Gaming Target - Game Boy: Mega Man Battle Network

Written by Derek Noad on May 16, 2001

First Impressions: Imagine Mega Man meeting Pokemon.

Like most classic Mega Man fans I was annoyed to see the Blue Bomber's name slapped on another strange title. Very few characters have had the opportunity to be a soccer player, appear in a fighting game, and have over a dozen side scrolling adventures. Mega Man happens to be one of these lucky guys. Capcom loves to use the robotic hero in all types of situations. Today we have him as a battle "virtua-pet" in a new RPG for Game Boy Advance.

Mega Man now plays the role of a young boy's battle buddy in a twisted Pokemon like world. Everyone has his or her own little robot fighter. These little bad boys can solve all types of problems. Once called upon Mega Man will enter a battle grid. He can move to adjacent squares and perform attacks against his opponent. Some of the fighting is action, but mostly its traditional turn-based, move selection type of combat.

I have seen a little on the early stages of the game in action. It looks pretty so far. Capcom makes good use of the GBA's capabilities. The action is smooth and colorful. The overworld is somewhat of a three-quarters view (think Super Mario RPG). Battle takes you into a 2Dish plane that is about 3 by 6 squares of combat space.

The information surrounding this game is still limited. Who is Mega Man's owner and how will that impact the game? How will Mega Man learn new moves or attacks? As more of these secrets become known, I'll be sure to keep you updated.

So, will Capcom serve up another winner with their popular mascot or will it be a sad attempt to use his name to sell some crap? While RPG fans will be excited some of the traditional Mega Man followers will once again be upset.