Withheld Artwork: Siblings Through The Seasons

As a die-hard fan, I expected a bit more out of Mega Man and Mega Man X: Official Complete Works. Don't get me wrong, both books are excellent, all-in-one sources for official and conceptual artwork, but each lacks in terms of the obscure. For example, where was the Mega Missions trading card art in MMXOCW? The gashapon packaging illustrations in MMOCW? The truckloads upon truckloads of CFC artwork?

A considerable amount of official materials have been left out of both books; which raises the question if Capcom simply lost the original prints, or if they're intentionally withholding materials for future artbooks. Some of the rarest pieces, a series of seasonal themed images drawn by Shinsuke Komaki for Capcom's defunct Cyber Channel, seem to suggest the latter. Being a major MMOCW contributor, it's a mystery why these pics were left out; however, we may yet see them again.

A couple months back, through a bit of phone tag, I came in contact with Komaki. A personal fan of his work, I attempted to see if I could squeeze out some rare goods, using the above pieces as examples. Although honored to have an admirer in the West, he expressed no desire to release his work publicly, at least, for the time being. Komaki let slip that his "unreleased pieces" were currently under review for a new Rockman artbook. He didn't say much else, but heavily implied (through some minor broken English), a new classic series artbook was underway as of February 2011.

We've yet to hear of such a project officially, but with the series' 25th anniversary on the horizon, an influx of homage and tributary related projects are expected. A new artbook would not be surprising in the least; given how successful the OCW books are domestically and abroad, Capcom would be crazy not to put out more books.

We'll watch where this one goes, but hey, I'm all for another OCW, albeit one a bit more "complete."

Image credits: The Reploid Research Lavatory

The Inti Creates - Rockman - Shin Chan Connection

Contrary to popular belief, Inti Creates does more than produce Rockman games. While the Zero series certainly takes the crown as the developer's most successful brand, titles based off of the popular Crayon Shin-Chan franchise come a close second.

Inti proudly holds the rights to produce portable titles based off of the colorful property that is Shin-Chan, a popular character in the east that has often been cited as the "Japanese Bart Simpson." While the character is just now beginning to propagate outside of Japan, Shin-Chan games continue to remain exclusive to Japan, and as such, this neat tidbit of trivia goes mostly unheard of to the rest of the world:  turns out, one Inti developed Shin-Chan game in particular is heavily based off of Rockman gameplay mechanics.

In a bit of a self-homage, Inti Creates included some very familiar Rockman elements into 2007's Crayon Shin-Chan DS, a game released only a year after the original Rockman ZX. At the heart of Shin-Chan DS is the "cosplay system", which bears more than a passing glance to ZX's R.O.C.K System. The cosplay system allows Shin to change into one of five outfits mid-gameplay, each featuring their own unique set of abilities inspired by Rockman.....

Localized D-Arts Mega Man X Due Out Soon

Our friends in Japan have been enjoying Bandai's D-Arts Rockman X action figure for a little over a month now, but within one to three weeks time, we'll have him in our hands.

Within the next few weeks, North American retailers will begin to stock and ship out the localized D-Arts Mega Man X. This version touts English packaging (pictured) featuring Mega Man branding, and is said to be far more accessible to purchase than importing from Japan. What's more, Toy Arena and New Egg appear to already have the figure in-hand and ready to ship at a moments notice.

The usual stomping grounds for high-end Bandai products -- Big Bad Toystore and Entertainment Earth -- should be stocking X shortly. Of course, other stores intend to stock the figure soon, too. According to Bandai's Adam Newman, any comic/hobby/anime specialty retailers associated with Bluefin (Bandai's distributor in the US), online or not, plan on sell the figure in early June.

The English X will run around $39.99, but the price tag may vary a few dollars or so depending on the retailer. Just look around a bit and find a place that fits your budget; sounds like you'll have a lot of options.

Never-Before-Seen Battlechip Stadium Footage

Rockman EXE: Battlechip Stadium has long departed from the Japanese arcade scene, but just now we're finally getting some decent footage of this highly obscure title. Reader GroundmanEXE managed to purchase a working BCS cabinet, and is hosting footage of the machine in action over at his YouTube channel. 

Click here for gameplay!

Battlechip Stadium began its arcade run in 2006, shortly after the release of Rockman EXE 6 for the GameBoy Advance. The game acted as an extension of the former, allowing players to upload and download data from their games to the machine, and engage in Net Battles using real plastic Battlechips produced by Takara-Tomy.  BCS spawned a total of three variations; V3, the final version, is what you see above. Not much is known in terms of differentiation, but V3 is said to have exclusive events featuring the likes of a BassFZ.

Groundman intends to upload more footage to his channel over the next few days. If there's something specific you'd like to see (or hear) from the game, let him know at his YouTube channel here!

Looking to purchase BCS? Coin-Op Express had some in-stock a few months back, but I'm not sure if they're any left. Couldn't hurt to ask. UPDATE: Groundman informs me he purchased his via http://www.rs2006.co.jp/overseas.htm

Inafune Comments On Mega Man Universe Cancellation

In an interview with 1Up, Keiji Inafune sat down to discuss his recent ventures in the gaming industry and his experience at Capcom during his last few years with the company. Whilst reminiscing, the subject of Mega Man Universe popped up, a title that would eventually face canceled some sixth months after its announcement. According to Inafune, it was during his leave of absence that the prospect of cancellation reared its head:

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1UP: Speaking of downloadable titles, last year you were very involved in promoting Mega Man Universe for Capcom. There was even a trailer with you on camera saying "Your world, Megafied." A short while ago Capcom canceled that project. Were you disappointed to hear that? Were you surprised when it happened?

KI: Yeah, I was very disappointed at that outcome for several reasons. One, they kind of started to cancel the game as soon as I left, which made it sort of like I was the only one pushing for it. And it wasn't just a game that I personally wanted to make, it was a game that, again, represents what I think the steps that are required for a Japanese company to take in order to realize the value of download content. They need to use a brand name that has value in the West -- and Mega Man is definitely one of those brands I think -- and put it into digital content so that Western gamers can purchase that and get excited about it. And if it's successful then, as I said before, they'll start to market it properly and start to work on making downloadable content in Japan that will sell like the West does. So I felt there was a lot of potential with that title and it could have represented a very important step for the company to take in realizing the value of digital content, and now they're right back where they started a few years ago in not understanding digital content and not [being] able to keep up with the West in that area. So yes, I was very disappointed.
=============

Universe, it seems, is synonymous with Inafune's philosophy in terms of how eastern based developers should handle downloadable products in the West and elsewhere. Universe was designed, from the ground up, to appeal to to the West -- not just in its form of availability but in its art style and music. Heck, the game was called MEGA MAN Universe globally, even in Japan. It sounds as if Universe was attempting to bridge the gape between two region's views on digital content. With Inafune out of the picture, however, the concept went nowhere.

Universe aside, Inafune also spent a good portion of the interview discussing his feeling towards Capcom continuing his work without him. Franchises like Mega Man and Dead Rising continue to have games produced without him, and Inafune, while flattered in a sense, expressed a general concern.

Full details on that subject, and many more topics of interest, check out the interview in full at 1Up.

Custom Break Man Model Is All Kinds Of Awesome (Updated)

The Mega Man universe is populated with a plethora of characters who've never quite been immortalized in plastic; toys, actions figures and the like. Break Man is one such character and like his alter ego, Proto Man, has a devoted and creative fanbase: what do you do when they don't make a Break Man model kit? You make one!

Check out more images here!

This custom Break Man (Hitoshi Ariga style) is the product of reader Jin, a crafty fan who spends his free time modifying and customizing Kotobukiya Rockman model kits to his liking. Would you believe most of the materials used to turn this ordinary Proto Man model into Break Man were handmade? Good stuff.

With Break Man completed, Jin is open to requests fro future Kotobukiya customizations. He's willing to try anything, but ensure the character can adhere to the "frame" of either Proto Man, Mega Man, or Roll, the currently available Kotobukiya models.

Drop your requests in the comments!

UPDATE: I'm sad to report that Break Man here was not created by Jin, but Nagano Ken. Jin (who is unrelated to the famed Jin Saotome) wrongly claimed Break Man as his own creation, and apologizes for any inconvenience this may have caused.

Mega Man Gigamix Volume 1 In Stores Tomorrow

It's been a long time coming but the day is nearly upon us: UDON's Matt Moylan sends word that Mega Man Gigamix Volume 1 will hit comic book store shelves tomorrow, May 25th. Gigamix 1 marks the beginning of Hitoshi Ariga's latest manga saga, leading up to Mega Man's galactic duel with the Stardroids. As per usual, here's a new batch of preview pages for your viewing pleasure:

While the release date is less precise on the online front, Gigamix 1 is guaranteed to be at comic book specialty stores tomorrow. Call your local store ahead of time just in case!

Thanks for the heads up, Matt!

New Rockman Online Location Introduced

It's been awfully quiet on the Rockman Online front; while the game is still being developed, developer NeoWiz has yet to provide any new details concerning the actual game since, well, September. The official Rockman Online blog's most recent updates have played host to the introduction of locations, areas presumably explorable in the game. Tonight's update is no exception: welcome to sky fortress "Atlas."

 Like the earth below, the sky, too, has become a battlefield. Sky Fortress Atlas stands firm as the UCA's aerial defense against the likes of the URA. Developed by Command Mission's Dr. Gaudille, the establishment is built from a powerful Force Metal frame, boasting the latest technology. Atlas is capable of generating great speed despite its hefty size, and can repair itself.

Initially a powerful tool against the URA, Atlas has recently become subjected to more aggressive attacks at the hands of the URA. What's more, UCA scientists fear the fortress may not be able to withstand combat over areas with heavy viral concentrations.

Stay tuned for future Rockman Online updates! Still no release date, but that news has got to be coming around eventually.

Credit: The Mega Man Network

Legends 3's Returning Reaverbots Revealed

Having tallied the votes from both the English and Japanese Devrooms, Capcom officially revealed the returning Reaverbots for Mega Man Legends 3. Did yours make the cut?

Coming in on top is Gorbesh, the shield wielding Reaverbot who loooves to dish one out and hide behind his trusty shield. Hot on his heels, Mimic, the fake/trap treasure chest, the tiny buy mighty Firushudot, and Poh, Legends 2's nightmare fuel.

Based on strong user feedback, two additional Reaverbots were chosen: Arukoitan and Mandomantal. Arukoitan is the famed family of Reaverbots from Legends 1, sentries, of sorts that are controlled by their Ordakoitan brethren, and Mandomantal is a peaceful, water dwelling fellow who can be ridden to reach new heights.

All great picks, in my opinion. Totally stoked about Poh's return... oh, the memories with that one; terrifying, to say the least! I'm positive I'm not alone on that one.

Check out the full post at the devroom for complete details and commentary from the dev team.

New Life For Maverick Hunter, Powered Up?

In a bit of interesting news, to say nothing of unexpected, Sony is gearing up to port PSP titles in HD format for the PlayStation 3. Capcom, sure enough, is quick to jump on this new venture with an HD port of Monster Hunter Portable 3rd. Ah, see where I'm going with this?

The PSP is home to, arguably, two of the best Mega Man games in recent years: Mega Man Powered Up and Maverick Hunter X. Received well by fans and the gaming press alike, both titles, unfortunately, failed to find a place in the market, selling far below Capcom's expectations on a global scale. It's easy to play the blame game, but the longstanding theory is that the games simply couldn't find an audience on the PSP, a system that, at the time of both games' release, had very little market share. In the coming years, both titles received new life on PlayStation Network, though only Maverick Hunter X would be available outside of Japan; Powered Up suffered compatibility issues.

We don't have the numbers behind the PSN versions, but it couldn't hurt to give the two games another chance at finding the audience they deserve. The prospect of PSP to PS3 High-definition ports gives rise to an idea that's been in the forefront of many minds since the PSP Remaster program was announcement made yesterday: HD ports of MMPU and MHX.

Aside from Monster Hunter, Capcom has been mum on further plans for the PSP Remaster program. We don't know what they have planned long term, but I think we have a good chance, a very good chance, of getting and HD MMPU/MHX to happen. All it's going to take is a little fan support.

The idea is currently being churned amidst the fanbase: A single Blu-Ray disc housing both Maverick Hunter and Powered Up, complete HD visuals (that applies to "Day of Sigma", too)  Dual Shock 3 support, optional 3D display, and maybe a few extras. A single package boasting two great games at a steal of a price; fans get a chance to play them on the BIG screen, newcomers get a chance to actually play and enjoy them.

If you're interested in HD version of these games, simply raise your voice! You've got two great outlets to voice your opinion: the Ask Capcom forums, and the Suggestion Box. The demand for a revitalized MMPU and MHX is there, it just needs to be directed at the source.

Certainly, we'd all enjoy some sequels out of these two games instead of more ports, but for that to happen, the originals have to be somewhat successful in a financial sense. So, if this is something relevant to your interest, give Capcom a holler. A little demand can go a long way.

Mega Man #5 Covers Revealed

Archie Comics have revealed both the standard and variant cover for the fifth issue in their Mega Man comic series. Yes, while some of us are still awaiting on issue #1 to hit mailboxes (me!), Archie is quite ahead of the game. Nevertheless, check them out!

Your eyes don't deceive you, that's Mega Man Powered Up's Time Man! Issue #5 looks to be kicking off a brand new story arc featuring the time-warping Robot Master:

"Time Keeps Slipping” Part One: The evil Dr. Wily may be in jail, but that doesn’t mean the adventures are over for Mega Man! Federal agents are investigating Dr. Light for ties to the Robot Masters‘ rampage while sinister figures lurk in the shadows. And why does Dr. Wily look so smug in his jail cell? Don’t miss the beginning of the newest Mega Man adventure! Featuring a painted cover by fan favorite artist Greg Horn!"

Issue #5 is due out for subscribers on August 24, comic shops on September 7, and newsstands everywhere on September 13.

Issue #5 marks the departure of series regular Patrick 'Spaz' Spaziante. In his place, Chad Thomas, artist of past cover variants, will be taking up the pen for the interior artwork. If you want to see Spaz continue his work on the comics, send Archie a line, and make your voice heard!

Credit: The Mega Man Network

MML3 Prototype Version Delayed

Mega Man Legends 3 was supposed to launch right alongside the Nintendo eShop on June 6, right? Unfortunately that's no longer the case -- it's been delayed, reports Famitsu.

According to Famitsu, Capcom chose to delay the game as a means to improve the quality of the product. A new release date has not been determined. Meanwhile, as of this writing, Capcom Japan nor Capcom US have yet to announce the delay on their respective Legends 3/DASH 3 communities. That news should be forthcoming, however.

Disappointing, to say the least, but hopefully this will lead to a far better game. We'll keep an ear out for the new release date, but I think it's safe to say Prototype will release after E3.

Source: Siliconera