I just recently completed Mega Man 4 for the NES, and I have to say… by far… One of the lower rungs in the series. Don’t get me wrong… I love me some Mega Man, especially on the NES, but most of the stages were one-trick ponies. Unlike the level design in Mega Man 2, or especially 3, the stages in 4 were average… even in difficulty. Capcom isn’t known for making pussy games, which is why I’m disappointed in this one… While not the easiest game, not by far, it isn’t quite up to that “Blue Bomber” status we all know and hate. Each stage has one or two difficult parts, but after that, it’s easy riding.
What makes up for this lack of creativity in the level design is the introduction of a staple Mega Man ability: The Charge Shot. The birth of the charge shot meant the end of blistered thumbs for Mega Man gamers. No longer did you need to jam the B button or grab your NES Advantage, you could just charge the shot, and be ready, next time something crossed your path.
While Mega Man 4 did some great things for the series, I still feel that 3 was the peak. If one thing is consistent throughout the franchise: It’s the music. Still amazingly enjoyable, even after all these years. Enough of me blabbing… get to playing!
