rockman
Latest
Mega Man gets equipped with Japanese laptop
Joining Sega in the unlikely trend of video game-themed Japanese laptops, Capcom is looking to release a Mega Man special edition Ultrabook PC. And, like Capcom tends to do for Mega Man projects, it's polling fans to find the best design. As this inscrutable practice takes off, we feel the need to document it.A poll is up for the Ultrabook, with users allowed to vote once per day to select whether a generic "Rockman" design, tiled Dr. Wily and Robot Masters (the correct choice), overwrought NES box art-style Mega Man, or a pile of various Rolls will emblazon the laptop.So if you want to spend a few minutes voting on the look of a computer you very likely won't be able to buy, and probably shouldn't – sweet Mega Man art is not the recommended metric for choosing a computer – you're free to do so.
Who changed Rockman's name to Mega Man?
Every gamer worth his or her salt knows that Mega Man's real name isn't Mega Man. The true fans of the Blue Bomber know that he is known as Rock Man in his homeland of Japan. So, who renamed the little guy? Turns out it was former Capcom senior vice president Joseph Morici. The Mega Man Network uncovered the info in a 1993 interview with Morici with (the beloved) Game Players magazine.So why did he change the name? He just didn't like it. "The title was horrible," said Morici. And thus, an American gaming icon was born. But, as Capcom Unity points out, the "Rockman" name brings the musical names of many of the other characters into context (Roll, Beat, Bass, etc.). Still, having grown up with Mega Man, "Rockman" just doesn't sound right.
Eddie Lebron's Mega Man movie is something we'd like to see
We love Mega Man. In fact, when Mega Man 9 was announced, we ran around picking up random telephones looking for a way out of what we thought was surely The Matrix. Seriously, how could something so good happen to us? It seemed like a dream. And now, this trailer for a fan-made Mega Man movie by Eddie Lebron is along those lines. It's like the guy broke into our office windowless prison cell and picked the small lock we have on our diary. Then, he read that diary. But, in all seriousness, what is the deal with Dr. Wily's 'stache? That thing looks rabid and might need to be put down.[Via Joystiq] Guess what? We're all about Mega Man 9. Check out our review of the game right here, as well as our top 5 favorite things about the game. Heck, while you're at it, check out our column on Mega Man Legends, as well as our top 5 favorite Mega Man games. Oh, and be sure to read our latest Point/Counterpoint feature, where Mega Man is in the spotlight.
VC Tuesday: Rock!
The Japanese release of Rockman (also known as Mega Man) on the Virtual Console is great for two reasons. First, obviously, is the fact that Rockman is a great game, if a bit ... super hard (even harder than most other Rockman games, and even with only six Robot Masters).Second is that it marks the passage of time nicely: one Mega Man game on the way to 9. First this, then 2, then 9!We don't know the first thing about Blood Gear, but it also looks pretty cool! Also, we can't even believe it, but EGGY came out! Rockman (Famicom, 1 player, 500 Wii Points) Street Fighter II' Plus Champion Edition (Mega Drive, 1-2 players, 600 Wii Points) Blood Gear (PC Engine, 1 player, 800 Wii Points) EGGY (MSX, 1 player, 700 Wii Points)
First footage of Mega Man 9
Here's a little confidence-builder for all those developers out there wanting to go in the opposite direction of technological progress. Huzzah, the entirely new Mega Man 9 for WiiWare is essentially an 8-bit game, with terrible graphics, sound and animation. And it's awesome. Evidence is right there in front of you -- the first "man, we totally want it" footage.It's an uber-short video, and there's a giant Rockman 9 logo in the way, but we still get the gist of what's going on. Mega Man himself is jumping around, shooting stuff and just being generally mega. Sit back, relax, and let the blips and bloops of the soundtrack put you into a dream-like state until the game's Japanese release in September -- though we have high hopes for a short North American waiting list.[Via Siliconera]
.jpg.cf.jpg)
Mega Man 9 looks great, sounds great, did we mention looks great?
We're trying to think of words to describe how we felt when we saw the Mega Man 9 screens at Games Radar, but there's just too much emotion to articulate. As if the scans weren't legendary enough with their retro, 8-bit goodness, the screens just make us downright giddy. There's not much else to say, except that we're so in love with Capcom right now.Games Radar has some delightful details on the game, too, which just add some extra oomph to an already oomph-tastic game. For one, beloved Mega Man designer Keiji Inafune was especially involved in the making of Mega Man 9, even creating the bosses this time around. As for the story, it still revolves around our favorite villain Dr. Wily, but this time he has the public on his side, convincing them that Dr. Light is the bad guy. Silly public.That's not all, though -- according to Games Radar, this game is hard. Not this hard, but still difficult. We say, bring it. You know what else it has? A lot of music from Mega Man 2, also known as one of the best video game soundtracks of all time.Lastly (but not least), Games Radar has the skinny on Mega Man 9's bosses, including one that's a woman robot named Splash Woman. Others include Galaxy Man, Jewel Man, Hornet Man, Tornado Man, Concrete Man, Maga Man, and Plug Man. Man alive, that's a lot of mans.Now you can stop reading and look at the screens (just click on the "Source" link or post image, as per usual). You might want to have some tissues handy, because they may just bring tears of joy to your eyes.[Via NeoGAF]
A mega load of screens for Star Force 2
In order to remind us that Mega Man Star Force 2 released today, Capcom offered up a plethora of screens for fans to check out. There are so many of them that you can probably just look at the screens in a slideshow and call it a day, saving yourself the $29.99. Of course, that just takes all the fun out of it.As you may recall, there are two different versions of the game: Zerker x Ninja and Zerker x Saurian. Although they're mostly the same, each one offers Mega Man different powers.So, which will it be, Star Force fans? Saurian, or Ninja?%Gallery-26022%[Via press release]
The trials and tribulations of Dr. Wily
We love playing Mega Man games, especially on our DSes (both officially and unofficially). Awesome skits like this just make us yearn even more for a classic Blue Bomber title, though, as the original Rockman is the one we fell in love with.Despite our wishes and wants, we really enjoyed this hilarious take on the Mega Man series by Old Rich People. We couldn't help but laugh at Dr. Wily and all the hoops he has to go through just to kill our favorite robot. Oh, and the ending? Priceless. We expect a DS homebrew version of the game to be made asap. (Not really.)[Via Destructoid]
Wherefore art thou, Mega Man?
When Capcom said that we wouldn't be seeing Bionic Commando on the Wii, that wasn't entirely true. What is true is that the decision is completely up to Nintendo -- but that goes for all Capcom games, not just the retrospectively controversial Hitler-killing ones.According to Capcom's Public Relations Director Chris Kramer, the company licensed the rights to their games to Nintendo. It's therefore completely up to Nintendo whether and when Capcom titles get released on the Virtual Console -- Capcom no longer has any input in the decision.That's all fine and good, but at the same time, it makes us a little uneasy. One question we have -- where is the Mega Man series on North American consoles? Why is it taking so long for Nintendo of America to release even one game of the beloved series? Nintendo obviously has plenty of games on their plate that they'd like to release in a timely fashion, but when that stops us from playing some of our favorite Capcom classics, we can't say we're too happy about it.What about you? Are there any Capcom games that you wish Nintendo would just hurry up with?
DS Daily: Mega Overexposed Series?
Recently, Capcom discussed the Guinness world record for "Most Number of Games in a Single Series," currently held -- handily -- by their Mega Man series. We doubt that when Keiji Inafune and his contemporaries decided to make a game around the concept of "Astro Boy, but in a blue suit," they thought even for a minute that their action-platformer would be the most prolific franchise in the history of games -- and yet it is.Do you think that after all the spinoffs, spinoffs of spinoffs, cameo appearances, and new characters, there's still life in the franchise? We're of the opinion that there's definitely more to be done with the original Blue Bomber, if only Capcom would do something.
Capcom offers mega Mega Man shirt
Even though it's been far too long since we've seen the classic Blue Bomber in action, Capcom knows how much gamers love the little fella. That's why they're selling this simple but delightful Mega Man shirt at their online store.This fabricized ode to the lovable robot will set you back $18 (not including Capcom's usually exorbitant shipping prices), but can you really put a price on nostalgia? Unfortunately, though, the website won't let you buy the shirt at present. Perhaps it's already sold out?[Via Capcom's Blog]
Classic Mega Man shows up in Star Force 2
While it's true that the original Blue Bomber makes an appearance in Mega Man Star Force 2, it's probably not in the way that you're hoping. In a promotion for the game, Capcom has allowed Japanese players to download a classic Rockman card at DS download stations.It would definitely be cool if Capcom let other regions enjoy this content, too, but we're not getting our hopes up. This wouldn't be the first time Japan has gotten cool downloadables that haven't found their way elsewhere. Gallery: Mega Man Star Force 2
Mega Man scarf is mega sweet
It's been a while since we've seen a Mega Man game akin to the ones of the days of yore, but now, yore comes in scarf form. Beatboxtaun, the same craftster behind the Punch-Out! scarf, has gone and designed some winter gear based on Mega Man 2 (a game which, incidentally, has one of our favorite video game soundtracks). It might be getting a little too warm for scarves, since spring is just around the corner, but we're sure your nostalgia can keep you cold enough to don this beauty.What's nice about this scarf is that it not only features the Blue Bomber himself, but also the villains of the game. Now, all she has to do is make a Mega Man 3 scarf that includes Proto Man, and we'd be super happy.This neck mitten certainly isn't cheap, as it will cost you $150 on Etsy -- but until we get a classic Mega Man game on the DS, this is probably the next best thing. For now, though, we guess we'll have to settle for Mega Man Star Force and the like.Another picture of the scarf is posted after the break, if you want to see the rest of the villains included.
Mega Man Star Force 2 forces details upon us
When we think of Mega Man Star Force, we tend to wonder, "Is this really what Mega Man has come to?" Since some of you may enjoy the Blue Bomber's battle RPG, though, you might be interested in hearing some details about the sequel.While the last Star Force game came in three different "flavors" (Dragon, Pegasus, and Leo), Mega Man Star Force 2 will only have two versions to choose from (Zerker x Ninja and Zerker x Saurian). Depending on which iteration you choose to buy, Mega Man will have different powers. The Zerker element (which is in both games) will give Mega Man a lightning-powered sword, the Ninja element will increase his speed and let him throw a big Shurikan, and the Saurian element will give him the power of "explosive fiery fists." As for the storyline, the game will take place two months after the ending of its predecessor, and involves a new trouble-making character named "Rogue."Other than that, the characters, graphics, and battle system appear to be the same or similar, meaning that if you enjoyed the first Star Force title, you'll probably like this one too (and vice versa). The online component sounds slightly deeper, though, allowing you to either battle, share cards, share upgrades, or aid in transformation upgrades.The game is scheduled to hit the DS in June, so those of you anticipating it won't have to wait all that long.%Gallery-18378%[Via GamesPress press release]
Huge discounts and prizes at Play Asia's Year of the Rat Lucky Sale
Bringing in the Chinese New Year, import shop Play Asia has slashed the prices on over five thousand of its in-stock games and accessories. What's more, each order you put in between today and February 29th will count towards an entry for you to win a variety of Japanese consoles, games, and store credits. There's just too many items on sale to list, so we've picked out a few from the DS and GBA sections that might pique your interest. DS game sales: Ryuusei no RockMan: Dragon, Leo, and Pegasus - $48.90 $9.90 Nodame Cantabile - $48.90 $14.90 Operation: Vietnam (US) - $24.90 $16.90 Slide Adventure: Mag Kid - $58.90 $19.90 Oshare Majo Love and Berry (DS Collection) - $58.90 $19.90 K-1 World GP - $48.90 $24.90 Moero! Nekketsu Rhythm Damashii Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan 2 - $48.90 $29.90 Jump past the break for the accessory and GBA bargains!
No Mega Man in Brawl, it seems
If you're anything like us, you might be hoping that one of the daily dojo updates will drop the bomb that Mega Man will be a playable character in Super Smash Bros. Brawl. Unfortunately, it looks like that isn't happening. Bionic Commando recently interviewed Keiji Inafune, the creator of Mega Man, who had this to say regarding Brawl: "Well, I really do love Super Smash Brothers. It's a great series...but, Nintendo hasn't asked me yet if they can use Mega Man in their game. I'm still waiting...we have a little bit of time left, it's not coming out for another few months."Somebody, call the man! But in reality, it seems too late to add the lovable blue robot if they haven't already (the game comes out next month in Japan). Is anybody as bummed as this blogger, or are you glad that Mega Man won't be involved in Brawl?[Via GoNintendo]
Anniversary CDs rock, man
Which game series that is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year has the best music? Sorry, about half of our readers, it's not Final Fantasy. But, like, Final Fantasy, it is a near-infinite vortex of remakes and spinoffs: Mega Man. As part of the 20th anniversary festivities for the original Japanese release of Rockman, Capcom is releasing two CDs of new arrangements of classic Rockman music, done by] musicians from the Mega Man Battle Network series, as well as Konami's Beatmania IIDX series.The Rockman 1-6 Rock Arrange Ver. 2007 came out on the 5th, and the Rockman 1-6 Techno Arrange Ver. 2007 CD is out today. Both focus on the 8-bit Mega Man games, which is fine with us. The discs retail for 3,150 yen each ($28), which is somewhat less fine.The original soundtracks for Mega Mans (Mega Men?) 7 and 8 will be reissued as well. Samples of all four of these discs are available at the official site, including, yes, both Rock and Techno arrangements of "Dr. Wily's Castle 1" from Mega Man 2.[Via Dengeki]
Virtually Overlooked: Wily & Right no Rockboard: That's Paradise
Welcome to our weekly feature, Virtually Overlooked, wherein we talk about games that aren't on the Virtual Console yet, but should be. Call it a retro-speculative.We were driven into a melancholy by the news that Australia (and probably Europe) was getting a Virtual Console version of Mega Man 2 while we have yet to see a download of the first game. Many of you correctly noted that it was stupid to wait for a VC version with the Mega Man Anniversary Collection disc available so cheaply and plentifully. But we actually have the disc and the cartridge. It's a simple matter of wanting every game we like to be available through as many conduits as possible, to get into the most hands as possible. A Virtual Console release, as well, allows a game to come back to the attention of the gaming community, sparking discussion once again. We want that for Mega Man 2 forever. Our memories of Mega Man 2 are 110 million, after all.The existence of the Mega Man Anniversary Collection still makes any included game too easy to play on the Wii to be Virtually Overlooked material, even if, by doing so, it limits discussion. There's no real reason to wish for a game that you can just go buy for less money. That renders Mega Man 1-8 off limits (good luck playing 8 on a Nintendo system any other way!) as well as The Power Battle and The Power Fighters. But we still want to talk Mega Man, so we went scrambling for an appropriate game. Mega Man X? No, it is also available on a compilation. Rockman Battle & Chase? No, it's on the same compilation! Rockboard will have to do, then. It's got the benefit of being the weirdest Mega Man game yet, and we can keep Mega Man Soccer saved up for a bit.
MIDI + art + game songs = <3
Some awesome soul has taken it about himself to make visually enhanced game tunes, and the result is nothing short of spectacular. Using a program called Music Animation Machine MIDI Player, which converts the musical notes of MIDI songs into art, the creator of these videos has managed to blow our minds. Sure, we always enjoy it when musical sounds are synthesized with visual imagery, but when some of our favorite songs are involved, it just makes it that much better.We decided to put the Mega Man 2 "Dr. Wily Stage 1" song up top to celebrate Rock Man's 20th anniversary, and well, because it's our favorite. If you don't look after the break to check out the equally awesome Final Fantasy IV, Kirby, Mario, and other tunes, though, you officially fail at the internet.
Celebrate Mega Man's 20th by looking awesome
Capcom is releasing some totally great stuff to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the first Rockman game (way back when it had scores). We're happy not just because it's rad, but because it focuses on the for-real Blue Bomber and not on one of the scores of Mega Man-lites Capcom has spun off over the years.Unfortunately, we can't tell if the limited-edition items -- including t-shirts, scarves (!) and phone straps -- will be made available online or only at the special Rockman event held in Ikebukuro on the 18th. We would at least like a shot at ordering one of these jackets. We're cold.[Via Inside-Games]
