DESCRIPTION

Capcom's longest running franchise makes its PlayStation 2 debut with Mega Man X7, the first "X" game in the futuristic series to make the transition from 2D to 3D. This shift isn't as dramatic as in other titles, however, with the developers opting instead for the "feel" of a side-scrolling game, one wrapped in a 3D veneer. The end-result has the action taking place along pre-determined pathways viewed from fixed camera angles, similar to the style employed in games like Klonoa 2: Lunatea's Veil. Players are also free to swap heroes at any time during their journey, and can take with them two out of a possible three characters. No matter which duo is selected, the goal is the same: to defeat the vile Red Alert Syndicate that has terrorized the galaxy.

In addition to the Blue Bomber, players can control sword-swinging Zero or a brand new character named Axl, who has the ability to hover in the air as well as transform into defeated enemies by means of his special weapon. Thus, part of a level can be completed using Mega Man's distinct abilities, while the rest of the stage can take advantage of either Axl's or Zero's talents, depending on which characters are selected at the game's start. Since players can switch heroes on the fly, they can create powerful combo attacks by starting or finishing an offensive move with either character. Mechanical minions will attack players from all sides, so an auto targeting system has been included to help isolate enemies in the air and along the ground. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide