The Blue Bomber and his older, darker cousin, X, are both known for their excellent side-scrolling shooters. However, Capcom decided to switch the tried and true formula for a traditional turn-based combat RPG. How does the game fit in with the others in the series? Read on to find out.

CM is one of my favorite games, visually, on the GameCube. The game features beautiful cel-shaded graphics, which, surprisingly, look great in a game with a slightly darker mood than most MM games. The audio is also great, and I have to say that the voice acting is some of the best that I’ve seen (I guess heard) lately. The voice actors are perfect for the classic characters and new arrivals alike. The music is also nice, catchy enough to hum while playing, but not too annoying so you’re humming it all day.

Although I do hate it much, I have to do a quick comparison. Gameplay-wise, CM is very similar to the LotR RPG, The Third Age. The battle system, and leveling system especially so. However, the battle system has a few added bonuses, Action Triggers (high powered moves using a lot of energy) and Hyper Mode (basically, a “berserk” mode in which your characters gain an insane amount of HP, stats, etc.). Outside of battle, the game almost reminds me of MM: Legends, especially the mapping system. The game takes place over 10 missions, and each is filled with new enemies, items, NPCs, and, of course, a boss. Although the game isn’t as linear as older MM games, there’s definitely not a lot of leg room for free-roaming freaks.

However, the main game can last around 20 hours, depending on how much time you spend on sidequests, which is great for an RPG. After the game, a new quest is open to you, and beating it and the rest of the game 100% could easily pass the 30 hour mark, possibly even up to 35. I got the game a long time ago (2004?) at $30, so it should be a lot cheaper now. With a very compelling story, many sidequests, six customizable characters, and one of the greatest plot twists you’ll see in a long time, MM:CM is one of the better games I’ve played recently.

No matter if you’re a MM fan or an RPG fan looking for something a little different, Mega Man X: Comman Mission might just be your cup of Ramen.