It’s hard to imagine the gaming landscape without Mega Man. The last sequel to the Mega Man X series was in 2001, and while classic Mega Man has had a much needed resurgence in the last couple of years, it almost feels like X has been forgotten. I say almost because at the time of this review a new Mega Man X collection will be released on all available platforms. In the absense of everyone’s favorite Maverick Hunter we have had a few games that pay direct homage to the MMX formula; Mighty No 9 and Azure Striker Gunvolt. While the latter focuses less on gunning and more on pattern recognition, the formula still works bringing to life frantic action and boss fights that challenge reaction speeds. While the before mentioned are major releases, there are many more games (fan made) that are made to pay respect to MMX and in some cases are remixes of what already exists. This is where 20XX fits in the landscape of games paying tribute to MMX.
From Batterystaple Games, 20XX is a run and gun action platformer that features roguelike gameplay. Taking place in the year (you guessed it) 20XX, in the middle of a robot uprising you take on the role of Nina or Ace, who are tasked with putting a stop to the carnage before it is too late. Nina is armed with a blaster, while Ace combats his enemies with a beam sword. Featuring ten bosses, the games stages randomly generate making each time you play the game a different experience. While the game borrows mechanics from MMX, defeating a boss grants your their powers but you are only allowed three slots. Despite this your avatar’s primary weapon can be powered up for more powerful strikes. Being roguelike in nature, death means losing power ups gained before death. You can turn on permanent upgrades, but they can only be accessed on a higher difficulty.
20XX is already challenging but for those seeking something more, the game does feature daily and weekly challenges as well as a boss rush mode. Those who want something even more challenging can set the game’s seeding before starting a run. These vary from longer levels, no health drops, no currency and even being poisoned for not beating the stage’s bonus timer. If the aforementioned sounds like it’s too much to handle alone, the game also features on the couch co-op as well as online. 20XX’s gameplay is tight and frantic like the games that inspired it and the music is equally nostalgic. Repeated plays unlock more upgrades and even new characters. A game this packed with features feels like it should cost more, but to get this much value from a digital release is an incredible value. Visually the game may appear “unpolished” and despite some of it’s visual shortcomings 20XX has a lot of personality and deserves a spot in your Switch’s digital library.
8/10
