Megaman 9 – Tougher Than You Think

Remember playing Megaman 2 on the NES when the Mega Buster and dash didn’t exist? This game does exactly that. It goes back to it’s roots and brings us a videogame that was tough. There are differences here too. First thing you’ll notice is a new pick-up item, the screw, which you can use to make game item purchases. The other thing you’ll notice is that the E-Tank and P-Tank’s are also present in this game (an item from later on in the series). Other then that it’s the same game we’ve grown to know and love.

As always, the story starts with something happening to someone and Dr. Wiley is responsible. Then you face off against 8 different mega robots until you face the main enemy, Dr. Wiley, in his secret mega lair (if you played Megaman 4 you’ll recognize the base image and the projected course to follow). Your trusty dog, Rush, is also present and there to help.

Besides the graphics and the gameplay being preserved from it’s beginnings the other thing you’ll notice is the “cutscenes” and the music is also retro. You can even purchase the 8-bit soundtrack if you dig the music. They event contracted someone to produce a cover image that reflects those used in the earlier games.

There are, however, new items too. You can play the game in it’s regular glory or you can try out some other game modes like speed mode, where you try to complete the level as fast as you can. They’ve also introduced 50 in-game achievements (not trophies for the Playstation unfortunately).

This game is only available for the 3 consoles and is only available as a digital download. For $9.99 (on the PSN) it’s totally worth it. I have it and give it a whirl whenever I feel nostalgic (that and the PS1 Classics) If you are unsure, download the demo to play the first stage (I think it was Galaxy Man’s stage). Just remember this game is tough.

Today’s kids don’t know tough like us seasoned gamers, eh?