Classic Gaming Bliss: A Review of Mega Man (1987) for NES

Region USA 

Players 1 

Year 1987 

Cart size 128 KB 

Publisher Capcom 

Serial # NES-MN-USA 

Graphics 8.75 

Sound 9.04 

Gameplay 8.75 

Overall 8.87

"Mega Man," released in 1987 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), is a classic video game that has stood the test of time. Developed by Capcom, this game introduced players to the blue robotic hero known as Mega Man (or Rockman in Japan), who must defeat the evil Dr. Wily and his army of robot masters.

One of the standout features of "Mega Man" is its unique gameplay mechanics. Unlike traditional platformers of the time, "Mega Man" allows players to choose the order in which they tackle the game's levels. Each level is themed after a different robot master, and defeating a robot master grants Mega Man their special weapon, which can be used to exploit the weaknesses of other bosses. This non-linear approach to level progression was innovative and added a layer of strategy to the game.

Another aspect that sets "Mega Man" apart is its challenging gameplay. The levels are well-designed, with tight controls and precise platforming challenges. Each robot master has unique attack patterns, requiring players to learn their strategies and adapt to defeat them. While the game can be difficult, the sense of accomplishment upon defeating a tough boss is incredibly rewarding.

Visually, "Mega Man" is impressive for its time. The game features colorful graphics and detailed character sprites, bringing the world of Mega Man to life. The music is also memorable, with catchy tunes that complement the action on screen.

Overall, "Mega Man" is a classic NES game that remains enjoyable to this day. Its innovative gameplay, challenging levels, and charming presentation make it a standout title in the platforming genre. Whether you're a fan of retro games or just looking for a fun and challenging experience, "Mega Man" is definitely worth checking out.

Cheat Codes:

Invincibility: Enter the code A, Right, A, A, Left, A, A, Right at the title screen. You should hear a sound confirming the code was entered correctly. Mega Man will now be invincible to enemy attacks and environmental hazards.

10 Lives: Start a new game and hold Right on the D-pad while pressing A to select your character. Keep holding Right until the stage begins. Mega Man will now start with 10 lives instead of the usual 3.

Level Select: At the title screen, hold Down/Left on the D-pad and press Start. You should hear a sound confirming the code was entered correctly. Now, when you start a new game, you'll be able to select any level to begin with.

Please note that using cheat codes can diminish the challenge and enjoyment of the game. It's often more rewarding to play through the game without cheats, but they can be fun to experiment with once you've beaten it legitimately.