Mega Man X2 does exactly what the original does, just a lot better.
Lows: Capcom didn't use the Cx4 chip to it's fullest potential, which is a shame, X-buster is somewhat overpowered, making the game a little bit easier, alternate ending isn't worth the effort.
Verdict: X2 is just as good if not better than the original.
After the release of Mega Man X began a new Mega Man series a year ago, how could Capcom follow up? They brought us a fresh, awesome new sequel, Mega Man X2, released for the Super Nintendo in 1995. In MMX2, you play as X, who after the first game, must wipe out the remaining mavericks, defeat the X-hunters who have resurrected Sigma, as he, with all of Zero's parts, plans to tamper him and try to take over the world once again. So, looks like X has a lot of work to do. Playing X2 is similar to the first game in the series, so fans who have played the original game should have no problem getting used to this game. X2 feels a ton more polished than the original, as it has more dialogue, a better story, and better level design and gameplay elements. The boss menu, unlike in the first game, gives you the map and the names of the mavericks instantly on the screen as you won't have to press a certain button on your SNES controller to reveal who that maverick is and what weapon he/she has. There are tons of secrets in this game just like the first, ranging from heart tanks, to sub tanks, and Dr. Light capsules and these secrets are as always rewarding. There are new upgrades that Dr. Light gives you in this game, ranging from an air dash, to a sensor that finds hidden passageways leading to items and other secrets. The music is also very rock n' roll like the first game, and still very memorable. The level design is also a bit more polished than the first, as it is more challenging and even more fun. Capcom also included a special chip called the Cx4 chip, which allows for some 3-D wireframe effects during the game. X2 also has a great story, as the plot leaves you guessing until the very end. Mega Man X2 is a better game than the first, but there are some problems. Capcom didn't use the Cx4 chip to it's fullest potential, as the 3-D wireframe effects only happen in the title screen, the opening dialogue, and the second part of the Sigma battle, where Sigma's true form is revealed to be a computer virus. The X-Buster is a little bit overpowered as it can take out quite a few bosses very quickly and easily, also making the game a little bit easier than the original. Also, the alternate ending isn't worth the effort, as it is where you can defeat the X-hunters before you beat all 8 mavericks to get Zero's parts from them, so you won't have to face him as a boss near the end of the game. It isn't worth it as when you defeat Zero as a boss, he finds out who he is and helps X, and either way, Zero dosen't become evil. Also, Zero is a very easy boss to fight. Overall, Mega Man X2 holds up pretty well. It surpasses the original in almost every way possible, and is a Super NES classic like the original. The problem is, if you want to pick up X2 for your Super NES today, it's gonna cost you upwards toward $80, as X2 is one of the rarest Mega Man games in existance. The easiest way to experience this SNES gem is to pick up the Mega Man X Collection for PS2 and GameCube for only a few bucks, so don't miss out on playing Mega Man X2 because you'll regret it if don't play it.