The Mega Man Zero series is one of the high points of the Mega Man franchise. Its pristine storytelling elements and fine-tuned gameplay make it a refreshing title. In 2003, Capcom released its second act, Mega Man Zero 2. This game feels almost identical to its predecessor, like combat, music, and overall stage design. However, the game offers minor differences and improvements. Let’s cut into Zero 2 and see what makes this hack-and-slash game praise-worthy.
New Combat Additions
Zero 2‘s combat system is similar to the first game in many ways. Zero retains his Z-Saber as a weapon, hacking and slashing his way through the Pantheons. Zero also has his Buster Shot, a firearm that supplants his earlier Z-Buster in the Mega Man X series. The Shield Boomerang is another gimmick from the original Zero retained in its sequel. However, the Triple Rod is not as lucky. Chain Rod replaces it, a complex weapon that creates a bladed whip. Zero 2’s gameplay offers a familiar setting for players, keeping them acclimated to the game’s combat.
Zero is unique compared to the X and Classic series. Instead of taking weapons, Zero used techniques based on the enemies. Mega Man Zero 2 introduced EX Skills as a natural evolution of this idea. Netting a Rank A or a Rank S gives players access to an EX Skill. The EX Skills are modifiers, enhancing specific weapon abilities with the boss’s weapon properties. This game also introduces the Form System. Via completing mission tasks, Zero can take on different forms. These forms alter Zero’s basic stats, giving him certain advantages in combat.
Elpizo: The Unlikely Antagonist
Mega Man Zero 2 is a year after the first game’s events. Copy X is gone, yet the conflict between the Resistance and Neo Arcadia’s forces continues. Zero is left to his own devices, having deserted The Resistance after destroying Copy X. The opening stage sets the scene for Zero’s exhaustion and eminent return to The Resistance. Rescued by Sage Harpuia, Zero is reintroduced to The Resistance and their new leader, Elpizo.
Elpizo is the main antagonist of the game but he does not start evil. He is the ambitious commander of The Resistance, elected by Ciel. Elpizo attacks Neo Arcadia, but he is the only survivor. The event leaves him traumatized, developing feelings of self-inadequacy. As a result, Elpizo goes mad and pursues the Dark Elf’s power to become stronger. Elpizo’s heroic attitude is ultimately overwhelmed by his narcissism, dreams of grandeur, and ruthless determination. By the end of the game, Elpizo is purified and transformed into a Cyber Elf.
A Deeper Push into X’s story
Mega Man Zero is a dream come true compared to the Classic games and the X series. The Classic Mega Man games are simple at their core but formulaic. Their stories rely on the same narrative hinges and plot beats to continue. The X series games are good but more open to criticism. Mega Man X6 and Mega Man X7 were both unpopular upon release. Both Mega Man series are good examples of long-running titles that tried with each new title. Both series are good examples of titles that waver as time goes on.
The Zero series rectified this by ending its story in just four games. Mega Man Zero 2, in particular, teases the next game and the title after that. Zero 2 introduces the name Weil, attached to one of the franchise’s darkest villains. It also teases Omega, a figure with an unknown relation to Zero. Zero’s sequel already sets up satisfying threads to fascinate video game players.
Zero 2’s Still Got It
Zero 2 maintains the aspects that make Mega Man Zero a good game. Zero’s gameplay and combat feel fun to run through. The addition of EX Skills promotes player productivity, incentivizing stage practice. Like any Mega Man game, the music is fitting and enhances the atmosphere.
The Zero series is notorious for its difficulty, so it can easily scare off newcomers. However, the Zero games are also the swan song for Keiji Inafune’s original concept, Zero. Zero 2 is part of that experience and sets the stage for future stories in that universe. If you are a hack-and-slash fan or just looking to rock with Zero, Mega Man Zero 2 might be for you.
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