Looking to dive into the thrilling world of Mega Man games? Brace yourself for an electrifying journey through gaming history as we explore the finest titles featuring the iconic Blue Bomber.
From the classic NES games to the innovative Mega Man X series and beyond, we'll uncover the gems, the classics, and even the missteps in this beloved franchise.
Get ready to power up your nostalgia and discover the best Mega Man games that left a mark on the gaming industry.
Top 15 Mega Man Games Ranked
1. Mega Man X
Release Date: December 17, 1993
Highlights: Mega Man X game is one of the old classic Mega Man games with enhanced graphics, tighter controls, and a darker storyline.
Introducing the Maverick Hunter, this incredible game set the bar high for the X games and remains a fan favorite to this day.
There are several spin-offs, including the Mega Man X: Command Mission, Mega Man X DiVE, Mega Man X DiVE Offline, and Mega Man Xtreme.
Gameplay: Defeat bosses and uncover secrets or hidden power-ups to get through levels. Beat a Maverick and use its signature weapon.
2. Mega Man 4
Release Date: December 6, 1991
Highlights: Mega Man 4 refined the game mechanics with new elements like the Mega Buster charge shot and the ability to collect letters to spell "BEAT."
With challenging levels and memorable Robot Masters like Pharaoh Man and Ring Man, Mega Man 4 is a solid entry in the classic series.
The game is one of the top experiences in the NES library. The addition of a second set of castle levels greatly extends the game's length, a tradition continued in the next two titles.
Gameplay: Complete the eight-stage series in any order. Run, jump, shoot, and climb to overcome obstacles and enemies. Beat a Robot Master boss at each stage and use their special weapon later.
3. Mega Man 2
Release Date: December 24, 1988
Highlights: Often hailed as one of the greatest NES games, Mega Man 2 features several gameplay changes from the original game.
It's a perfectly fine game with a password system, no scoring system, eight masters, and tough levels. Mega Man 2 cemented its status as one of the best games to sit and play.
In fact, Mega Man 2 is one of the best-selling games in the series. The audio, visuals, and gameplay are worth the play.
Gameplay: Defeat the Robot bosses and proceed through Dr. Wily's fortress, which consists of six linear levels.
Check out our recommended Mega Man gifts here.
4. Mega Man 9
Release Date: September 22, 2008
Highlights: Returning to its 8-bit roots, Mega Man 9 exudes the classic series with challenging gameplay, pixel-perfect platforming, and classic graphics.
The downloadable content and the challenging "Hero Mode" are interesting concepts that redefine the game series.
Mega Man 9's simple graphics, sound, and gameplay are similar to Mega Man 2, making it a hit commercially. It led to the creation of Mega Man 10 [1], which also has an 8-bit style.
Gameplay: Navigate through eight stages. Run, jump, avoid traps, shoot enemies and mini-bosses, and face the Robot Master boss at the end.
5. Mega Man 3
Release Date: September 28, 1990
Highlights: Mega Man 3 introduced several new features, including the slide maneuver and Rush, the robotic dog. The inclusion of all eight masters from Mega Man 2 adds to the thrill.
It's an amazing game with a memorable soundtrack and innovative boss battles, which makes Mega Man 3 a standout title in the NES era.
The game is a big step up from the first Mega Man and is even better than the highly praised Mega Man 2. We like the game's improved storytelling and longer length than other old Mega Man titles.
Gameplay: Collect life energy, special weapons, extra lives, and "E-Tanks to win at every stage in any order. We suggest starting with Top Man and finishing the quest with Snake Man.
6. Mega Man X2
Release Date: December 16, 1994
Highlights: Building upon the Mega Man X game, Mega Man X2 introduced new gameplay mechanics, like the ability to dash mid-air and ride on vehicles.
Similar to the original Mega Man X, this game allows players to dash, climb walls, and gain special abilities by finding optional pieces of armor.
With impressive graphics and intense action, Mega Man X2 is a worthy sequel in the X games.
Gameplay: Collect extra lives or items to heal and boost weapon power. Weapons have advantages against specific bosses, so plan the stage order strategically.
7. Mega Man 11
Release Date: October 2, 2018
Highlights: Mega Man returned in style with Mega Man 11 after the hiatus. This is a good game, featuring stunning 2.5D graphics and tight platforming gameplay.
The new Double Gear system gives Mega Man two new abilities. Speed Gear slows down time, helping him dodge attacks.
Power Gear boosts his weapon's attack power, letting him shoot two or one very powerful charged shot together.
Gameplay: Guide Mega Man to stop Dr. Wily from using the Double Gear system. Navigate through eight stages, in any order, and confront Dr. Wily's new Robot Master bosses.
Learn how to create a Mega Man costume here.
8. Mega Man Zero
Release Date: April 26, 2002
Highlights: The story takes place 100 years after Mega Man X. Mega Man Zero introduces a new playable character, Zero, who wakes up and joins a war between humans and Reploids.
Due to an energy shortage crisis, reploids are oppressed and hunted. Like other X games, it has fast-paced gameplay and challenging boss battles.
We hear a lot of positive reviews for this game, praising the challenging difficulty that can surpass other X games.
Gameplay: It's a run-and-play game. Memorize boss patterns and use the right weapons to beat enemies.
9. Mega Man 5
Release Date: December 4, 1992
Highlights: Mega Man 5 happens in the 21st century, just two months after Mega Man 4. Dr. Wily tries to take over the world again.
Despite lacking in some areas, Mega Man 5 still delivers a solid Mega Man experience with its creative level design and memorable masters like Gravity Man and Wave Man.
Compared to other games, this isn't a bad game after all. The graphics, music, and play control of the game are decent enough to entertain fans.
Gameplay: Control Mega Man as he runs, jumps, and shoots through the game stages.
10. Mega Man 7
Release Date: March 24, 1995
Highlights: Mega Man 7, which debuted on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), introduced enhanced graphics and sound capabilities to the game series.
Despite mixed reviews upon release, Mega Man 7 is praised for its colorful visuals and challenging game mechanics. The levels are well-designed, the pacing is good, and the difficulty is reasonable.
Transitioning from Mega Man 6 to Mega Man 7 can feel abrupt, but Mega Man 7 holds its own as a standalone title.
Gameplay: Defeat the Robot Master bosses to gain special weapons to be used for future stages.
11. Mega Man X Collection
Release Date: January 10, 2006
Highlights: The Mega Man X Collection brought together several titles from the Mega Man X series to Megan Man X2. We can relive the adventures of the Maverick Hunter on modern gaming platforms.
Mega Man X Collection has bonus artwork and music from the series and includes Mega Man: Battle & Chase, a racing game never before released in North America.
With improved visuals and added features, the Mega Man X Collection is a must-play for fans of the Mega Man X series.
Gameplay: Try your skills in the new X Challenge mode and face two tough bosses at once.
12. Mega Man Powered Up
Release Date: March 2, 2006
Highlights: A reimagining of the original Mega Man game, Mega Man Powered Up featured updated graphics, new levels, and the ability to play as other Robot Masters.
In Mega Man Powered Up, players still stop Dr. Wily, but there are some changes. The visuals are much better, and there's a new challenge mode and a level creator.
Gameplay: After each stage, players face the Robot Master of that stage. Defeating a Robot Master earns Mega Man their weapon, which has limited ammo and can be used against other enemies.
13. Mega Man 8
Release Date: December 17, 1996
Highlights: Mega Man 8, which debuted on the Sony PlayStation and Sega Saturn [2], featured impressive anime-style cutscenes, full motion video, and voice acting.
The game's look and gameplay are better than earlier versions, making it one of the best mainline games to explore. Mega Man 8 features better graphics and sound compared to earlier games.
The gameplay follows the same 2D side-scrolling and platforming formula as previous NES and SNES games, with only a few changes.
Gameplay: Navigate stages with side-scrolling action and platforms. Run, jump, slide, shoot, swim, charge the Mega Buster, and switch weapons.
14. Mega Man Legacy Collection
Release Date: August 24, 2015
Highlights: Mega Man Legacy Collection compiled the first six Mega Man titles into one package, complete with new features such as challenge modes and museum galleries.
With faithful emulation and added bonuses, the Mega Man Legacy Collection offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans of the classic series.
Players can pick between the Japanese "Rockman" or international "Mega Man" versions of each game.
Gameplay: The new Challenge Mode mixes gameplay from all six games. Navigate tough challenges and overcome the tricky parts.
15. Mega Man & Bass
Release Date: April 24, 1998
Highlights: Originally released on the Super Famicom in Japan, Mega Man & Bass stars Mega Man's rival, Bass, as a playable character.
The stage setup is unique compared to other titles. After the intro level, players can only pick from three Robot Master bosses.
Despite its limited release outside of Japan and some frustrating level design, Mega Man & Bass offers a unique twist on the classic Mega Man formula.
Gameplay: Finish the stages, solve puzzles, overcome obstacles, and fight enemies. Defeat the "Robot Master" boss at the end to earn a special weapon.
FAQs
What is the best version of Mega Man?
The best version of Mega Man is subjective and varies among fans. Some prefer the classic NES titles for their nostalgic charm, while others favor the innovative games of the Mega Man X franchise [3]. Ultimately, it depends on individual preferences and gaming experiences.
What is the most popular Mega Man?
The most popular is Mega Man 2, praised for its tight controls, great music, and challenging yet rewarding gameplay. Mega Man 2 has garnered a dedicated fanbase and remains a beloved classic in gaming history.
Why is Mega Man 2 so popular?
Mega Man 2's popularity can be attributed to its perfect blend of challenging gameplay, memorable music, and innovative level design. It improved upon other games in every aspect, which captured the imaginations of gamers worldwide and solidified its status as a timeless classic game.
What is the longest Mega Man game?
The longest Mega Man game is Mega Man & Bass due to its challenging game design and demanding boss battles. Also, the game's non-linear structure and high difficulty contribute to its length, providing players with a substantial gameplay experience.
Which Mega Man is the hardest?
The hardest Mega Man game may vary by opinion, but Mega Man 9 is often cited as one of the hardest games in the series. With its return to the 8-bit style [4] of gameplay and challenging level design, Mega Man 9 offers a formidable test of skill for even the most seasoned players.
Let's Play
The Mega Man series offers players countless hours of challenging platforming, memorable boss battles, and classic feels. Each title is a great game, bringing thrill and excitement to fans.
Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, there's never been a better time to dive into the world of Mega Man.
Explore the iconic adventures of Blue Bomber with Toynk's Mega Man collection. Feel the spirit of Mega Man while enjoying a solid game for the most fun!
References:
- https://megaman.fandom.com/wiki/Mega_Man_10
- https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2015/may/14/sega-saturn-how-one-decision-destroyed-playstations-greatest-rival
- https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Franchise/MegaMan
- https://www.inverse.com/gaming/8-bit-games-meaning-definition-origins-list
