Summary
- Release Year: 2003
- Genres: Adventure, Platform
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 2
- Developers: Capcom Production Studio 3
- Publishers: Capcom
Mega Man X7: A Flawed Gem in the Mega Man X Series
Introduction
Mega Man X7 is a 2D action-platformer game developed and published by Capcom for the PlayStation 2, GameCube, and Windows. It is the seventh installment in the Mega Man X series and was released in 2003. The game takes place in the 22nd century, during an age when humans coexist with humanoid robots called “Reploids”. As some Reploids participate in violent and destructive crime, a police organization called the “Maverick Hunters” has been established to stamp out this activity.
Story
The story of Mega Man X7 takes place several years after the events of Mega Man X6. X has retired from the Maverick Hunters, tired from the never-ending battles. A new group of vigilantes, Red Alert, has emerged, led by the enigmatic Red. One of Red Alert’s members, Axl, decides he has had enough of their “murdering” and tries to leave the group. Red is angered by Axl’s desertion and goes on a rampage to get him back.
Meanwhile, a new threat emerges in the form of Sigma, a powerful Maverick who has been sealed away for years. Sigma escapes from his prison and begins to gather an army of Mavericks to take over the world. X and Axl must team up to stop Sigma and save the day.
Gameplay
Mega Man X7 plays similarly to previous games in the series. Players control X or Axl and must fight their way through a series of levels, defeating Mavericks and collecting power-ups. X and Axl have different abilities, with X being more powerful and Axl being more agile.
One of the new features in Mega Man X7 is the “Ride Armor” system. Players can find Ride Armors throughout the game, which can be used to traverse difficult terrain and defeat enemies more easily. Ride Armors can also be upgraded with new weapons and abilities.
Reception
Mega Man X7 received mixed reviews upon release. Some critics praised the game’s graphics and gameplay, while others criticized its difficulty and repetitive level design. The game was also criticized for its departure from the traditional Mega Man X formula.
Despite the mixed reviews, Mega Man X7 has a loyal following among fans of the series. Many fans appreciate the game’s unique gameplay and characters, and consider it to be an underrated gem.
Legacy
Mega Man X7 is a flawed game, but it is also a unique and ambitious entry in the Mega Man X series. The game’s Ride Armor system and new characters were well-received by fans, and the game’s story is one of the most ambitious in the series.
While Mega Man X7 may not be the best game in the series, it is still a solid action-platformer with a lot to offer fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding Mega Man X game, then Mega Man X7 is definitely worth checking out.
Additional Details
- Developer: Capcom
- Publisher: Capcom
- Platforms: PlayStation 2, GameCube, Windows
- Release Date: 2003
- Genre: Action-platformer
Characters
- X
- Axl
- Red
- Sigma
Bosses
- Flame Mammoth
- Frost Walrus
- Slash Beast
- Storm Owl
- Vanishing Gungaroo
- Axle the Red
- Soldier Stonekong
- Infinity Mijinion
Weapons
- X-Buster
- Sonic Slicer
- Chameleon Sting
- Bubble Splash
- Storm Tornado
- Metal Anchor
- Spinning Blade
- Triple Rod
Ride Armors
- Fenrir
- Pegasus
- Leviathan
- Salamander
Conclusion
Mega Man X7 is a flawed but ambitious entry in the Mega Man X series. The game’s unique gameplay and characters make it a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding Mega Man X game, then Mega Man X7 is definitely worth checking out.
Review Score
6.5/10