent that I do (I have an obsessive personality). Anyway, yay Mega Man 9.

70. MarkyVigoroth 24 Sep 2008, 01:38 GMT

SupermarketZombies-san, I know this is out of topic, yet I always liked you avatar! (What is its origin?)

71. Objection_Blaster 24 Sep 2008, 01:44 GMT

@MarkyVigoroth-It's Dragon Quest/ Warrior. I remember seeing that monster in DQVIII for PS2.

72. shadows262 24 Sep 2008, 02:06 GMT

next bomberman blast, tetris party, gradius rebirth, world of goo and so on haha

73. shadows262 24 Sep 2008, 02:07 GMT

now i want to get wario land for wii and kirby super star for DS

74. Final_Starman 24 Sep 2008, 02:28 GMT

I was expecting a 10, but 9 is still off the charts. It sounds like a great game, but points come rarely for me and 8 games is enough classic Mega Man for me.

75. BlueRider 24 Sep 2008, 03:45 GMT

This game is so good i can't stop playing it am so addicted to it this was worth my ten bucks of course because am a Megaman die hard fan yes!
= )

76. Enslaven00bs 24 Sep 2008, 04:06 GMT

Crap like My Life As a King got a 9. This game deserves a 10.

77. Clayfrd 24 Sep 2008, 04:11 GMT

@shadows262(#73) - Those games are the two that I'm getting next too. You've got good taste, friend. They came out along with MM9, what a day!

78. lockelocke 24 Sep 2008, 04:11 GMT

Great review!
I was kind of shocked by the difficulty of MM9, I'll totally agree that its more challenging than any of the original 8-bit installments, and I played through them all. 9 is a totally fair score, but I'd just like to add that for any die hard Mega Man fan, this game is a total perfect 10, spend money now!

Oh, and by the way, for anyone who's played through the robot bosses, is there an additional Wiley's lab area?

79. Mario64DStyle 24 Sep 2008, 04:11 GMT

If this insanely popular game didn't get a 10.. what could?

80. lockelocke 24 Sep 2008, 04:13 GMT

Popularity doesn't make the score

81. Mario64DStyle 24 Sep 2008, 04:13 GMT

Also.. "now i want to get wario land for wii and kirby super star for DS"

I'm so mad I sold my DS =_=
I sold it over like 2 years ago.. when I felt like it was dying.. but it's been coming out with so many amazing games... almost enough to make me want to buy it again =|

82. Mario64DStyle 24 Sep 2008, 04:16 GMT

@lockelocke

Doesn't a game get popular by being amazing?

83. lockelocke 24 Sep 2008, 04:19 GMT

Any word on the question marked modes, or are those for the DLC??

@64DStyle
Got me there, =P
But there are obvious exceptions, especially with WiiWare

84. XCWarrior 24 Sep 2008, 04:31 GMT

Only getting a 9 because it is so difficult. That means its a sure fire 10/10 from me. Though I'm still on Mega Man 4 in the Mega Man Anv Coll, so it will be awhile before I pick this up. Gotta go in order!

85. Corbie 24 Sep 2008, 04:38 GMT

I never saw any of the original Mega Man titles get a perfect 10 in any magazine back in the day, and since this is basically the same thing for the most part, why should it get a 10?

86. Mario64DStyle 24 Sep 2008, 04:46 GMT

@Corbie

Thats like asking, why should anything get a 10?
In theory, no man made object/thing can be perfect

87. Corbie 24 Sep 2008, 04:51 GMT

I just couldn't see giving out a 10 this early in the game considering we still have a long way to go with the WiiWare service and in all honesty something much better could still come along. It's a bit like the person that brought up the 9 I gave Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles. You see what giving that a 9 did. It set a precedent for future reviews and now every 9 I give will be compared back to all the games that received that score before it. Giving Mega Man 9 a perfect score would have done the very same thing. Not to mention the flood of people who would scream that I was crazy for giving a 2008 game that looks, sounds, and plays like a 15 year old NES game a perfect 10. It's lose/lose. I felt like a 9 was the right score and I went with it.

88. Technics1200s 24 Sep 2008, 06:53 GMT

Coming from an '84-born gamer whose childhood revolved around Mega Man, I can say that this game is absolutely flawless!! My generation of gamers will be so pleased with this "new-stalgic" game! In less than 24 hours, this game made the #1 rank for most popular Wii-ware download (I'm hardly surprised). So Capcom, I'm going to ask the million-dollar question: when are we going to see 16-bit SNES style Mega Man X9? I'll be keeping my fingers crossed for that big announcement!!

89. Corbie 24 Sep 2008, 06:56 GMT

Man I feel old.

90. DjinnFighter 24 Sep 2008, 13:12 GMT

is it just me, or the game is kinda easier than the old megaman games ? I beat easily the eight bosses, now it's time for the long and last level. Maybe the difficulty is in that level ?

But the game is awesome ! I love it ! I bought Spore this month, but I prefer Mega Man 9 lol.

PS : Plug Man level is awesome.

91. Tony 24 Sep 2008, 13:42 GMT

Even games that get a 10 are not perfect.
I can't wait for Mega Man 10 and some new robot masters like sawdust man, lemon juice man, the million dollar man, and shag carpet man. That game is gonna rock!

92. tasthomas 24 Sep 2008, 15:11 GMT

I'm a long-time fan of Mega Man. It was my favorite series on the NES. I agree with Corbie on his review 9 out of 10. This is also the score I give to Mega Man 2. I would give the only 10 in the series to Mega Man 3. I felt like that game focused more on "combat" than on "platforming". I loved Mega Man 2 and I LOVE Mega Man 9! Personally, I feel like it had too many tricky platforming areas with instant death possibility (i.e. holes, spikes, or magma) Those of you like this, then this game is a 10 for you. I loved all the giant mini-bosses in three, where shooting them was like hitting the broad side of a barn, but their attacks were powerful. Though a small thing, I prefer having the slide maneuver available; this also added to "combat" of MM3. However, I am glad that they stayed away from the charged shot with the mega buster that was introduced inMM4; I felt that this let you be too powerful without getting any weapons. I also would have like some sort of melee attack (i.e. the top spin from MM3 or charge slide from MM5). Again, if you like all the tricky platforming, then MM9 is a perfect 10. For me it would have been a 10 with more focus on combat, add the slide, and a melee attack.

93. Marvel_Maniac 24 Sep 2008, 18:29 GMT

Again, this debate relates back to my comments on the Metroid review on VC-reviews. If we're going to deal with "retro" reviews for retro games (and lets face it, Mega Man 9 might be new, but it is a retro game) then there should probably be two ratings. 1 official rating that gets published for comparison (and this should probably be consistantly aimed at either casual gamers or hardcore gamers) to other reviews and then a secondary set of comments resulting in a secondary review.

So, for example, one could say that for the casual gamer, one that isn't necessarily dedicated to difficult platforming, or someone who doesn't have any nostalia to bolster their opinion- this review could be give the causal gamer a 8/10.

No worries though, because the hardcore review should then be free to say 10/10 for you platform junkies. I think this style of reviewing is truely necessary. The point of reading a review is to see whether or not one should purchase the game. I mean, that's really the whole point, isn't it? So let's do what we can to make it more clear on what we mean when we give a final numerical rating.

Personally I think this particular review tries to do that, althought the points could have been hammered home a little more. This debate is pretty much unneccessary when you consider that.

94. Doogle 24 Sep 2008, 18:59 GMT

@Marvel_Maniac - Two reviews aimed at different types of readers? What an odd idea, how would anyone know which review applied to them?

I think this review is actually really well balanced and takes both sides of the argument into account. I haven't played MM9 yet, but I now have a clear idea of what to expect.

Some people just strike me as really lazy, they want the rating to tell them EVERYTHING. People need to read the whole review for themselves to decide if the game would suit them or not.

Two reviews and two ratings on the same site? Madness I say! :-p

95. Objection_Blaster 24 Sep 2008, 19:58 GMT

While I also kinda have the feeling that 10 is practically perfection, it also shouldn't be an unreachable number. What's the point of having a 1-10 scale if you don't use all the numbers? So, if a game comes along that deserves it, that's amazingly fun and bug/problem-free and you couldn't imagine it being any better, that's a 10, even if there are some minor, minor issues. But I agree with MM9's 9 score.

96. Tony 24 Sep 2008, 20:08 GMT

A score of 9 = insta-buy

97. Mario64DStyle 24 Sep 2008, 22:49 GMT

Welp. After playing this a little longer.. I have a few questions..

What can easily be accepted at the easiest, and hardest stage (Not the final one, out of the 8 bosses)?
What exactly does sprite flicker do?
Whats is the most fun stage to play?

98. Corbie 24 Sep 2008, 23:02 GMT

The easiest stage is probably Galaxy Man. This is a good place to get your feet wet and get a special weapon. The hardest is debatable, but I found the Hornet Man stage the toughest overall. Jewel Man has a tough challenge, but the robot is a pushover. As for sprite flicker, I didn't find that it changed much at all, but I'm using an LCD HDTV with the component connection. Not sure if that makes any difference or not. Last but not least, the most fun stage to me was Plug Man's stage. I loved it!

99. Mario64DStyle 24 Sep 2008, 23:08 GMT

Haha, I was just playing on Plug man stage..
I got up to where the green blocks kept moving around... and when it tricked me by blocking off one of the paths to jump over.. I gave up on it haha.. for now.
I havn't tried many stages. I just defeated Galaxy man's stage.. and I've only tried Concrete and Plug mans stages.. which are both difficult >_>
I have a feeling im going to be putting a lot of hours into this just to finally complete it

100. andy836 25 Sep 2008, 00:15 GMT

100 comment i have the game but havent gotten a chance to play it............. stupid school.

101. Chipmunk777 25 Sep 2008, 00:16 GMT

I agree, Galaxy Man's stage is definitely where you want to start, it's the easiest. I think Tornado Man's stage is hardest. And I agree, I haven't noticed much difference in the sprite flicker mode. And the most fun? I'd have to say Plug Man's as well. I like the look of it, and I'm always a sucker for a good disappearing block puzzle

102. tasthomas 25 Sep 2008, 03:38 GMT

IMO, best music goes to the Jewel Man stage. I doubt that the Crash Man music will ever be beaten.

103. Mario64DStyle 25 Sep 2008, 03:57 GMT

UGH!
this game is hard.. I got to a part on Plug Man's stage where there is a row of three green blocks that appear.. and if you don't jump up at the exact right time.. you get stuck and fall into the spikes >_<

104. NESgamer 25 Sep 2008, 08:14 GMT

The wait was worth!, this Mega Man has the best level design since MM III it's so fun to play, i've been playing it all day.

It has high difficulty, somewhat like MM I if you prefer.

105. Apocalypse 25 Sep 2008, 08:41 GMT

A 9 is good, but after hearing that this game will have lots of DLC and 50 great challenges it should have gotten a 10 IMO. I mean compare this to LostWinds....

106. lockelocke 25 Sep 2008, 11:09 GMT

you guys don't see the sprite flicker? It usually happens when Mega Man gets damaged and there are a few other enemies on the screen. It looks dead-on.

107. Mayhem 25 Sep 2008, 13:09 GMT

I found Hornet Man stage a pushover... Tornado Man was infuriating, so I probably vote that as most tricky to get through. It's the most "platformy" of the eight levels for starters. At least the patterns for Plug Man's disappearing blocks were not that hard to figure out. Just got Concrete Man left, figuring out the best tactic for the blimming elephants...

Best music? Hmmm I like Tornado Man as well here.

108. lockelocke 25 Sep 2008, 19:56 GMT

I just got to Dr. Wiley's lab. "IT WAS WILEY ALL ALONG!" hahaha. I can't bring myself to stop playing, this game is too awesome to describe. Hardest level? I definitely wouldn't say Tornado Man, I mean the platforms take a little getting used to, but there isn't even a mini-boss so getting to the half-way point of the level is cake. Hornet Man was tougher for me, though the boss fight wasn't much to write home about, and the level was a bit short; still, that one ate some serious lives. Best music? Galaxy man is great, but wait til you get to the lab, there's some great tunes to be heard.

@Mayhem64.
First elephant is easy, for the 2nd elephant you gotta stand right next to it so the ball bounces over you, for the 3rd you need to get on that middle platform ASAP.

ALSO, does anyone know what the Roll costume does, or how to use it, I spent like all my screws and, well, nothing happened.

109. MarkyVigoroth 26 Sep 2008, 03:37 GMT

Corbie-san:I just couldn't see giving out a 10 this early in the game considering we still have a long way to go with the WiiWare service and in all honesty something much better could still come along. It's a bit like the person that brought up the 9 I gave Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles. You see what giving that a 9 did. It set a precedent for future reviews and now every 9 I give will be compared back to all the games that received that score before it. Giving Mega Man 9 a perfect score would have done the very same thing. Not to mention the flood of people who would scream that I was crazy for giving a 2008 game that looks, sounds, and plays like a 15 year old NES game a perfect 10. It's lose/lose. I felt like a 9 was the right score and I went with it.

So, this one gets a 9 because, though this game is really good, Rockman 9 did not truly display the capabilities of WiiWare (as in graphics and music)?
Thankfully, I managed to understand that.

110. Mr. Cheez 26 Sep 2008, 04:02 GMT

^I understand that too. I knew this game would score high, but I never thought that it would get a 10. For a game to earn that score it has to fire off on all fronts. Not just gameplay and control, but graphics and sounds as well. And since MM9 has graphics and sound like an NES game, it's not winning any awards in those 2 categories.

111. Julius Belmont 26 Sep 2008, 06:18 GMT

Awesome game I am absolutely going to get it somewhere this week.

112. Rabspat 26 Sep 2008, 12:31 GMT

A lot of people say this game is super hard, but honestly I'd say it's only on par with Mega Man 2. On my third play through, I beat the all the robot masters in only 25 minutes. I could've done it on my second run through, but I was going for the Double Trouble challenge. I can't wait for the extra difficulty settings, so that it really can become the hardest Mega Man game. o:

113. Bensei 26 Sep 2008, 13:37 GMT

I'm glad you changed your avatr back Corbie, it suits you more, or at least I already associate you with Greg

114. Julius Belmont 26 Sep 2008, 17:26 GMT

@Rabspat,

People arent used to difficult games anymore they get bombarded with games of lesser quality (not always...) that simply do not have the difficulty that Megaman had back in the days.

I am glad Megaman 9 has the difficulty mostly on par with Megaman 2 so it can atleast provide me with a challenge.

115. Golgo 27 Sep 2008, 09:17 GMT

I'm ashamed to say I've never played a Megaman game. Would the connoisseurs on this site recommend this new one as the best, or should I pop my cherry with 2 instead?

116. Dazza 27 Sep 2008, 20:18 GMT

@Golgo - You will probably find Mega Man 2 a lot easier to pick up so I think it would make a good starting point for you. For 500 points you can't lose.

When you have nailed that, then you will be ready for the ultimate Mega Man 9 challenge!

117. Golgo 27 Sep 2008, 21:11 GMT

@Dazza
Cheers mate, didnt realize mm2 was only 500 points either! Will break my duck at bargain price!

118. Final_Starman 28 Sep 2008, 15:16 GMT

I'm starting to think I should get this game. I mean it is probably the same as all the others, but…
……
……………………………………………………oh who am I kidding; I want this game! :-)

119. That Guy from Faxanadu 28 Sep 2008, 19:16 GMT

This feels just like when I was eleven and borrowed Mega Man 1 from my best friend. I get killed a lot, but it´s so fun I keep trying again and again. I´d almost forgotten how fun good level design can be. There are tons of fresh experiences here. Mega Man 9 is nothing like the tired old sequels, it´s way better. (Right after the original three!)

If you like action games: BUY!
If you like plattformers: BUY!
If you like NES games at all: BUY

120. worrybomb 29 Sep 2008, 00:42 GMT

Okay as much I don't want to admit this, I found one fault with Mega Man 9. You still don't have full control of the Rush Jet. Come on, one of the reasons why I liked Mega Man 3 is because you can fully control the Rush Jet to go anywhere you feel like going. After MM3, Rush Jet was completely downgraded Rush Jet in moving two directions: up and down because wherever you pointed Rush it's going to go that direction only. I was hoping this will be fixed in Mega Man 9 but now I know why it received a score of "9". =P

In all seriousness, I missed fully controlling Rush Jet.

121. evilralfwiggum 29 Sep 2008, 08:34 GMT

Mega Man 9 isn't that hard...you just have to get used to the weapons. :0 I still hate that gamecube controllers don't work...I was going to use my NES controller ;_; I can't wait to play as Protoman. That'll be a little bit more challenging.

122. That Guy from Faxanadu 29 Sep 2008, 10:57 GMT

@evilralfwiggum
Yeah, pity Gamecube ports aren´t supported, I wanted to use my retroport for this too.

Compared to most games in the genre Mega Man 9 is hard, but not to extremes. With ot without weapons you still have to get through maliciously designed levels, but you can buy as many E-tanks you want. Since she shop provides averything from spike-proof boots to an item that makes you take half damage, difficulty can be ajusted.

Hopefully this allows everyone to have fun with MM9.

123. cr00mz 29 Sep 2008, 17:12 GMT

is it possible to get rid of the borders? none of my downloadable games have borders (the look stretched but no borders)

124. morphballer 29 Sep 2008, 21:44 GMT

Maybe they'll do an update that would allow for the GC controller to work.

125. Mr. Cheez 29 Sep 2008, 22:06 GMT

I'm not sure about diving into this game impromptu (as in, without experience with any of the other Mega Man games.), due to all the talk about it's fiendish difficulty, so I'll go DL MM2 (I'd get the collection, but I haven't had the chance to do so) and play that for a while first.

126. Tony 30 Sep 2008, 18:47 GMT

@ MR. Cheez
The collection has an easier difficulty setting for each game. It basically removes certain enemies. I would easily reccomend the collection. The remixed music is great and you can try Mega Man 3-6 before they hit the VC. I like Mega Man 5

127. MarkyVigoroth 01 Oct 2008, 03:12 GMT

evilralfwiggum-san: "I still hate that gamecube controllers don't work...I was going to use my NES controller ;_;"

Is not using the Wii Remote good enough?

128. achillem 04 Oct 2008, 00:01 GMT

this game is just awesome in so many levels, this is a fine example of a good 2d sidescroller.

129. Clayfrd 07 Oct 2008, 06:10 GMT

@ Mr. Cheez (110) - Yes, but the 8-bit style was the point. The soundtrack is incredibly catchy too. I think the title screen music is great, and so is Tornado Man's stage's music. The fact that Capcom created such a genuine 8-bit experience means they reached their goal with epic success. Plus, there's Proto Man.

130. Ren 07 Oct 2008, 16:29 GMT

I don't get the big deal about scoring 9 or 10 or whatever. It's not the olympics. If you love a game and really feel totally satisfied give it a 10 already. If there are detractions for some reason give the reason. Not giving something a 10 just because there "might be something better coming" or whatever, is just silly. Of course theres always something better, or different rather, but in the moment (or couple days) if a game blows your mind just give a dang 10, it won't hurt anyone. Especially when a rare gem like this comes out now and again it deserves the notoriety of a 10.

131. Bass X0 08 Oct 2008, 17:57 GMT

NGamer gave this a 3/5 just because it was too difficult.

132. Mr. Cheez 08 Oct 2008, 21:18 GMT

^WIMPS!

133. zombiekillr 10 Oct 2008, 01:03 GMT

wow.. i was going to get this... but it sounds really hard... im scared!!!

134. Clayfrd 10 Oct 2008, 02:47 GMT

@Ren - Agreed

@All
AAGGH! I've attempted to beat Wily about 10 times now to no avail! I finally quit and went back to the store to get 9 E-Tanks and 1 M-Tank and one of those 1/2 damage things. I'll destroy him. HAHAHA! Tomorrow. I'm far to frustrated tonight. I have a short break from escuela, so I can work all Friday to Whomp Wily!

EDIT

I have a strange glitch to report. After I purchased Proto Man (any DLC would probably work), and I went back to look at the description, once I exited the description the game immediately froze. Could anyone else try this to see if it happens to them?

135. Villain 10 Oct 2008, 14:53 GMT

@leon/zombiekillr5000: That's exactly why you SHOULD get it! Don't think of it as a standard game, think of it as exercise, as practice. It'll make you tough and patient if you let it. This kind of difficulty level is what we '80s gamers were raised on. It's completely true when they say that they don't make them like they used to.

136. Clayfrd 10 Oct 2008, 18:27 GMT

w00t! I beat it. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH! Finally. I used all of my E/M-Tanks plus 1 that I found en route to Wily. I don't care, though! I beat him. Now I have to do it with Proto Man... oh no... (Captain Falcon: YES!)

137. zombiekillr 11 Oct 2008, 00:40 GMT

@villain- ok.... i'll get it when i get more points... but i'm still scared......

138. World 1-1 11 Oct 2008, 10:07 GMT

One of the (if not the) best WiiWare games. It's awesome.

139. Cally 13 Oct 2008, 07:57 GMT

This game is hard but completely fair. There's a "Mr. Perfect" challenge, which is completed by not taking any damage ever, and just the fact that it's conceivably doable is a testament to the game's superior design. Any jerk can make a "hard" game, but to make one with total justice like this is a rare case and is the reason why it won't be anywhere NEAR as frustrating as many other games that are just as hard.

The only thing I have against it is the lack of pacing. They threw in so many original ideas into this game that I am flat-out amazed, but as a platformer (and not just a "shooter") it should have more "smelling the roses" moments where you're just enjoying the thing--just a few breathers here and there, enjoying the backgrounds and music without another world to conquer at times.

So yeah, this is definitely the most "intense" game in the series. I've played Mega Man 1-8 so many times that I might just be an expert on the genre, but I don't know how anyone who's beaten ANY shooter on the VC would consider it hard. I beat it a few times and got 40% of the challenges without too much trouble (up to 66% now).

Beyond that, the feeling I get with MM9 is this ambition to create an alternate successor to Mega Man 2 in many ways, evolving slightly, but differently, than MM3 did. The weapons are just fantastic this time around, with all of them easily put to good use regularly (unlike many entries in the series). Also, like the first two games, there aren't many easy-going segments--you're faced with a distinct challenge all the time, and the developers were arguably not as concerned with making the challenges of each stage relating to the name of the boss. (Like did anything in Galaxy Man or Tornado Man's stage feel like anything that would make one think of Galaxy's or Tornado's at all, aside from the backgrounds?) That's generally where the fun in lots of platformers are: stages with a theme, and MM9 has the challenges but not the escapism that others in the series and the genre had.

It is tough, but I think that report is incredibly overblown, and ought not be compared to many difficult games that, as aforementioned, are arguably unfair or mindless--the game design knows exactly how it is challenging the player with what. It is obvious the developers were thinking about every challenge, enemy placement, powerup placement, and so on. It's hard for me to compare this to the rest of the series because it's really so different--as an extreme fan of the series, I can feel the difference in times and developers, here, especially with the methodical nature of challenging the player and a quite a bit less player empowerment--playing as Mega Man in this game never really makes you feel like some awesome super-hero like the others, and rather constantly challenges his very limits; very seldom is ANY enemy just something to blast through for fun. On the whole, it's clear that Capcom took this unique effort very seriously with excellent results.

10/10