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By Anthony Swinnich on June 16th, 2007
When people discuss their favorite Mega Man games, the original is rarely mentioned. Sure, it set the tone for the series, established an iconic character, and influenced a generation, but it was also extremely difficult. It’s always held a special place in my heart, and it’s exciting to see Capcom has updated a true classic for a new generation with Mega Man Powered Up — a complete re-imagining of the game. With a fresh look and tons of bonus content, this is the best Mega Man to have come out in years.
"... this is the best Mega Man to have come out in years."
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As the game starts, you have access to two modes: classic and rearranged. The classic mode is exactly what it sounds like — it’s the original game, but with the new 3D graphics. All of the enemies have their regular weaknesses, and the stages have their original layouts. The difficulty level remains intact despite the candy graphics, so any n00bs younger players who may have not played this game before are in for a rude awakening.
For anybody not interested in smashing their PSP into smithereens, the rearranged or "Powered Up" mode makes you want to crack your screen when played on normal. With three difficulty settings (Easy, Normal and duh Expert), it’s the most user friendly of the two modes. The added sections in the stages are well designed and a fair amount longer than the original versions. One of two minor complaints is the sound — the voice acting is borderline retarded and the remixed music is way too happy (Original Mode has the original tracks — score!). The other is the added characters. It’s clear that this series is out of ideas for enemies, and now we have Oil Man and Time Man to further drive the point home. Neither enemy provides an interesting fight or a particularly useful power after defeating them.
"Shocking unlockable: Protoman as a playable character"
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The game doesn’t stray too far from its roots in terms of plot and setting, but the bonus content will draw interest from even the most hardened of Mega Man veterans. Everyone knows that Mega Man bosses are weak against certain weapons, but players who use only their Mega Buster to fight them will be rewarded — every time a boss is defeated that way they’re unlocked as a playable character. Also, players can download Mega Man’s sister Roll as a playable character with plenty of selectable outfits. Each of these characters (aside from Roll) also comes with ten challenge levels each with various objectives. Completing these challenges (and a glorified boss rush mode) will unlock a special brand new prize sure to bring a tear to the eye of fans: Protoman as a playable character. This doesn’t even cover the extensive level editor and ability to upload your creations to Capcom’s servers for everyone to download and play. Needless to say, there’s a lot of game on this UMD.
There isn’t a company that does straight-up remakes like Capcom, and Mega Man Powered Up does even more to solidify that reputation. Anybody who missed out on the second son of Light’s first adventure should give this disc a spin — it’s a journey worth taking. | 
