A refreshing take on a classic formula, Maverick Hunter X is the perfect example of a console port done with care.
Based on Mega Man X for the Super Nintendo, Maverick Hunter retains the challenging gameplay and amazing level design that made the original a classic. Fans of the Super Nintendo version remember the X series as a more refined effort than its NES predecessors. Featuring the same mechanic as the original Mega Man, X tasked players with defeating bosses to usurp their weapons for use against other enemies. Unlike the original Nintendo games, however, Mega Man X boasted a darker theme, deeper music, and tighter controls. Thirteen years later, Maverick Hunter X remains faithful to these roots while adding just enough extra content to keep both new and veteran fans interested.
After an introductory level, players reach a selection screen where they can choose any of the game’s first eight stages. Defeating a boss allows Mega Man to steal his weapon, which, in turn, can be used more effectively on a different enemy. Part of the game’s challenge involves a trial and error process to figure out which weapon works best against which enemy. Initially armed with only a generic blaster, X must defeat these eight bosses, collect various armor upgrades and weapons, and ultimately destroy Sigma, leader of the Maverick renegades.
Although the gameplay in Maverick Hunter remains largely untarnished, there are a few changes thrown in to shake things up. Players must still find four upgrade capsules left behind by Dr. Light, X’s creator, but their locations have been switched around. While this doesn’t make the game any more difficult, it may trip up the Mega Man veterans who think they can breeze through the levels fairly quickly. Bosses have received some minor upgrades as well, which add both challenge and aesthetics to the platformer. Flame Mammoth, for example, is now a beautifully rendered behemoth who can easily crush Mega Man if the player gets caught up watching the animations.
In addition to these minor gameplay tweaks, every aspect of Mega Man X has been vastly improved upon for its PSP port. Full 3D rendering brings this game up to date with its PS2 brethren, and wonderfully animated cutscenes provide a great avenue for storytelling. Fans of the original may need a few moments to adjust to controlling Mega Man in a three-dimensional environment, but they will be pleasantly surprised by the advantages that the system’s wider screen brings to a horizontal platformer. From minor enhancements of weapons and menus to major boss and level renovations, Maverick Hunter looks amazing on the portable screen. Unfortunately, fans of the original Super Nintendo title will also be familiar with the series’ infamous lag when too many enemies are on the screen. The slowdown doesn’t happen often, and it’s by no means a deal breaker, but it can be frustrating when precision jumps are your key to survival.
The game’s audio has also received an overhaul with a remixed soundtrack and voice-acting. You’ll still be able to recognize your favorite tracks, but, unfortunately, you won’t be able to hear them in their original forms. While some fans of the Super Nintendo version may not appreciate the remixed tracks, newcomers will vouch for their contribution to the tense gameplay. Voice acting is done surprisingly well, if not slightly over the top. It also adds some much-needed character to the game’s bosses, especially during the heated final battles.
Although Maverick Hunter is a competent platformer, it is a bit on the short side; your first time through will clock in at just a few hours. Fortunately, beating the game unlocks Vile, X’s nemesis, as a playable character. Complete with his own unique weapons set, upgrades, and backstory, Vile adds both challenge and longevity to Maverick Hunter. Upon finishing the game, you’ll also be treated to a lengthy anime video that explores Mega Man’s relationships with his fellow hunters and suggests motives for Sigma’s betrayal.
On a system that has quickly become a dumping ground for console ports, Maverick Hunter X is a refreshing departure for the PSP. Sure, it’s still another port of an old formula. But it’s also the textbook example of what developers can do when they’re creative and dedicated enough to a franchise. Whether you’re a classic Mega Man veteran jaded by the recent inundation of sub-par sequels, or you simply fancy yourself a platformer fanatic, Maverick Hunter is worth the price of admission.