View source for Mega Man X

{{About|the video game series|the character|X (Mega Man)|the first game in the series|Mega Man X (video game)|the tenth game in the original series|Mega Man 10}}
{{redirect|Reploids|the short story|The Reploids}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}
{{italic title}}
{{Infobox video game series
| title                  = Mega Man X
| image                  = Mega Man X logo (V2).png
| caption                = Logo from the latest game 
| platforms              = {{plainlist|* [[Super NES]]
* [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]]
* [[MS-DOS]]
* [[PlayStation (console)|PlayStation]]
* [[Sega Saturn|Saturn]]
* [[Game Boy Color]]
* [[GameCube]]
* [[PlayStation 2]]
* [[PlayStation Portable]]
* [[Mobile phone]]
* [[PlayStation 4]]
* [[Xbox One]]
* [[Nintendo Switch]]}}
| developer              = [[Capcom]]<br/>[[Minakuchi Engineering]]
| publisher              = Capcom
| genre                  =  [[Action game|Action]], [[Platform game|Platform]], [[Role-playing video game|role-playing]], [[edutainment]], [[Shoot 'em up|Run 'n gun]]
| parent = ''[[Mega Man]]''
| creator                = 
| artist                 = 
| writer                 = 
| composer               = 
| first release version = ''[[Mega Man X (video game)|Mega Man X]]''
| first release date = {{start date|df=yes|1993|12|17}}
| latest release version = ''[[Mega Man X Dive |Mega Man X DIVE Offline]]''
| latest release date = {{end date|df=yes|2023|8|03}}
}}
{{nihongo foot|'''''Mega Man X'''''|ロックマンX|Rokkuman Ekkusu|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha|extra=lit. 'Rockman X'}} is a series of [[Action game|action]]-[[platformer|platform game]]s released by [[Capcom]]. It is a sub-series of the ''[[Mega Man]]'' franchise previously developed by the same group, with [[Keiji Inafune]] acting as one of the main staff members. The [[Mega Man X (video game)|first game]] was released on 17 December 1993 in Japan on the [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System|Super Famicom]] and the following month on the Super NES in North America. Most of the sequels were ported to [[Microsoft Windows]]. The gameplay introduces new elements to the ''Mega Man'' franchise in the form of [[Mega Man (character)|Mega Man]]'s successor [[X (Mega Man)|X]], including his new skills and power-ups in the form of armors while retaining the ability to decide which boss to fight first.

Set 100 years after the original games, the story follows X, the last creation of [[Dr. Light (Mega Man)|Dr. Light]] whose free-willed programming and intelligence allows for countless other free-willed androids called reploids to be produced. When these reploids begin to go "Maverick" and start to rebel against the humans under the command of [[Sigma (Mega Man X)|Sigma]], X decides to make up for his creations by joining the Hunters. Throughout the series, he is partnered by his superior [[Zero (Mega Man)|Zero]], who becomes a playable character from ''[[Mega Man X3]]'' onwards. A third character named [[Axl (Mega Man X)|Axl]], joins the group from ''[[Mega Man X7]]'' onwards. For the remake ''[[Mega Man Maverick Hunter X]]'', the antagonist Vile debuted as a playable character. While at first Zero possess the same skills as X, he becomes a swordsman in ''[[Mega Man X4]]''.

The video games have also inspired several spin-offs that deal with other villains while several [[manga]] adaptations have been produced. Critical reception to the ''Mega Man X'' series was generally positive for its faster-paced action in comparison to the original series, but the continuous release of installments led to criticism about ''Mega Man X'' lacking innovations. A sequel series titled ''[[Mega Man Zero]]'' followed, and focused on its titular character while several crossovers involving X and other characters from the series have been produced.

==Plot==
[[File:MEGAMANXCharacters.png|thumb|left|Recurring characters featuring: X (foreground), Vile (left), Zero (right) and Sigma (background)]]
The plot focuses on "[[X (Mega Man)|X]]", a mechanical being created by [[Dr. Thomas Light]]. He is a new type of robot with the ability to think, feel, and [[free will|make his own decisions]]. Recognizing the potential danger of this model, Light sealed X away in a diagnostic capsule for over 30 years of testing.<ref>{{cite web|title=Mega Man X|url=http://cheats.ign.com/objects/006/006872.html|publisher=IGN|access-date=8 February 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120414120538/http://cheats.ign.com/objects/006/006872.html|archive-date=14 April 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> X's capsule is uncovered by an archaeologist named [[Dr. Cain]] almost 100 years after X's creation. Excited by the possibilities X presented, Cain disregarded the warnings Light had logged in the capsule and created a legion of robots that replicated X's free will; these robots were called "Reploids" ({{nihongo|"Repliroids"|レプリロイド}} in Japan).<ref>{{cite video game|title=Mega Man Maverick Hunter X |developer=Capcom|publisher=[[Capcom]]|date=2006|platform=PlayStation Portable|quote=It is an unfortunate fact that human life is short and fleeting, and I fear that I will not have the time to ensure the safety of the X project. That is why I have decided to seal him away. Perhaps he will be discovered in the far-flung future, and will fight valiantly to achieve peace for all people. Yes... I firmly believe that this will come to pass. But, I am not without worry. I fear that X will be swept up  in the war we call "progress". I urge the people of the future to remember that  X is my... the world's hope.}}</ref> 

A number of Reploids turned against humans led by the rebellious Reploid [[Sigma (Mega Man X)|Sigma]]. These Reploids are dubbed "Mavericks" ({{nihongo|"Irregulars"|イレギュラー}} in Japan), and a force called the Maverick Hunters ({{nihongo|"Irregular Hunters"|イレギュラーハンター}}) was formed to combat them. The Maverick Hunters were led by Sigma until he, too, became a Maverick and declared war against the humans, thus starting the Maverick War.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Mega Man Maverick Hunter X |developer=Capcom|publisher=[[Capcom]]|date=2006|platform=PlayStation Portable|quote='''Narration:''' 21XX. Robots with the ability to think and act for themselves have been created. They are dubbed "Reploids". The age of humankind and robots working and living together had begun. As robot society spread and prospered, there was in increase in criminal incidents involving Reploids. To combat this new wave of crime, a special investigation and security organization consisting entirely of Reploids was founded. They are the Maverick Hunters.}}</ref> X takes it upon himself to join the Maverick Hunters under his superior [[Zero (Mega Man)|Zero]]. Throughout the series, X and Zero battle against the Mavericks to stop their plots to destroy the human race.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Mega Man Maverick Hunter X |developer=Capcom|publisher=[[Capcom]]|date=2006|platform=PlayStation Portable|quote='''X''': Don't waste your energy talking, Zero. We've gotta fix you up. / '''Zero:''' There's ... no time for that... Sigma is close... Very close... / '''X:''' Zero... / '''Zero:''' Go now... Maverick Hunter X...}}</ref> Sigma continues using his power and a virus to create more conflicts with the Maverick Hunters and attempt to destroy the planet in the process.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Mega Man X4|developer=Capcom|publisher=[[Capcom]]|date=September 1997|platform=Sony PlayStation|quote='''Sigma:''' Hee hee hee. My plan to keep Repliforce and the Maverick Hunters at each other's throats worked perfectly! ... Double did a good job as a spy! / '''X:''' Why you...! / '''Sigma:''' Hee hee hee. Repliforce are the fools this time! Now all that's left is to destroy Earth with the very weapon they made!}}</ref> While X and Zero also gain new allies, in ''Mega Man X7'' they work with the missing Maverick, Axl, who becomes their partner. In the latest game, ''Mega Man X8'', it is revealed New Generation Reploids are doomed to become Sigma copies with the original Sigma dying in the process in his final showdown with the Hunters.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Mega Man X8|developer=Capcom|publisher=[[Capcom]]|date=2005|platform=Sony PlayStation 2|quote='''Lumine:''' To protect ourselves from damage during the accident, we had to copy a sturdy Sigma Body. We new generation Reploids enjoy complete and total immunity to all viruses... So even copying something as dangerous as Sigma provides no risk. / '''X:''' Who are you? / '''Lumine:''' I'm Lumine. I'm the director in charge of the Elevator, and of the Jakob Project. As another part of the project, an advanced generation of Reploids is dispatched to the moon surface in order to work on the project.}}</ref>

After the series reached an unresolved cliffhanger, a game entitled ''[[Mega Man X Dive]]'' was released by Capcom Taiwan in which a human plays ''Mega Man X'', until due in part to some corrupted data known as Maverick Data, he/she gets transported into the Deep Log, a massive database with data on every Mega Man game. The player must progress through the scrambled code of the Maverick Wars, [[Mega Man Zero|Elf Wars]], and the [[Mega Man ZX Advent|Game Of Destiny]], to destroy the Maverick Data causing the slow corruption of the Deep Log.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.capcom-games.com/megaman/xdive-offline/en-us/|title=Story|website=Capcom|access-date=10 October 2023}}</ref> In contrast to the ''Mega Man Zero'' and ''ZX'' sequel series, the spin-off ''[[Mega Man X: Command Mission]]'' instead is set in a future where X is a veteran Maverick Hunter dealing with rebellions.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Mega Man X: Command Mission|developer=Capcom|publisher=[[Capcom]]|date=September 2004|platform=Sony PlayStation 2|quote='''Redips:''' Your mission is to infiltrate Giga City and halt the activities of Epsilon's organization, the Rebellion. I'm afraid the team that went in before you has likely perished. You are our final hope. If you fail this mission, then we... We will have no choice but to launch an indiscriminate assault on Giga City. The whereabouts of Epsilon are unknown. But, we're getting an energy reading from a certain area of ruins. Survey the ruins first.}}</ref> Capcom expressed their desire to portray X and Zero as stronger versions in this spin-off of their previous incarnations even if they come across as out-of-character to the audience.<ref name="guide">{{Cite book|isbn=978-0-7440-0399-4 |date=15 September 2004|title=Mega Man X: Command Mission Official Strategy Guide |publisher=[[Brady Games]]}}</ref>

==Games==
===Main games===
{{Timeline of release years
|title=''Mega Man X''
|compressempty = yes
|1993 ='''''[[Mega Man X (video game)|Mega Man X]]'''''
|1994 = '''''[[Mega Man X2]]'''''
|1995 = '''''[[Mega Man X3]]'''''
|1997 = '''''[[Mega Man X4]]'''''
|2000a = '''''[[Mega Man X5]]'''''
|2000b =''[[Mega Man Xtreme]]''
|2001a =''[[Mega Man Xtreme 2]]''
|2001b = '''''[[Mega Man X6]]'''''
|2003 = '''''[[Mega Man X7]]'''''
|2004a =''[[Mega Man X: Command Mission]]''
|2004b = '''''[[Mega Man X8]]'''''
|2005 = '''''[[Mega Man Maverick Hunter X]]'''''
|2006 =''[[Mega Man X Collection]]''
|2018a =''[[Mega Man X Legacy Collection]]''
|2018b =''[[Mega Man X Legacy Collection 2]]''
|2020 =''[[Mega Man X DiVE]]''
|2023 =''Mega Man X DiVE Offline''}}
*''Mega Man X'' was released for the [[Super Nintendo]] in Japan on 17 December 1993,<ref>{{cite book|isbn=978-1-897376-80-5 |date=6 January 2010 |title=Mega Man X: Official Complete Works|publisher=[[UDON|Udon Entertainment]] | pages=6–15}}</ref> 19 January 1994<ref>{{cite web|author=Nintendo staff| title=SNES Games | url=https://www.nintendo.com/consumer/gameslist/manuals/snes_games.pdf | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110614155658/http://www.nintendo.com/consumer/gameslist/manuals/snes_games.pdf | publisher=[[Nintendo]] | archive-date=14 June 2011| access-date=24 September 2011}}</ref> and on 1 May 1994.<ref name="total">{{Cite journal| author=''Total!'' staff|journal=[[Total!]] | publisher=[[Future plc|Future Publishing]] |date = 1 May 1994| title=''Mega Man X'' | pages=30–1 | language=de | issn=0964-9352}}</ref>
*''Mega Man X2'' was released for the Super Nintendo on 16 December 1994 in Japan,<ref>{{cite book|isbn=978-1-897376-80-5 |date=6 January 2010 |title=Mega Man X: Official Complete Works|publisher=[[UDON|Udon Entertainment]] | pages=16–27}}</ref> January 1995 in North America,<ref>{{cite web| author=Nintendo staff|title=Super NES Games | url=https://www.nintendo.com/consumer/gameslist/manuals/snes_games.pdf | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110614155658/http://www.nintendo.com/consumer/gameslist/manuals/snes_games.pdf | publisher=[[Nintendo]] | archive-date=14 June 2011| access-date=24 September 2011}}</ref> and 18 October 1995 in PAL regions.<ref>{{Cite journal| author=''Mega Fun'' staff|journal=Mega Fun | publisher=Computec Verlag |date = 14 October 1996| title=''Mega Man X2'' | page=30 | language=de| issn=0946-6282}}</ref>
*''Mega Man X3'' was released for the Super Nintendo on 1 December 1995.<ref>{{cite book|isbn=978-1-897376-80-5 |date=6 January 2010 |title=Mega Man X: Official Complete Works|publisher=[[UDON|Udon Entertainment]] | pages=28–39}}</ref> In Europe it was released on 15 May 1996.<ref>{{Cite journal| author=''Total!'' staff|journal=[[Total!]] | publisher=[[Future plc]] |date = 15 May 1996| title=''Mega Man X3'' | pages=36–7 | language=de}}</ref> It was released on 4 January 1996 in North America.<ref>{{cite web| author=Nintendo staff| title=Super NES Games | url=https://www.nintendo.com/consumer/gameslist/manuals/snes_games.pdf | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110614155658/http://www.nintendo.com/consumer/gameslist/manuals/snes_games.pdf | publisher=[[Nintendo]] | archive-date=14 June 2011| access-date=24 September 2011}}</ref> A [[porting|port]] of ''Mega Man X3'' was released on the [[Sega Saturn]] and [[PlayStation (console)|PlayStation]] in Japan in 26 April 1996 and in Europe in March 1997.<ref name="napc">{{cite web| author=Hulsey, Joe| date=5 October 1998 | title=Capcom announces ''Mega Man X3''  | url=http://www.cdmag.com/articles/014/148/mm3.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021014225238/http://www.cdmag.com/articles/014/148/mm3.html | archive-date=14 October 2002 | work=[[Computer Games Magazine]] |publisher=[[TheGlobe.com]]|access-date=15 February 2012}}</ref><ref name="r20"/><ref name="ossrev">{{cite magazine|magazine=[[Sega Saturn Magazine]] | publisher=[[EMAP]] | date=1 April 1997 | author=Yeo, Matt | title=Review: ''Mega Man X3'' | issue=18 | pages=74–5 | issn=1360-9424}}</ref> Capcom stated that it was licensing these versions to a USA company for release in North America,<ref>{{cite magazine |title=1996 PlayStation Show |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |issue=83|publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |date=June 1996 |page=56}}</ref> but ultimately they were never released in the region.
*''Mega Man X4'' was initially developed as a [[Sega Saturn]] [[Platform exclusivity|exclusive]] and slated for a June 1997 release,<ref>{{cite web | author=Johnston, Chris | date=1997 | title=VideoGameSpot: Mega Man X4 Preview | url=http://www.videogamespot.com/sat/pltfrm/megamnx4/index.html | work=VideoGameSpot | publisher=SpotMedia Communications | access-date=14 November 2010 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970414012218/http://www.videogamespot.com/sat/pltfrm/megamnx4/index.html | archive-date=14 April 1997 | url-status=live | df=mdy-all }}</ref> but it was delayed and made [[Cross-platform software|multi-platform]].<ref>{{cite magazine |author=Major Mike |title=Mega Man X4|magazine=[[GamePro]] |issue=109 |publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]] |date=October 1997|page=88 |quote=Originally slated for release only on the Saturn, X4 is also now coming to the PlayStation.}}</ref> Both console versions of ''Mega Man X4'' were released in Japan on 1 August 1997.<ref>{{cite web | author=Fielder, Joe | date=1 August 1997 | title=Mega Man X4 Released in Japan | url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/2467090.html?tag=result%3Btitle%3B1 | work=[[GameSpot]] | publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] | access-date=17 July 2010 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110628221420/http://www.gamespot.com/news/2467090.html?tag=result%3Btitle%3B1 | archive-date=28 June 2011 | url-status=live | df=mdy-all }}</ref>
*''Mega Man X5'' game was first released in Japan for the PlayStation on 30 November 2000.<ref>{{cite book|isbn=978-1-897376-80-5 |date=6 January 2010 |title=Mega Man X: Official Complete Works|publisher=[[UDON|Udon Entertainment]] | pages=48–55}}</ref> The North American release followed the next month on 31 January 2001.<ref>{{cite press release|title=Mega Man X5 Now Available |url=http://www.gamersunderground.net/psx/megamanx5/press_47.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041231045606/http://www.gamersunderground.net/psx/megamanx5/press_47.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=31 December 2004 |publisher=[[Capcom]] |date=1 February 2001 |accessdate=12 July 2010 }}</ref> It was later released in Europe on 3 August 2001.<ref>{{cite web | title=Megaman X5 (PS) | website=Amazon UK | url=https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00005N54D/ | accessdate=4 September 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141220040656/http://www.amazon.co.uk/Capcom-Megaman-X5-PS/dp/B00005N54D | archive-date=20 December 2014 | url-status=live }}</ref> A Microsoft Windows port was first released to retail in Asia on 30 July 2001,<ref>{{cite web | author=Capcom staff | title=PC 洛克人X5 |trans-title=PC ''Rockman X5'' | url=http://www.capcomasia.com.hk/rockman/rockexe5_pc2.htm | archive-url=https://archive.today/20120724073213/http://www.capcomasia.com.hk/rockman/rockexe5_pc2.htm | url-status=dead | archive-date=24 July 2012 | publisher=[[Capcom]] | language=Chinese | accessdate=7 March 2012}}</ref> in Japan on 24 May 2002,<ref name="r20"/> and in North America on 20 August 2002.<ref>{{cite web | title=Mega Man X5: System Requirements | url=http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=39518&tab=sysreqs | publisher=[[Allgame]] | accessdate=27 December 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141115141645/http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=39518&tab=sysreqs | archive-date=15 November 2014 | url-status=live | df=mdy-all }}</ref>
*''Mega Man X6'' released on for the PlayStation on 29 November 2001 in Japan,<ref>{{cite book|isbn=978-1-897376-80-5|date=6 January 2010 |title=Mega Man X: Official Complete Works|publisher=[[UDON|Udon Entertainment]] | pages=56–63}}</ref> 11 December 2001 in North America,<ref>{{Cite web |date=10 April 2002 |title=Press Releases |url=http://www.capcom.com:80/news/news.xpml?prid=300019 |access-date=21 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020410101732/http://www.capcom.com:80/news/news.xpml?prid=300019 |archive-date=10 April 2002 }}</ref> and 8 February 2002 in Europe.<ref>{{cite web| title=Megaman X6 | website=Amazon UK | url=https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00005YTV2/ | access-date=4 September 2011}}</ref>
*''Mega Man X7'' was first released in Japan for the [[PlayStation 2]] on 17 July 2003<ref>{{cite book|isbn=978-1-897376-80-5 |date=6 January 2010 |title=Mega Man X: Official Complete Works|publisher=[[UDON|Udon Entertainment]] | pages=64–9}}</ref> in North America on 14 October 2003<ref>{{cite web| author=jkdmedia | date=14 October 2003 | title=Capcom Ships MEGA MAN X7 for the PS2 - News | url=http://www.gamezone.com/news/item/capcom_ships_mega_man_x7_for_the_ps2/ | publisher=GameZone | access-date=24 February 2011}}</ref> and Europe on 5 March 2004.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news240204megamanconnectivity?unbury=169483 |title=Mega Men come together |first=Tom |last=Bramwell |date=24 February 2004 |access-date=19 March 2011 |website=[[Eurogamer]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121008121301/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news240204megamanconnectivity?unbury=169483 |archive-date=8 October 2012 |url-status=live  }}</ref>
*''Mega Man X8'' was first released for the PlayStation 2 on 7 December 2004 in Japan,<ref>{{cite web| author=Surette, Tim | date=7 December 2004 | title=Viewtiful Joe 2, Mega Man X8 double-team PS2 | url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/action/megamanx8/news.html?sid=6114591&mode=all | publisher=[[GameSpot]] | accessdate=25 June 2010}}</ref> in Europe on 11 February 2005<ref>{{cite web | author=Dunham, Jeremy | date=10 January 2005 | title=Capcom's European Plans | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/578/578636p1.html | publisher=[[IGN]] | accessdate=25 June 2010 | archive-date=29 June 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629133529/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/578/578636p1.html | url-status=live }}</ref>
*''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' was released in North America for the [[PlayStation Portable]] on 31 January 2006,<ref name="pspna">{{cite web|date=1 February 2006 |author=IGN staff |title=Capcom Releases ''Mega Man Maverick Hunter X'' |url=http://games.ign.com/articles/684/684945p1.html |website=IGN |access-date=25 December 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629144430/http://games.ign.com/articles/684/684945p1.html |archive-date=29 June 2011 }}</ref> while a European release followed it on 3 March 2006.<ref name="psppal">{{cite web
 |author=Luke 
 |date=16 January 2006 |title=Updated Australian Release List - 16/01/06 
 |url=http://palgn.com.au/3707/updated-australian-release-list-16-01-06/?show_my_palgn=0 
 |work=PALGN 
 |publisher=IGN 
 |access-date=31 January 2011 |url-status=dead 
 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121010044313/http://palgn.com.au/3707/updated-australian-release-list-16-01-06/?show_my_palgn=0 
 |archive-date=10 October 2012 }}</ref>

===Spin-offs===
*''Mega Man Xtreme'' was released in Japan for the [[Game Boy Color]] on 20 October 2000,<ref>{{cite book|isbn=978-1-897376-80-5 |date=6 January 2010 |title=Mega Man X: Official Complete Works|publisher=[[UDON|Udon Entertainment]] | pages=78–9}}</ref> and in North America on 10 January 2001.<ref>{{cite web| author=Capcom staff | date=10 January 2001 | title=''Mega Man Xtreme'' Now Available, ''Metal Walker'' Coming Soon | url=http://www.capcom.com/news/news.xpml?prid=250011 | archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20020410120111/http://www.capcom.com/news/news.xpml?prid=250011| publisher=[[Nintendo]] | archivedate=10 April 2002| accessdate=27 February 2012}}</ref>
*''Mega Man Xtreme 2'' was released in Japan for the Game Boy Color on 19 July 2001,<ref>{{cite book |isbn=978-1-897376-80-5 |date=6 January 2010 |title=Mega Man X: Official Complete Works|publisher=[[UDON|Udon Entertainment]] | pages=80–1}}</ref> and in North America in November the same year.<ref>{{cite web |author=Nintendo staff |title=Game Boy Color Games |url=https://www.nintendo.com/consumer/gameslist/manuals/cgb_games.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110714185239/http://www.nintendo.com/consumer/gameslist/manuals/cgb_games.pdf |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |archive-date=14 July 2011 |access-date=24 September 2011}}</ref> On 18 July 2013, it was confirmed ''Mega Man Xtreme 2'' would be released on the 3DS Virtual Console in Japan on 25 December 2013,<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2013/07/classic_game_boy_mega_man_titles_coming_to_3ds_virtual_console/ |title=Classic Game Boy Mega Man Titles Coming To 3DS Virtual Console |date=18 July 2013 |access-date=20 July 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130721130547/http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2013/07/classic_game_boy_mega_man_titles_coming_to_3ds_virtual_console |archive-date=21 July 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref> and in North America on 29 May 2014.<ref name="mega-may">{{Cite web |url=https://www.nintendo.com/eshop/mega-may |title=Nintendo eShop - Mega May |access-date=22 July 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140502013619/http://www.nintendo.com/eshop/mega-may |archive-date=2 May 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
*''Mega Man X: Command Mission'' was released in Japan for the PlayStation 2 and [[GameCube]] on 29 July 2004; in North America on 21 September 2004; and in Europe on 19 November 2004. The North American PS2 version includes an unlockable demo version of ''[[Mega Man X8]]''. To coincide with the release the launch of the game in North America, NubyTech announced ''Mega Man''-themed [[gamepad|game controllers]] for both console versions.<ref>{{cite press release|title=Blue Bomber Fans Rejoice as Nubytech, Capcom Announce ''Mega Man'' Controllers|url=http://www.gamespot.com/gamecube/rpg/megamanxcommandmission/news.html?sid=6105655&mode=all|work=[[GameSpot]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|date=25 August 2004|access-date=28 June 2010|archive-date=7 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121107043458/http://www.gamespot.com/news/blue-bomber-fans-rejoice-as-nubytech-capcom-announce-mega-man-controllers-6105655}}</ref> However, only the GameCube version of the controller arrived with the release of ''[[Mega Man X Collection]]'' in early 2006.<ref>{{cite magazine |magazine=[[Nintendo Power]] | publisher=[[Nintendo|Nintendo of America]] | title=News: Invasion of the ''Mega Men'' | date=August 2005 | page=21 | issue=194 | issn=1041-9551}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | author=Block, Gerry | date=23 January 2006 | title=NubyTech's ''Mega Man X'' Controller for GC | url=http://gear.ign.com/articles/682/682875p1.html | website=[[IGN]] | access-date=28 June 2010 | archive-date=9 December 2010 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101209162934/http://gear.ign.com/articles/682/682875p1.html | url-status=live }}</ref>
*The ''Mega Man X Collection'' was released on 10 January 2006 for the PlayStation 2 and GameCube.<ref name="shipdate">{{cite web | author=Dunham, Jeremy | date=10 January 2006 | title=Mega Man X Ships to Stores | url=http://cube.ign.com/articles/680/680536p1.html | publisher=IGN | access-date=8 June 2010 | archive-date=17 December 2010 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101217044724/http://cube.ign.com/articles/680/680536p1.html | url-status=live }}</ref>
*The ''[[Mega Man X Legacy Collection]]'' became available for Windows via [[Steam (service)|Steam]], [[PlayStation 4]], [[Xbox One]], and [[Nintendo Switch]] on 24 July 2018, worldwide and 26 July 2018, in Japan.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2018-04-10/mega-man-x-legacy-collections-ship-for-ps4-switch-xbox-one-pc-in-japan-on-july-26/.130187 |title=Mega Man X Legacy Collections Ship for PS4, Switch, Xbox One, PC in Japan on July 26 |access-date=13 April 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413212315/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2018-04-10/mega-man-x-legacy-collections-ship-for-ps4-switch-xbox-one-pc-in-japan-on-july-26/.130187 |archive-date=13 April 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.capcom-unity.com/mega_man/blog/2018/04/10/mega-man-x-legacy-collection-1-and-2-launch-july-24th?ts=1523427260 | title=Mega Man X Legacy Collection 1 and 2 launch July 24th | archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180411174917/http://www.capcom-unity.com/mega_man/blog/2018/04/10/mega-man-x-legacy-collection-1-and-2-launch-july-24th?ts=1523427260 |archivedate=11 April 2018 | publisher=Capcom Unity}}</ref> The names of the Maverick bosses were changed to translations of their original Japanese names.<ref>[https://www.gamespot.com/articles/mega-man-undoes-one-of-its-weirdest-choices-with-n/1100-6460045/ Mega Man Undoes One Of Its Weirdest Choices With New X Collection] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628044409/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/mega-man-undoes-one-of-its-weirdest-choices-with-n/1100-6460045/ |date=28 June 2018 }} -Gamespot</ref>
*''[[Mega Man X DiVE]]'' is a mobile game created by Capcom Taiwan developers. Released in parts of East and Southeast Asia on 24 March 2020. Released in Australia and India on 26 March 2020.<ref name="gnn">{{cite web|url=https://gnn.gamer.com.tw/detail.php?sn=255007|title=《ROCKMAN X DiVE 離線版》製作團隊專訪 為了讓玩家盡情享受遊戲所打造的「離線」版本|website=GNN Gamer|access-date=22 September 2023}}</ref>
*''Mega Man X DiVE Offline'' is a port of the original ''DiVE'' but without any online system in September 2023.<ref name="offline">{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/daily-briefs/2023-08-18/mega-man-x-dive-offline-game-launches-on-september-1/.201410|title=Mega Man X DiVE Offline Game Launches on September 1|website=Anime News Network|access-date=21 September 2023}}</ref>

===Cancelled games===
====''Rockman X Interactive'' (1995–1996)====
An [[interactive movie]] game known as ''Rockman X Interactive'' was in development between December 1995 and 1996;<ref name="RMXInter">{{Cite web |last=Protodude |date=27 April 2019 |title=The Hunt for "''Rockman X Interactive''" Part 1: Initial Findings and First Translations |url=https://www.rockman-corner.com/2019/04/the-hunt-for-rockman-x-interactive-part.html |access-date=13 March 2022 |website=Rockman Corner}}</ref> it would have featured several new characters and reportedly greatly influenced the direction of ''[[Super Adventure Rockman]]'',<ref name="RMXInter" /> another interactive movie which released in 1998.<ref>{{Cite book |title=Mega Man: Official Complete Works |publisher=[[Udon Entertainment]] |date=6 January 2010 |isbn=978-1-897376-79-9 |pages=89}}</ref> A copy of the design documents were once being sold on [[Yahoo! Auctions|Yahoo! Auctions Japan]], but were later taken down due to concerns about how the seller obtained them.<ref name="RMXInter" />

====''Maverick Hunter'' (2010)====
{{Main|Maverick Hunter}}
In 2010, Armature Studio, a development studio founded by the creators of ''[[Metroid Prime]]'', were developing a [[first-person shooter]] trilogy titled ''[[Maverick Hunter]]'', which was intended to build on the mythology of ''Mega Man X''. However, it was cancelled by Capcom after six months of development due to it being considered a "significant gamble" for the company.<ref>{{cite web|last=McWhertor |first=Michael |url=http://www.polygon.com/2013/4/9/4179628/mega-man-fps-maverick-hunter |title=Maverick Hunter: The Mega Man first-person shooter that could have been |publisher=Polygon |date=9 April 2013 |access-date=14 July 2016}}</ref> The game was one of the several cancelled ''Mega Man'' games of the 2010s, which also included ''[[Mega Man Legends 3|Legends 3]]'', ''Online'', ''[[Mega Man Universe|Universe]]'' and ''Star Force 4''.''<ref>{{cite web |last=Ashcraft |first=Brian |date=31 March 2011 |title=Mega Man Universe Is Totally Canceled |url=http://kotaku.com/5787516/mega-man-universe-is-totally-canceled |url-status=live |work=[[Kotaku]] |publisher=[[G/O Media]] |access-date=27 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150324131535/http://kotaku.com/5787516/mega-man-universe-is-totally-canceled |archive-date=24 March 2015}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{cite web |last=Sounders |first=Mike |date=17 June 2019 |title=Capcom was working on a Mega Man Star Force 4 at one point |url=https://www.destructoid.com/capcom-was-working-on-a-mega-man-star-force-4-at-one-point/ |access-date=23 February 2022 |website=Destructoid |publisher=[[Enthusiast Gaming]]}}</ref>''

====''Rockman XZ: Time Rift'' (2020–2021)====
''Rockman XZ: Time Rift'' was first revealed in September 2020 on NebulaJoy's official website, which included the game's logo.<ref>{{Cite web |date=4 September 2020 |title=NebulaJoy got strategic investment from Tencent! |url=https://www.nebulajoy.com/news/24.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210614220729/https://www.nebulajoy.com/news/24.html |archive-date=14 June 2021 |access-date=13 March 2022 |publisher=NebulaJoy}}</ref> It was a crossover game between the ''X'' and ''Zero'' series for mobile phones, in a similar vein to ''X DiVE''. Shortly after footage of the game leaked online,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Protodude |date=27 September 2021 |title=Possible "Rockman XZ: Time Rift" Footage Surfaces |url=https://www.rockman-corner.com/2021/09/rockman-xz-time-rift-footage-leaked.html |access-date=13 March 2022 |website=Rockman Corner}}</ref> it was announced that the title was cancelled in August due to the underperformance of ''Devil May Cry: Pillar of Combat''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Protodude |date=5 October 2021 |title=Welp, "Rockman XZ: Time Rift" is Probably Cancelled |url=https://www.rockman-corner.com/2021/10/welp-rockman-xz-time-rift-is-probably.html |access-date=13 March 2022 |website=Rockman Corner}}</ref>

==Gameplay==
[[File:Xarmorxsecond.png|thumb|left|The player uses X's leg parts to have access to high areas in ''Mega Man X2'' while using the arm parts to perform a stronger X-Buster shot.]]
The original ''Mega Man'' series on the [[Nintendo Entertainment System|NES]] consisted of [[2D computer graphics|2D]] [[platform game]]s that focus on [[Run and gun (video game)|run-and-gun]] gameplay. ''Mega Man X'' uses the same basic principles as its precursors but with many added options.<ref>{{cite magazine | author=Slasher Quan | title=ProReview: ''Mega Man X'' |magazine=[[GamePro]] | issue=54 |pages=74–5 | publisher=Infotainment World, Inc. | date=January 1994 | issn=1042-8658}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author1=Nutt, Christian  |author2=Speer, Justin  |name-list-style=amp |title=The History of ''Mega Man'' |url=http://www.gamespot.com/features/6076983/p-10.html |work=[[GameSpot]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |access-date=26 December 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100209194747/http://www.gamespot.com/features/6076983/p-10.html |archive-date=9 February 2010 }}</ref><ref name="1upretro">{{cite web | author=Oxford, Nadia | date=10 May 2007 | title=''Mega Man'' Retrospective: Get Equipped with 20 Years | url=http://www.1up.com/features/equipped-20-years | work=[[1UP.com]] | publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] | access-date=28 December 2010 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110820024350/http://www.1up.com/features/equipped-20-years | archive-date=20 August 2011 }}</ref> X has, by default beginning with ''X2'', the ability to dash along the ground, cling to walls, jump off walls, and dash jump to cover greater distance than a normal jump. This all gives X more mobility than his original series counterpart. At certain times, the player can pilot vehicles including in an attack [[mecha|mech]] and an attack [[Hovercraft|hovercycle]].<ref name="manual1"/>

X is also able to locate capsules and tanks that permanently upgrade his armor. These upgrades are all either hidden or require an exceptional feat to reach.<ref name="gamefan">{{cite journal | journal=[[GameFan]] | publisher=DieHard Gamers Club  | title=Reviews: ''Mega Man X2'' | volume=3 | author=Halverson, Dave | author-link=Dave Halverson | issue=1 | date=January 1995 |pages=24, 60–1 | issn=1092-7212}}</ref> Upgrades common to each game are increased maximum hit points, "sub-tanks" which can be filled with surplus health pick-ups and then used at any time to refill the character's hit points, and the ability to charge weapons earned from bosses, which gives them an enhanced secondary fire mode. In later games, there are multiple armor types available that can either be mixed and matched, or completed for additional armor set bonuses.<ref name="manual1">{{cite book|url=https://www.retrogames.cz/manualy/SNES/Mega_Man_X3_-_SNES_-_Manual.pdf|title=Mega Man X3 ''Instruction Booklet''|date=January 1996|publisher=[[Capcom|Capcom Entertainment, Inc.]]|editor=Capcom|location=Sunnyvale, CA|pages=6–15|id=SNS-P-AR3E|access-date=7 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190307112352/https://www.retrogames.cz/manualy/SNES/Mega_Man_X3_-_SNES_-_Manual.pdf|archive-date=7 March 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

''Mega Man X3'' is the first game in the series which allows the player to play as X's ally Zero, although his playability is more limited compared to later games in the series.<ref>{{cite web | author=Oxford, Nadia | date=17 May 2007 | title=Mega Manniversary: Jumping the Shark Man | url=http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3159529 | work=[[1UP.com]] | publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] | access-date=28 December 2010 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121107055002/http://www.1up.com/features/jumping-shark-man | archive-date=7 November 2012 }}</ref> He relies on his saber almost exclusively starting in ''X4''.<ref name="booklet">{{cite book|url=https://segaretro.org/images/6/6d/Megamanx4_sat_us_manual.pdf |title=Mega Man X4 Instruction Booklet|date=September 1997|publisher=[[Capcom|Capcom Entertainment, Inc.]]|editor=Capcom|location=Sunnyvale, CA|pages=4–11|id=SLUS-00561}}</ref> Zero is more melee-oriented than X by using a "Z-Saber" sword. Rather than acquiring weapons from the bosses (with the exception of his Giga Attack), Zero learns special techniques that do not require ammo such as the "Hienkyaku" air-dash and "Kuuenbu" double-jump.<ref name="booklet"/> However, Zero cannot upgrade any of his body parts in this game.<ref name="booklet"/> In ''X6'' and ''X7'', the player can rescue Reploids to replenish health and acquire upgrades not otherwise available.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.capcom.co.jp/newproducts/consumer/psrockx6/topic/index.html|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100322202748/http://www.capcom.co.jp/newproducts/consumer/psrockx6/topic/index.html|publisher=Capcom|accessdate=13 May 2023|archivedate=22 March 2010|title=Index}}</ref> In ''X7'', the playable character Axl is introduced. Axl utilizes two guns known as Axl Bullets. In ''X8'', a tag system is introduced, along with a new Double Attack feature, where the two selected characters can attack at the same time.<ref name="prev">{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2004/11/17/mega-man-x8-2|website=IGN|accessdate=8 April 2023|title=Mega Man X8|date=17 November 2004 |archive-date=9 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230409003828/https://www.ign.com/articles/2004/11/17/mega-man-x8-2|url-status=live}}</ref>

Mavericks serve like a [[Boss (video gaming)|boss]]. The stage boss Mavericks are based on various types of [[organism]]s (usually animals, but plants and fungi are also represented) instead of being humanoid, as were most of the bosses in the classic series, although their attacks and names are usually based on mechanical or chemical phenomena or laws of physics like in the original games. Defeating a Maverick allows X to use that Maverick's signature weapon.<ref name="manual2">{{cite book |editor=Capcom |title=Mega Man X ''Instruction Booklet'' |date=December 1993 |publisher=[[Capcom|Capcom Entertainment, Inc.]] | pages=11–7 | id=SNS-RX-USA}}</ref> Each boss is particularly weak to one special weapon, so the player may complete the stages in an order that best exploits these weaknesses.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/features/6076983/p-12.html|title=The History of ''Mega Man''|author1=Nutt, Christian|author2=Speer, Justin|date=6 November 2003|work=[[GameSpot]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091212164327/http://www.gamespot.com/features/6076983/p-12.html|archive-date=12 December 2009|url-status=live|access-date=26 December 2010|name-list-style=amp}}</ref>

==Production==
[[File:Keiji Inafune - Japan Expo 13- 2012-0706- P1410048.JPG|thumb|Long time Capcom developer Keiji Inafune was partly responsible for the creation of the ''Mega Man X'' series as part improving the original ''Mega Man'' series.]]
''Mega Man X'' was developed by a team at [[Capcom]] which had worked on the long-running ''Mega Man'' series for the NES. Lead artist [[Keiji Inafune]] (credited as a planner as Inemuryar) recounted that the development of ''Mega Man X'' required a lot of brainstorming for its storyline and content where the team's goal was to branch out from original ''Mega Man'' games while still maintaining their fundamentals.<ref name="r20"/> In the original ''Mega Man'' series, Inafune typically designed the protagonist while his protégé Hayato Kaji handled the supporting characters. However, their roles were reversed for ''Mega Man X''.<ref name="r20"/> Inafune and Kaji worked simultaneously on the various designs for X with different pieces of armor attached. The idea for the armor parts came about because the game was planned during a time when [[role-playing video game]]s were becoming extremely popular. Inafune felt that ''Mega Man'' had always represented a classic [[action game]] formula in which the hero earns his defeated enemies' abilities; the armor parts were added to supplement this concept.<ref name="r20">{{cite book|isbn=978-1-897376-80-5 |date=6 January 2010 |title=Mega Man X: Official Complete Works|publisher=[[UDON|Udon Entertainment]] | pages=6–15}}</ref>

The development team additionally wanted the world of ''Mega Man X'' to be much more sophisticated than in the first ''Mega Man'' series. They wanted to accomplish this with Zero's "hardcore" personality and the game's antagonist Sigma. As stated by Inafune, the original series' villain [[Doctor Wily|Dr. Wily]] had "a side to him you couldn't really hate". Sigma, however, was written as a once-good character suffering an "unforeseen error" that leads him to be completely evil.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Mega Man X Official Complete Works|publisher=UDON Entertainment Corp.|year=2009|pages=93}}</ref> Starting with ''Mega Man X2'', Inafune wanted to use a computer virus as a plot device, something he considered a more interesting idea than a tangible villain. This led to the creation of the Sigma Virus seen in ''Mega Man X3'' onwards.<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vwlYPgAACAAJ|title=Mega Man X: Official Complete Works|date=6 January 2010|publisher=[[UDON|Udon Entertainment]]|isbn=978-1-897376-80-5|page=16}}</ref>

Originally, the ''Mega Man X3'' team had no plans to provide a sequel until their superiors from Capcom aimed to try the ''X'' series on new hardware. The team aimed to make Zero different from X, he was remade as a proper samurai-like warrior who wields a Z-Saber instead of shooting like X. In order to get the approval to make Zero playable, the developers gave him special moves based on the ''[[Street Fighter]]'' [[fighting game]] series to compensate for lacking X's powers. In particular, Capcom struggled in the beginning with the number of backgrounds they had to draw, but were pleased with results. There were twice as many sprite animation patterns to create.<ref name="shimu">{{cite web|url=https://shmuplations.com/megamanx4/|website=Shumplations|access-date=6 April 2023|title=Mega Man X4 – 1997 Developer Interview}}</ref> Instead of presenting Repliforce as blatantly evil villains like Sigma, the writing staff decided to leave them some "moral leeway". They did not want the ideals of Repliforce and the Maverick Hunters to be so [[Black-and-white dualism|black-and-white]].<ref name="r20"/> 

Ever since the series started, Inafune wanted to add Dr. Wily to the story leading to the twist of ''Mega Man X4'' that reveals he created Zero to set the climax of the series.<ref>{{cite book|title=ロックマン 10年史 大事典|trans-title=Rockman 10 Years History Book|page=77|isbn=978-4061033184|publisher=Kodansha|year=1998}}</ref> ''Mega Man X5'' was originally intended to be the final game in the ''Mega Man X'' series. According to Keiji Inafune, he had little to do with the title and told the staff his idea.<ref name="r20"/> Much to the dismay of Inafune, Capcom decided to publish ''[[Mega Man X6]]'' the following year, in which Zero survived his fight from ''X5''.<ref name="bestdamn">{{cite magazine |author=Hoffman, Chris |title=The Best Damn Mega Man Feature. Period |magazine=[[Play (US magazine)|Play]] |volume=3 |issue= 4 |date=April 2004}}</ref> Suetsugu believed that the navigator Alia might be the most fitting heroine in the series in contrast to the tragic Iris from ''Mega Man X4''.<ref>{{cite book|isbn=978-1-897376-80-5 |date=6 January 2010 |title=Mega Man X: Official Complete Works|publisher=[[UDON|Udon Entertainment]] | pages=198}}</ref> Alia stood out as the only female character, which Suetsugu did not mind since the game is aimed towards a young demographic. As the idea of having a calm woman as navigator proved difficult to execute, the other navigator Roll Caskett from ''[[Mega Man Legends]]'' was used as a reference.<ref>{{cite web |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130701101946fw_/http://www.capcom.co.jp/newproducts/consumer/psrockx5/comment2.html |url=http://www.capcom.co.jp/newproducts/consumer/psrockx5/comment2.html |title=■開発者コメント～エイリ～ |publisher=Capcom |archive-date=1 July 2013 |access-date=21 April 2023}}</ref>

Kitabayashi explained that transitioning the character models of ''Mega Man X'' from [[2D computer graphics|2D]] to [[3D computer graphics|3D graphics]] was a challenge, but that including both 2D and 3D gameplay was not, as they had planned to have them in equal amounts for the game.<ref name="gamespyinterview">{{cite web |author=Nutt, Christian |date=14 October 2003 |title=Interview: Tatsuya Kitabayashi on Mega Man X |url=http://archive.gamespy.com/interviews/october03/megaman/index.shtml |publisher=[[GameSpy]] |access-date=19 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110621231653/http://archive.gamespy.com/interviews/october03/megaman/index.shtml |archive-date=21 June 2011}}</ref> The development team took into account the less-than-favorable reception for ''Mega Man X6'', but instead of simply trying to make the next game new and fresh with 3D graphics, they decided to focus on "getting 3D right".<ref name="gamespyinterview"/> The team also attempted to build upon the action-style gameplay for which the ''Mega Man'' franchise is known along with the more adult-themed storyline of the ''Mega Man X'' series. This involved adding the newer, non-traditional character Axl to deepen and better the narrative. Kitabayashi emphasized, "He's young, he's running away. He's like the new younger character of the group, and that's why I wanted to put him in there."<ref name="gamespyinterview"/> However, the development team chose not to pursue 3D gameplay for ''Mega Man X8'' simply because of its graphical style.<ref name="r20"/> The game's main illustrator, Tatsuya Yoshikawa, was an assistant in ''X7'' and took a bigger role. He was responsible for designing the protagonists, the Maverick bosses, and the newer ancillary cast. Yoshikawa took into account what the characters may resemble if they were toys, and even imitated the joints of [[Kaiyodo#Revoltech|Revoltech]] figures. Similar to his previous work in ''X7'', Yoshikawa wanted the designs to pander to his feelings about the first ''Mega Man X'' game while still following his own ideas too.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Mega Man X Official Complete Works|publisher=UDON Entertainment Corp.|year=2009|pages=216–217}}</ref> The three main characters were revised for ''Mega Man X8'' as Yoshikawa planned to give them more unique features to contrast their personalities.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Mega Man X Official Complete Works|publisher=UDON Entertainment Corp.|year=2009|pages=219}}</ref>

==Other media==
===Animation===
In ''Maverick Hunter X'', the player can unlock an [[OVA]] called ''The Day of Sigma'' that details the events leading up to the first level, including Sigma turning Maverick;<ref>{{Cite web |last=Navarro |first=Alex |date=16 May 2006 |title=Mega Man Maverick Hunter X Review |url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/mega-man-maverick-hunter-x-review/1900-6143366/ |access-date=12 March 2022 |website=[[GameSpot]] |publisher=[[Red Ventures]]}}</ref> it was produced by [[Xebec]] (who also produced ''[[MegaMan NT Warrior]]'' and ''[[Mega Man Star Force (TV series)|Mega Man Star Force]]'')<ref>{{Cite web |last=Funatsu |first=Minoru |date=12 February 2002 |title= |script-title=ja:「ロックマン エグゼ」遂にアニメ化 ゲーム"ロックマン"のファンを裏切らない作品にしたい |trans-title="Rockman.EXE" finally gets an anime adaptation! We want to create a work that will not betray the fans of the "Rockman" game. |url=https://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/20020214/capcom.htm |access-date=22 August 2022 |website=GameWatch |publisher=Impress Corporation |language=ja}}</ref><ref name="A">{{cite web |title= |script-title=ja:「流星のロックマン」スタッフ & キャスト |trans-title=''Shooting Star Rockman'' Staff & Cast |url=http://www.xebec-inc.co.jp/anime/ryusei/staff.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061119211313/http://www.xebec-inc.co.jp/anime/ryusei/staff.html |archive-date=19 November 2006 |access-date=22 August 2022 |publisher=[[Xebec]] |language=ja}}</ref> and later included in the ''Legacy Collection''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Legarie |first=Destin |date=24 July 2018 |title=Mega Man X Legacy Collection 1 Review |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2018/07/24/mega-man-x-legacy-collection-1-review |access-date=12 March 2022 |website=[[IGN]]}}</ref> Characters from the ''X'' series also appeared in the [[Mega Man (1994 TV series)|''Mega Man'' animated series]] in the episode "Mega X", which was a pitch at an ''X'' cartoon that never got off the ground.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |last=Bashir |first=Dale |date=20 December 2021 |title=Will The Two Most Iconic Versions of Mega Man Ever Team Up? |url=https://sea.ign.com/mega-man-1/180179/news/will-the-two-most-iconic-versions-of-mega-man-ever-team-up |access-date=22 August 2022 |website=[[IGN]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |year=2011 |title=Joe Ruby on the American Mega Man cartoon! |url=https://siphersaysstuff.tumblr.com/post/8519989554/joerubyinterview |access-date=22 August 2022 |website=Sipher Says Stuff |publisher=[[Tumblr]]}}</ref>

===Print media===

Several [[tie-in]] manga adaptations have been released, mainly serialized in [[Kodansha]]'s children's magazine ''[[Comic BomBom]]'', its quarterly special issues and its sister magazine ''Deluxe BomBom''. An adaptation of the first four games in the series by Yoshihiro Iwamoto ran from 1994 to 1998 and was collected into 12 volumes.<ref>{{Cite web |title= |script-title=ja:岩本佳浩 の足跡 |trans-title=Yoshihiro Iwamoto's Footprints |url=https://bombom.jp/writer/a003.html |access-date=22 August 2022 |website= |publisher=[[Comic BomBom]] |language=ja}}</ref> An original story featuring elements from the first ''Mega Man X'' game called ''Irregular Hunter Rockman X'' by Shigeto Ikehara ran from 1994<ref>[https://bombom.jp/data/dxbom/dx9407.html デラックスボンボン1994年7月号]</ref> to 1995 and was collected into two volumes. The magazine also published several one-shots, including one based on the ''Mega Mission'' [[carddass]] series by Hitoshi Ariga<ref>[https://bombom.jp/data/season/1995sum.html コミックボンボン 1995年夏の増刊号]</ref> and an original self-contained story called ''Team X Shutsujin seyo!!'' by Daisuke Inoue.<ref>[https://bombom.jp/data/season/1994win.html コミックボンボン 1994年冬の増刊号]</ref> Yoshihiro wrote an alternative ending to ''Mega Man X5'' in 2018.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://p-bandai.jp/item/item-1000126286|website=Bandai|accessdate=27 February 2023|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180728041527/https://p-bandai.jp/item/item-1000126286|archivedate=28 July 2018|title=ロックマンX 25周年記念 メモリアルカードダスエディション}}</ref>

The character of X appeared in the obscure Brazilian comic ''Novas Aventuras de Mega Man'' (translated as ''The New Adventures of Mega Man''), where he is Classic Mega Man and [[Roll (Mega Man)|Roll]]'s younger brother; the comic rather notoriously implies that all three characters are attracted to each other in a sexual manner.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Arteaga |first1=Juan |last2=Yezpitelok |first2=Maxwell |date=29 March 2013 |title=5 Iconic Characters Who Got Insane Reboots in Foreign Comics |url=https://www.cracked.com/article_20340_5-iconic-characters-who-got-insane-reboots-in-foreign-comics.html |access-date=12 March 2022 |website=[[Cracked.com|Cracked]] |publisher=Literally Media}}</ref> Similarly, the fourth and final issue of the [[Dreamwave Productions]] comic series included a short story with ''Mega Man X'' at the end of the issue, where X travels back in time to get help from Classic Mega Man and Dr. Light; the intention was to publish a comic based on ''Mega Man X'', however Dreamwave shut down before any issues were released.<ref>{{Cite web |last=CBR Staff |date=3 January 2005 |title=Dreamwave Productions Closes Up Shop |url=https://www.cbr.com/dreamwave-productions-closes-up-shop/ |access-date=12 March 2022 |website=[[Comic Book Resources]] |publisher=Valnet Inc.}}</ref>

Characters from ''Mega Man X'' appeared twice in the [[Mega Man (Archie Comics)|Archie Comics series]]; the first time was during the ''Dawn of X'' arc, and the second time was during the ''[[Sonic the Hedgehog]]'' crossover ''Sonic and Mega Man 2: Worlds Unite''.<ref name=":0" /> Writers noted that prior to his introduction, many fans sent them messages expressing a desire to see X portrayed as a darker character. They decided not to start with the ''Command Mission'' incarnation, which depicted X as more of a leader.<ref name="arhie">{{cite web|url=https://www.cbr.com/exclusive-archie-readies-the-debut-of-mega-man-x/|title=EXCLUSIVE: Archie Readies The Debut of "Mega Man X"|website=CBR|date=24 January 2014|access-date=1 June 2020|archive-date=26 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210126090156/https://www.cbr.com/exclusive-archie-readies-the-debut-of-mega-man-x/|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Crossovers===
X and Zero have appeared in other video games. In ''[[Dead Rising]]'', the protagonist, a photographer named [[Frank West (Dead Rising)|Frank West]] can unlock and wear an X outfit.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://es.ign.com/dead-rising-3-xbox-one/69991/news/mega-man-x-podra-desbloquearse-en-dead-rising-3|title=Mega Man X podrá desbloquearse en Dead Rising 3|website=IGN|date=14 November 2013|language=es|access-date=31 May 2020|archive-date=25 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230225023547/https://es.ign.com/dead-rising-3/69991/news/mega-man-x-podra-desbloquearse-en-dead-rising-3|url-status=live}}</ref> Zero also appears as a hidden character in ''[[Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars]]'' and as a playable character in ''[[Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds]]'', ''[[Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3]]'', ''[[Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite]]'', and ''[[Teppen]]''.<ref name="ZeroandJoe">{{cite web |last=Bozon |first=Mark |date=13 October 2009 |title=Character Unveil: Tatsunoko vs. Capcom |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2009/10/13/character-unveil-tatsunoko-vs-capcom?amp=1 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120530093125/http://wii.ign.com/articles/103/1034545p1.html |archive-date=30 May 2012 |access-date=13 October 2009 |publisher=IGN}}</ref><ref name="Ciolek2010">{{cite web |url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/the-x-button/2010-11-17 |title=The X Button Yet More Heroes |last=Ciolek |first=Todd |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |date=17 November 2010 |access-date=17 November 2010}}</ref> For ''[[Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite]]'', X was included due to his significant popularity with Western audiences alongside Zero.<ref name="infinite">{{cite web|url=https://www.siliconera.com/mega-man-xs-popularity-west-got-marvel-vs-capcom-infinites-first-trailer/|title=Mega Man X's Popularity In The West Got Him Into Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite's First Trailer|date=7 December 2016|access-date=30 May 2020|website=Siliconera|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806170931/https://www.siliconera.com/mega-man-xs-popularity-west-got-marvel-vs-capcom-infinites-first-trailer/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.siliconera.com/marvel-vs-capcom-infinite-debuts-september-19-2017/|title=Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite Debuts On September 19, 2017|date=25 April 2017|access-date=1 June 2020|website=Siliconera|archive-date=6 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806020844/https://www.siliconera.com/marvel-vs-capcom-infinite-debuts-september-19-2017/|url-status=live}}</ref> They also appeared in the two role-playing games ''[[Project X Zone]]'' and ''[[Project X Zone 2]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.siliconera.com/practice-that-100-hit-combo-with-project-x-zones-training-mode/|title=Practice That 100 Hit Combo With Project X Zone's Training Mode|website=Siliconera|date=26 September 2012|access-date=31 May 2020|archive-date=4 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204194700/https://www.siliconera.com/practice-that-100-hit-combo-with-project-x-zones-training-mode/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.kotaku.co.uk/2015/11/20/the-56-playable-characters-in-project-x-zone-2|title=The 56 Playable Characters in Project X Zone 2|website=Kotaku|access-date=31 May 2020|archive-date=7 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200907213931/https://www.kotaku.co.uk/2015/11/20/the-56-playable-characters-in-project-x-zone-2|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Reception==
{{VG Series Reviews
|gr = yes
|game1 = [[Mega Man X (video game)|Mega Man X]]
|gr1 = 89%<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamerankings.com/snes/588479-mega-man-x/index.html |title=Mega Man X for Super Nintendo |work=[[GameRankings]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |access-date=11 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140202101057/http://www.gamerankings.com/snes/588479-mega-man-x/index.html |archive-date=2 February 2014 |url-status=dead  }}</ref>
|game2 = [[Mega Man X2]]
|gr2 = 82%<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamerankings.com/snes/588480-mega-man-x2/index.html|title=Mega Man X2 for Super Nintendo |work=[[GameRankings]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190503120738/https://www.gamerankings.com/snes/588480-mega-man-x2/index.html|archive-date=3 May 2019}}</ref>
|game3 = [[Mega Man X3]]
|gr3 = 71%<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamerankings.com/snes/588481-mega-man-x3/index.html|title= Mega Man X3 for Super Nintendo|work=[[GameRankings]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190503114645/https://www.gamerankings.com/snes/588481-mega-man-x3/index.html|archive-date= 3 May 2019}}</ref>
|game4 = [[Mega Man X4]]
|gr4 = 75% (SSAT)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamerankings.com/saturn/197899-mega-man-x4/index.html|title=Mega Man X4 for Saturn |website=[[GameRankings]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |accessdate=16 October 2023 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20191209011659/https://www.gamerankings.com/saturn/197899-mega-man-x4/index.html |archivedate=9 December 2019 |url-status=dead }}</ref><br />74% (PS)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamerankings.com/ps/197898-mega-man-x4/ |title=Mega Man X4 for PlayStation |work=[[GameRankings]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |accessdate=16 October 2023 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20191209011659/https://www.gamerankings.com/ps/197898-mega-man-x4/ |archivedate=9 December 2019 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
|game5 = [[Mega Man X5]]
|mc5 = 76/100<ref>{{cite web | title=Mega Man X5 for PlayStation | url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/mega-man-x5/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation | website=[[Metacritic]] | accessdate=16 December 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111127035112/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation/mega-man-x5 | archive-date=27 November 2011 | url-status=live | df=mdy-all }}</ref>
|game6=[[Mega Man X6]]
|mc6 = 65/100<ref>{{cite web | title=Mega Man X6 Critic Reviews for PlayStation | url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/mega-man-x6/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation | website=[[Metacritic]] | access-date=6 February 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120429115827/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation/mega-man-x6/critic-reviews | archive-date=29 April 2012 | url-status=live }}</ref>
|game7=[[Mega Man X7]]
|mc7 = 58/100<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/mega-man-x7/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-2|title=Mega Man X7 Critic Reviews for PlayStation 2|website=[[Metacritic]]|access-date=6 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140317133403/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-2/mega-man-x7/critic-reviews|archive-date=17 March 2014|url-status=live}}</ref>
|game8=[[Mega Man X: Command Mission]]
|mc8 =67/100 (GCN)<ref name="mccube">{{cite web | title=''Mega Man X: Command Mission'' for GameCube Reviews | url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/mega-man-x-command-mission/critic-reviews/?platform=gamecube | work=[[Metacritic]] | publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] | access-date=26 September 2011 | archive-date=17 December 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191217140227/https://www.metacritic.com/game/gamecube/mega-man-x-command-mission | url-status=live }}</ref><br />69/100 (PS2)<ref name="mcps2">{{cite web | title=''Mega Man X: Command Mission'' for PlayStation 2 Reviews | url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/mega-man-x-command-mission/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-2 | work=[[Metacritic]] | publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] | access-date=26 September 2011 | archive-date=29 February 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200229215728/https://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-2/mega-man-x-command-mission | url-status=live }}</ref>
|game9=[[Mega Man X8]]
|mc9 =68/100<ref>{{cite web|title=Mega Man X8 Critic Reviews for PlayStation 2|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/mega-man-x8/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-2|publisher=[[Metacritic]]|accessdate=6 February 2013|archive-date=5 June 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130605173819/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-2/mega-man-x8/critic-reviews|url-status=live}}</ref>
|game10 = [[Mega Man Maverick Hunter X]]
|mc10 = 79/100<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/mega-man-maverick-hunter-x/critic-reviews/?platform=psp |title=Mega Man Maverick Hunter X for PSP Reviews |work=[[Metacritic]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |access-date=25 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180727235113/http://www.metacritic.com/game/psp/mega-man-maverick-hunter-x |archive-date=27 July 2018 |url-status=live  }}</ref>
|gr10 =82%<ref>{{Cite web|title=Mega Man: Maverick Hunter X for PSP|url=http://www.gamerankings.com/psp/929705-mega-man-maverick-hunter-x/index.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110119211813/http://www.gamerankings.com/psp/929705-mega-man-maverick-hunter-x/index.html|archive-date=19 January 2011|access-date=5 April 2021|website=[[GameRankings]]}}</ref>
}}
Several websites retrospectively held ''Mega Man X'' as a successful milestone in transitioning the ''Mega Man'' series from its increasingly stale existence on the NES to the SNES.<ref name="gamespot">{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/features/6076983/p-12.html |title=The History of ''Mega Man'' |author1=Nutt, Christian |author2=Speer, Justin |date=6 November 2003 |work=[[GameSpot]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091212164327/http://www.gamespot.com/features/6076983/p-12.html|archive-date=12 December 2009|url-status=live|access-date=26 December 2010|name-list-style=amp}}</ref><ref name="gamesradar">{{cite web |author=Elston, Brett |date=30 June 2008 |title=The ultimate ''Mega Man'' retrospective |url=http://www.gamesradar.com/f/the-ultimate-mega-man-retrospective/a-2008062794557758069/p-7 |work=[[GamesRadar]] |publisher=[[Future plc]] |access-date=26 December 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110615192936/http://www.gamesradar.com/f/the-ultimate-mega-man-retrospective/a-2008062794557758069/p-7 |archive-date=15 June 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="ignrev"/><ref>{{cite web |author=Parish, Jeremy |date=10 May 2007 |title=The ''Mega Man'' Series Roundup |url=http://www.1up.com/features/mega-man-series-roundup?pager.offset=1 |work=[[1UP.com]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |access-date=10 April 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105203414/http://www.1up.com/features/mega-man-series-roundup?pager.offset=1 |archive-date=5 November 2012}}</ref> IGN named it the twelfth-best on its own top 100 SNES games list in 2011.<ref>{{cite web |author=George, Richard |year=2011 |title=Top 100 Super Nintendo (SNES) Video Games |url=http://www.ign.com/top/snes-games/12 |website=IGN |access-date=27 August 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111102032033/http://www.ign.com/top/snes-games/12 |archive-date=2 November 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The sequel ''Mega Man X2'' was often praised for providing the player with new content [[GameSpot]] editors Christian Nutt and Justin Speer were appreciative of Capcom's attempt at expanding ''Mega Man X2'' over its predecessor in all aspects.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Knight|first=Rich|date=30 April 2018|title=The Best Super Nintendo Games of All Time|url=https://www.complex.com/pop-culture/the-100-best-super-nintendo-games/|access-date=1 February 2022|website=Complex|language=en}}</ref> By the release of ''Mega Man X4'', critics praised the added option to play through the game as either X or Zero, noting that the drastic differences in the way the characters played the same levels added to the game's replay value.<ref name=egmPS>{{cite magazine |title=Review Crew: Mega Man X4 |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]|issue=100|publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |date=November 1997|page=196}}</ref><ref name=egmSat>{{cite magazine|author=''Electronic Gaming Monthly'' staff |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |title=Review Crew: Mega Man X4 |date=December 1997 |issue=101 |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |page=205 |url=http://egm.gamespot.com/egm.nsf/WebAllReviewCrew/9B05158E13E02B168825653F0080B97F |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19980121101017/http://egm.gamespot.com/egm.nsf/WebAllReviewCrew/9B05158E13E02B168825653F0080B97F |archive-date=21 January 1998 |issn=1058-918X |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=GProPS>{{cite magazine |author=Major Mike |title=PlayStation ProReview: Mega Man X4|magazine=[[GamePro]] |issue=110 |publisher=[[International Data Group|IDG]] |date=November 1997|page=142}}</ref> The English voice acting was still criticized for poor performances.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.destructoid.com/learn-why-the-voice-acting-from-mega-man-8-and-x4-was-so-bad-272168.phtml|publisher=Destructoid|title=Learn why the voice acting from Mega Man 8 and X4 was so bad|date=19 March 2014|access-date=1 January 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/2018/07/24/the-pros-and-cons-of-the-mega-man-x-collections |title=The Pros And Cons Of The Mega Man X Collections |last=Hilliard |first=Kyle |magazine=Game Informer |access-date=30 May 2020 |archive-date=13 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200813141413/https://www.gameinformer.com/2018/07/24/the-pros-and-cons-of-the-mega-man-x-collections/ |url-status=live}}</ref> ''Mega Man X5'' was generally well-received as an appealing sidescroller, although several sites commented that it did not contribute new major ideas to the franchise.<ref name="ignrev">{{cite web |author=Zdyrko, David |date=2 February 2001 |title=Mega Man X5 - PlayStation Review |url=http://psx.ign.com/articles/164/164873p1.html |website=IGN |access-date=24 June 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101215151659/http://psx.ign.com/articles/164/164873p1.html |archive-date=15 December 2010 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="gspotrev">{{cite web |author=Lopez, Miguel |date=8 February 2001 |title=Mega Man X5 Review for PlayStation |url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps/action/megamanx5/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=gssummary&tag=summary%3Bread-review | website=[[GameSpot]] |access-date=24 June 2010}}</ref><ref name="egm">{{cite magazine |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |title=Review Crew: Mega Man X5 |date=February 2001 |issue=139 |url=http://www.zdnet.com/egm/stories/main/0,11589,2668360,00.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010211032318/http://www.zdnet.com/egm/stories/main/0%2C11589%2C2668360%2C00.html |archive-date=11 February 2001 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The next two games have been criticized for a harsh difficulty caused by poor design,<ref>{{cite web |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050312052715/http://www.gaming-age.com/cgi-bin/reviews/review.pl?sys=psx&game=mmx6 |url=http://www.gaming-age.com/cgi-bin/reviews/review.pl?sys=psx&game=mmx6|title=Mega Man X6|website=Gaming Age |access-date=7 April 2023 |archive-date=12 March 2005}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=Zdyrko, David |date=2 January 2002 |title=Mega Man X6 - PlayStation Review |url=http://psx.ign.com/articles/167/167256p1.html |website=IGN |access-date=24 June 2010 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110606125442/http://psx.ign.com/articles/167/167256p1.html |archive-date=6 June 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref> as well as a recycled narrative.<ref>{{cite web |author=Johnny Liu |date=1 January 2002 |title=Mega Man X6 Review for the PS |url=http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/sony/mega-man-x6 |publisher=[[Game Revolution]] |access-date=5 July 2010 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120903153315/http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/sony/mega-man-x6 |archive-date=3 September 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.destructoid.com/weekly-kusoge-mega-man-x6-ps1-capcom/ |website=Destructoid|title=Mega Man X6 is a great measurement of how far it is to fall from the top |date=10 January 2022 |access-date=7 April 2023}}</ref> With the transition to 3D graphics, the general consensus was that the game's mixture of 2D and 3D gameplay was well-intentioned but poorly executed.<ref>{{cite web |author=Davis, Ryan |date=13 October 2003 |title=Mega Man X7 Review for PlayStation 2 |url=http://www.gamespot.com/mega-man-x7/reviews/mega-man-x7-review-6076759/ |website=[[GameSpot]] |access-date=24 June 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120225060824/http://www.gamespot.com/mega-man-x7/reviews/mega-man-x7-review-6076759/ |archive-date=25 February 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=Dunham, Jeremy |date=14 October 2003 |title=Mega Man X7 - PlayStation 2 Review |url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/454/454630p1.html |website=IGN |access-date=24 June 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100904073806/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/454/454630p1.html |archive-date=4 September 2010 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=Nutt, Christian |date=14 October 2003 |title=Mega Man X7 |url=http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/mega-man-x7/6255p1.html |publisher=GameSpy |access-date=24 June 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100401171850/http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/mega-man-x7/6255p1.html |archive-date=1 April 2010 |url-status=live }}</ref> The latest game, ''Mega Man X8'', was generally praised for returning to a more classic style of Mega Man gameplay and removing the criticized gameplay elements of ''Mega Man X7'', making it a much more appealing game than its previous two predecessors.<ref>{{cite web |author=Theobald, Phil |date=6 December 2004 |title=Reviews: Mega Man X8 |url=http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/mega-man-x8/571187p1.html |publisher=[[GameSpy]] |access-date=23 June 2010 |archive-date=7 September 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090907091438/http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/mega-man-x8/571187p1.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3137040&did=1 |website=1UP.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050113153237/http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3137040&did=1 |title=Mega Man X8 |archive-date=13 January 2005 |access-date=8 April 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |date=January 2005 |title=Reviews: Mega Man X8 |issue=187 |page=134|url=https://archive.org/details/electronic-gaming-monthly-issue-187-january-2005/page/134/mode/2up?q=%22Mega+man%22}}</ref>

''Mega Man X'' was a commercial success. The SNES version sold 1.165 million copies worldwide {{as of|2001|lc=y}},<ref name="Capcom2001">{{cite book |chapter=Million titles |title=Company Profile |chapter-url=https://www.capcom.co.jp/ir/data/pdf/fy2001b.pdf#page=7 |publisher=[[Capcom]] |date=May 2001 |page=7 |access-date=5 November 2021}}</ref>

IGN's Jeremy Dunham speculated that the game's more mature storyline and its inclusion of numerous gameplay extensions over the original ''Mega Man'' series helped create a "unique cadre of fans".<ref>{{cite web |author=Dunham, Jeremy |date=5 January 2006 |title=''Mega Man X Collection'' - PlayStation 2 Review |url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/678/678927p1.html |website=IGN |access-date=15 January 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100107105409/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/678/678927p1.html |archive-date=7 January 2010 |url-status=live }}</ref> The story is notable for being more violent than the predecessors with stages and bosses also looking scarier<ref>{{cite web |url=https://es.ign.com/mega-man-maverick-hunter-x/96522/feature/el-hit-de-ayer-mega-man-x |title=El hit de ayer: Mega Man X |website=IGN |date=22 September 2015 |language=Spanish |access-date=14 March 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.usgamer.net/articles/super-nes-classic-reviews-game-by-game-11-mega-man-x |title=Super NES Retro Review: Mega Man X |website=US Gamer |date=10 August 2017 |access-date=30 May 2020 |archive-date=20 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201020000052/https://www.usgamer.net/articles/super-nes-classic-reviews-game-by-game-11-mega-man-x |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/the-ultimate-mega-man-retrospective/7/?page=7 |title=The ultimate Mega Man retrospective |date=30 June 2008 |website=GamesRadar |access-date=30 May 2020 |archive-date=25 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230225023557/https://www.gamesradar.com/the-ultimate-mega-man-retrospective/7/?page=7 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="nintendolife">{{cite web |url=http://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/switch-eshop/mega_man_x_legacy_collection |title=Mega Man X Legacy Collection Review |date=24 July 2018 |website=Nintendo Life |access-date=30 May 2020 |archive-date=27 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200627080128/http://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/switch-eshop/mega_man_x_legacy_collection |url-status=live}}</ref> Capcom producer Kazuhiro Tsuchiya played the first ''Mega Man X'' in his youth, enjoying the successor to the first Mega Man character, X, due to he having new unique skills, helping to popularize the "golden age of action games".<ref name="pplife">{{cite web|url=https://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2018/05/25/mega-man-x-legacy-collection-famitsu-interview-kazuhiro-tsuchiya/|title=Mega Man X Legacy Collection Famitsu Interview: Kazuhiro Tsuchiya Explains the Game Features|website=PlayStation LifeStyle|date=25 May 2018 |access-date=10 October 2023}}</ref> X's characterization was often praised for coming across as a unique tragic hero similar to [[Hayao Miyazaki]]'s works as well as dystopian works in general, compared to ''[[Ghost in the Shell]]'', ''[[Casshan]]'',<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=MzEmDwAAQBAJ&dq=mega+man+x+character&pg=PA117 |title=100 Greatest Video Game Franchises |publisher=Rowman & Littlefield Publishers |isbn=9781442278158 |year=2017}}</ref> as well as other famous gaming icons like [[2B (Nier: Automata)|2B]] from ''[[Nier Automata]]'', and [[Raiden (Metal Gear)|Raiden]] from ''[[Metal Gear]]'', who question the nature of his missions. Alexander expressed feeling guilty upon completing the game as the final narration highlighted X's depression over the chaos of war.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Alexander |first=Heather |title=The Brutal Lessons Gaming Taught Me About Revolutions, Robots, And War |url=https://kotaku.com/the-brutal-lessons-gaming-taught-me-about-revolutions-1841522139 |access-date=19 October 2020 |website=Kotaku |date=22 July 2019 |language=en-us}}</ref> His popularity led to criticism in ''Mega Man X7'' for being the first and only time to have him unlockable and the player having to use his replacement Axl instead.<ref>{{cite web |first=Nadia |last=Oxford |date=30 September 1997 |title=Mega Mediocricity |url=http://www.1up.com/features/mega-mediocrity |publisher=[[1UP.com]] |access-date=30 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130921060011/http://www.1up.com/features/mega-mediocrity |archive-date=21 September 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="Gamespy review">{{cite web |last=Nutt |first=Christian |date=14 October 2003 |title=Mega Man X7 |url=http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/mega-man-x7/6255p1.html |publisher=GameSpy |access-date=24 June 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100401171850/http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/mega-man-x7/6255p1.html |archive-date=1 April 2010 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="vgrev">{{cite web |url=https://www.vg247.com/mega-man-x-legacy-collection-12-review |website=VG247 |access-date=21 March 2023 |title=Mega Man X Legacy Collection 1+2 Review|date=24 July 2018}}</ref> 

Meanwhile, Zero stood out mainly in his debut as playable character due to having own iconic techniques.<ref name="Parish2006">{{cite web |url=http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3146893&did=1 |author=Parish, Jeremy |work=[[1UP.com]] |publisher=[[UGO Networks]] |access-date=13 September 2009 |date=10 January 2006 |title=Mega Man X Collection Review |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100105220716/http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3146893&did=1 |archive-date=5 January 2010}}</ref> Additionally, Brett Elston from [[GamesRadar]] credited Zero as one of the reasons the ''X'' series became so popular and that his own popularity within gamers earned him his own video game series.<ref name="Elston">{{cite web|author=Elston, Brett|date=30 June 2008|title=The ultimate Mega Man retrospective |url=http://www.gamesradar.com/f/the-ultimate-mega-man-retrospective/a-2008062794557758069/p-7|access-date=31 March 2010 |publisher=GamesRadar}}</ref> When compared with Zero, X was often seen as the less compelling character, with Zero being the more memorable of the two.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.siliconera.com/why-zero-is-cooler-than-mega-man-x-and-how-mega-man-2-was-made/ |website=Siliconera |access-date=15 March 2023 |title=Why Zero is Cooler than Mega Man X and how Mega Man 2 Was Made|date=September 2013}}</ref><ref name="usgamer.net">{{cite web |url=https://www.usgamer.net/articles/the-most-interesting-mega-man-character-is-a-reploid-who-fell-in-love-with-a-human |title=The Most Interesting Mega Man Character is a Reploid Who Fell in Love with a Human |website=US Gamer |date=26 February 2020 |access-date=30 May 2020 |archive-date=30 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200530050251/https://www.usgamer.net/articles/the-most-interesting-mega-man-character-is-a-reploid-who-fell-in-love-with-a-human |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Schedeen2009">{{cite web |title=Player's Wanted: Marvel vs. Capcom 3 |publisher=[[IGN|IGN Entertainment]] |work=[[IGN]] |access-date=13 September 2009 |page=1 |url=http://stars.ign.com/articles/975/975223p1.html |author=Schedeen, Jesse |date=20 April 2009}}</ref> The villain Sigma Sigma was praised for his backstory, resulting in the story of ''Mega Man X'' having unclear morality.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Tieryas|first=Peter|title=The Brutal Lessons Gaming Taught Me About Revolutions, Robots, And War|url=https://kotaku.com/the-brutal-lessons-gaming-taught-me-about-revolutions-1841522139|access-date=19 October 2020|website=Kotaku|date=8 February 2020 |language=en-us}}</ref> Patrick Lee of [[The A.V. Club]], however, stated that Sigma is "exactly the sort of [[boogeyman]] anti-progress allegories are built around". Saying that he is the "first piece of technology the ''Mega Man'' series suggests was a mistake to create", he says that Sigma runs contrary to the previous, optimistic themes of the series, which suggest that technology is ultimately beneficial to mankind, and that robots are "morally neutral tools".<ref name=":1">{{cite web |last=Lee |first=Patrick |title=Playing God: The ever-changing morals of Mega Man's sci-fi allegory |url=https://www.avclub.com/playing-god-the-ever-changing-morals-of-mega-man-s-sci-1798249566 |website=The A.V. Club |date=20 July 2016 |language=en-us |access-date=19 October 2020}}</ref> He described this "more cynical worldview" as "anti-technology scaremongering."<ref name=":1" />

==Notes==
{{notelist}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{Mega Man X}}
{{Mega Man series}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Mega Man X Series}}
[[Category:Mega Man X| ]]
[[Category:Capcom franchises]]
[[Category:Science fiction video games]]
[[Category:Side-scrolling platformers]]
[[Category:Video game franchises]]
[[Category:Video game franchises introduced in 1993]]