Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection cover image

Links

Amazon

Playstation

MONSTER

Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection
Item: Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAction, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableApr 14, 2023

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 4

DeveloperCapcom

Overview

Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection features all 10 mainline games in the Mega Man Battle Network series!

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection charms with its engaging story and nostalgic vibes, spotlighting the relationship between Lan and MegaMan.EXE. Critics praise its light-hearted, episodic feel reminiscent of early 2000s culture, but many note weaknesses in narrative depth and predictability, leading to a repetitive experience. While it's a delightful tribute for fans and newcomers, those craving a deeper narrative may walk away disappointed.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, particularly regarding its charming and engaging narrative. Many reviewers highlight the dynamic relationship between the protagonist, Lan Hikari, and his NetNavi, MegaMan.EXE, as a central element that drives the story forward. CGMagazine appreciates the intricate mechanics and satisfying story twists, while Digital Chumps notes the exploration of themes like adulthood and responsibility within a cybercrime context. Critics such as Multiplayer.it and Nintendo Life commend the well-characterized cast and the nostalgic charm reminiscent of early 2000s internet culture, which resonates with both younger and older audiences. The light-hearted, episodic nature of the storytelling, described by Hardcore Gamer and Worth Playing as akin to a Saturday morning cartoon, adds to the overall appeal. However, several critics point out notable weaknesses in the narrative structure and depth. The storytelling is often described as simplistic and predictable, with Gaming Nexus and Hey Poor Player noting that the series tends to reset to a status quo that can diminish character development and emotional investment. Critics like Cubed3 and Nintendojo mention that some story elements feel outdated and lack the depth that modern audiences might expect, leading to a sense of repetitiveness across the series. Additionally, while the charm is acknowledged, some reviewers, such as KeenGamer and TouchArcade, argue that the dialogue can be poorly written or overly cheesy, detracting from the overall experience. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while the Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection offers an enjoyable and nostalgic journey through its charming narrative and endearing characters, it does fall short in terms of depth and innovation. Many reviewers appreciate the light-hearted, engaging nature of the story, as highlighted by GameCritics and SpazioGames, but also recognize the limitations posed by its simplistic plotlines and predictable progression. Ultimately, the collection serves as a delightful homage to the franchise, appealing to fans and newcomers alike, yet it may not fully satisfy those seeking a more profound narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection's gameplay receives high praise for its engaging, strategic mechanics and innovative grid-based combat. Critics laud the action-RPG blend, online features, and deck-building depth, calling it addictive and rewarding. However, repetitive tutorials and grinding detract from the experience, and some feel the lack of variety could hinder binge-play. Despite minor flaws, the gameplay is deemed a standout feature, successfully appealing to both newcomers and fans of the series.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection has garnered a largely positive reception among critics, with many praising its engaging and strategic mechanics. Reviewers from Attack of the Fanboy and Nintendo Life highlighted the faithful and innovative battle system, which combines action-RPG elements with a unique grid-based combat approach. The addition of online functionality and the Buster MAX mode were also noted as significant enhancements, allowing for a more streamlined experience. Critics like TouchArcade and Digital Chumps commended the action-packed and strategic nature of battles, emphasizing the depth provided by the deck-building mechanics and the variety of chips available for players to experiment with. Overall, the gameplay has been described as addictive and rewarding, with many reviewers appreciating the balance of exploration and combat. However, some criticisms were raised regarding certain aspects of the gameplay that detracted from the overall experience. CGMagazine pointed out that the unskippable and repetitive tutorial sections could be tedious for veteran players, while others like Hardcore Gamer and But Why Tho? noted the potential for grinding and the repetitiveness of random encounters. Additionally, while the core mechanics remain consistent across the collection, some critics felt that this similarity could lead to a lack of variety, making the collection less appealing for those looking to binge-play all titles. The absence of certain quality-of-life improvements, such as a mini-map or the ability to grey out unavailable chips, was also mentioned by But Why Tho?, suggesting that there were missed opportunities for enhancing the user experience. Despite these drawbacks, the overall consensus among critics is that the gameplay of Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection is strong, with many considering it one of the standout features of the collection. Reviewers like The Mako Reactor and PCMag described the gameplay as sublime and engaging, reinforcing the sentiment that the combination of real-time tactics and RPG elements offers a compelling experience. The strategic depth and variety in combat, as highlighted by critics such as Gaming Nexus and Nintendo Insider, contribute to a positive reception overall. While there are areas for improvement, the majority of critics agree that the gameplay successfully captures the essence of the original series while providing enhancements that make it appealing to both new players and returning fans.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection's visuals spark mixed reviews; critics love the nostalgic charm of the original sprite graphics and the option to toggle resolutions, but some slam the smoothing filters for making graphics jagged and muddy on larger screens. While an art gallery adds depth, issues like font clashes and aspect ratio limitations detract from the overall experience. It's a commendable effort to revive classics, but not without significant drawbacks that could frustrate die-hard fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of the Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection have garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly regarding the nostalgic charm and overall aesthetic appeal of the original sprite-based graphics. Reviewers like App Trigger and CGMagazine have highlighted the collection's ability to maintain the superb artwork that has aged well over two decades, with App Trigger specifically noting the smoothed graphics that enhance the experience on larger screens. The inclusion of an art gallery showcasing promotional and concept art has also been well-received, adding depth to the visual presentation. Critics such as Digital Chumps and Gaming Nexus appreciated the options provided for graphical updates, allowing players to toggle between higher resolution and original graphics, which enhances the visual experience while preserving the nostalgia of the original titles. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the visual design, particularly in how the graphics translate to larger screens. Critics like GameCritics and Gaming Age pointed out that the smoothing filters can result in a jagged appearance, detracting from the original pixel art charm. Others, like COGconnected and Cubed3, described the visuals as "muddy" or affected by aspect ratio limitations, which can impact the overall presentation. The clash between the in-game text font and the visuals has also been a recurring complaint, as noted by Attack of the Fanboy and GamingTrend, suggesting that certain design choices did not align well with the nostalgic aesthetic. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a divided sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of the Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection. While many appreciate the nostalgic charm and the efforts made to enhance the visuals for modern consoles, there are significant concerns about the effectiveness of the graphical filters and the translation of the original art to larger screens. Critics like Nintendo Life and KeenGamer emphasize that the visuals have stood the test of time, yet the mixed reviews on the smoothing effects and font choices suggest that the collection may not fully satisfy all fans of the original games. The collection is seen as a commendable effort to bring classic titles to a new generation, but with caveats that may affect the experience for some players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection's music and sound design receive positive reviews for nostalgia and the inclusion of a music player with 188 tracks. Critics commend the blend of remastered and original tunes, enhanced by the return of the original anime voice actor. However, some note the audio enhancements on Nintendo Switch could be better, and the sound design feels more aesthetic than essential. Overall, it's a hit with fans but leaves room for improvement in modern audio quality.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of the Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection have garnered a largely positive reception from critics. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and GamingBolt, praised the inclusion of a music player that allows fans to enjoy the extensive soundtrack, which totals 188 tracks according to Nintenderos. Critics like Digital Chumps highlighted the blend of remastered and original music, enhancing the nostalgic experience for players. The iconic nature of the soundtrack was also noted by Multiplayer.it, who emphasized its contribution to the overall gaming experience. Furthermore, the presence of the original voice actor from the anime, as mentioned by GamingTrend, adds an extra layer of authenticity and nostalgia for long-time fans. However, there are some criticisms regarding the sound design and audio enhancements. IGN Italia pointed out that while the Game Boy Advance quality music is pleasant, there could have been better audio enhancements for the Nintendo Switch. GameCritics remarked that the audio serves mostly aesthetic purposes and is not essential for gameplay, suggesting that it may not have a significant impact on the overall experience. Additionally, some critics, like Metro GameCentral and SpazioGames, did not delve deeply into the specifics of sound design, indicating a lack of comprehensive analysis in this area. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection offers a robust and nostalgic musical experience, though it falls short in terms of modern audio enhancements. While the soundtrack and music player are widely appreciated, with reviewers like PCMag and Atomix acknowledging the quality and nostalgic value, there remains a sentiment that the sound design could have been more thoroughly developed for contemporary gaming standards. Critics seem to agree that the collection successfully appeals to long-time fans, but it also leaves room for improvement in the audio experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection impresses with smooth performance on both Nintendo Switch and PS4, earning praise for quality and stability. Critics commend its seamless gameplay, but note a lack of key features like autosave on Switch and minor errors on PS4. Overall, Capcom delivers a solid, reliable collection that respects the franchise's legacy despite some technical quirks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of the Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection has garnered a generally positive response from critics across both the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4 platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, reviewers such as Digital Chumps and Gaming Nexus highlighted the collection's smooth performance, with no crashes or lag reported, indicating a seamless gaming experience. CGMagazine praised the collection for its quality-of-life improvements and a perfect crash rate, while Cubed3 noted that the game felt great to play overall. On the PlayStation 4, critics like Everyeye.it and The Games Machine echoed similar sentiments, stating that the games run well on the PlayStation 5, with no major issues reported, and that the localization of the Japanese versions was well-executed. Despite the overall positive reception, there were some criticisms regarding technical performance on both platforms. For the Nintendo Switch, Attack of the Fanboy and KeenGamer pointed out the absence of significant quality-of-life features, such as autosave and an in-game map, which could enhance the gameplay experience. Additionally, Gaming Trend mentioned input lag during online battles, which could detract from competitive play. On the PlayStation 4, while the technical performance was generally stable, critics like PSX Brasil noted minor spacing errors that, although not detrimental, could still affect the presentation of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection performs well across both platforms, with the Nintendo Switch receiving a mix of praise for its smooth operation and criticism for missing quality-of-life features. The PlayStation 4 version also received positive remarks for its stability, though some minor issues were noted. Critics like IGN Italia and Gaming Nexus emphasized that the collection runs without notable technical problems, suggesting that Capcom has delivered a solid compilation that respects the legacy of the original titles while providing a reliable gaming experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection is a hit, praised for its replay value thanks to features like Buster Max mode, extra content, and online play. Critics note it offers over 100 hours of gameplay across ten titles, but some warn of repetitive gameplay and similarity between games that could dampen the experience. Overall, it’s a must-have for fans, balancing engaging new features with some gameplay redundancy.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection has garnered a generally positive reception regarding its replay value, particularly due to the inclusion of numerous features that enhance the experience for both new players and long-time fans. Critics like App Trigger and Attack of the Fanboy highlight the new Buster Max mode, which allows players to breeze through the games and enjoy the narratives, making it easier for those returning after a long hiatus. The collection also boasts a wealth of extra content, including achievements, concept art, music galleries, and online functionalities such as ranked matchmaking and chip trading, as noted by CGMagazine and Digital Chumps. This extensive array of features, combined with the sheer volume of content—ten games in total—offers significant replay value, with some critics, such as Gaming Nexus and Hardcore Gamer, suggesting that players could easily invest over a hundred hours into the collection. However, several reviewers pointed out some drawbacks that could impact the overall replay value. A common concern is the repetitiveness of the gameplay across the titles, as mentioned by critics like GamingBolt and Hey Poor Player, who warn that playing the games back-to-back may lead to frustration. Additionally, while the collection includes numerous enhancements, some critics, such as Nintendojo and GameSpew, noted that the games themselves can feel similar, which might deter players from wanting to replay them immediately. The grinding aspect of certain gameplay elements, as highlighted by GameCritics, could also dissuade some players from fully engaging with the collection. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection offers substantial replay value, bolstered by its extensive content and new features. While the repetitiveness of the gameplay and the similarity between titles may pose challenges for some players, the additional elements like online play and collectibles provide enough incentive for many to dive back into the series. Critics such as God is a Geek and Siliconera emphasize the compelling nature of the deck-building mechanics and the ability to revisit the games, suggesting that the collection is a worthwhile investment for fans. In summary, while there are some concerns regarding redundancy, the collection's rich features and content ensure that it remains an engaging experience for a wide audience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding the Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its nostalgic value and the comprehensive nature of the compilation. Reviewers like CGMagazine highlight it as a "massive accomplishment" and a worthy collection for fans and newcomers alike, emphasizing its role as a time capsule for the original games. Digital Chumps and GamingBolt also commend the collection for its wealth of content and the enjoyable experience it offers, appealing to both superfans and those new to the series. The graphical upgrades and additional features, such as the talking MegaMan NetNavi at the title screen noted by App Trigger, contribute to a sense of modernity while retaining the essence of the original games. However, several critics point out notable drawbacks that may impact the overall experience. COGconnected criticizes the lack of variety between titles and mentions the presence of poorly designed dungeon mazes as significant issues. IGN Italia echoes this sentiment by noting that the gameplay structure feels outdated, which could deter new players. Additionally, some reviewers, like GamingTrend and Nintendo World Report, mention that while the collection is enjoyable, it can feel somewhat bare-bones and repetitive, suggesting that the games may not resonate with modern audiences as strongly as they did during their original releases. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among the critics is largely favorable, with many recommending the collection for both fans of the series and newcomers. Nintendo Life and PCMag affirm that the collection is a worthwhile re-release, offering substantial content and a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Critics like Shacknews and Worth Playing appreciate the collection's ability to capture the spirit of the GBA era while providing hours of gameplay. Overall, while there are valid concerns regarding the dated elements and repetitiveness of the gameplay, the Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection is seen as a significant and enjoyable compilation that successfully celebrates the legacy of the beloved series.

TL;DR

The Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection is a well-received nostalgic compilation praised for its extensive content and modern upgrades, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers. Critics commend its achievements as a "time capsule" for the series, but some note outdated gameplay and repetitive elements that may deter new players. Despite these issues, the collection is largely recommended as a satisfying tribute to its legacy, offering a solid dose of retro charm.

MONSTER

Reviews

71 reviews found

Digital Chumps

Nintendo Switch

Apr 12, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection is a well-crafted remaster that appeals to both superfans and newcomers, offering a wealth of content and nostalgia.

Read full review

Nintendojo

Nintendo Switch

May 24, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection is recommended as a fine addition to Capcom's offerings, with enough content to keep players engaged for many hours.

Read full review

Worth Playing

Nintendo Switch

Apr 18, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer concludes that Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection is a really good collection that will provide hours of gameplay. They praise the unique combat system and the prescient concept of the future. They also state that it offers the most value for your dollar among the Mega Man collections.

Read full review

Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

Apr 12, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that the Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection is a worthwhile re-release that offers a lot of content and is recommended for fans of the series and those looking for inventive RPG experiences.

Read full review

GamersRD

PlayStation 4

Apr 16, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer enjoyed the collection and found it entertaining, but mentioned that it doesn't bring much new to the table. They recommend it for fans of the series or those looking for a retro experience.

Read full review

CGMagazine

Nintendo Switch

Apr 12, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection is a massive accomplishment and a worthy collection for any fan of the Blue Bomber or RPG fans in general. It serves as a time capsule for returning fans and an easy way for newcomers to experience classic Mega Man Battle Network games.

Read full review

The Mako Reactor

Nintendo Switch

Apr 12, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer recommends Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection, praising its gameplay, extras, and accessibility options.

Read full review

Gaming Nexus

Nintendo Switch

May 3, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer expresses a strong fondness for the collection, highlighting nostalgia and enjoyment despite minor issues like Buster MAX Mode and screen borders. Overall, Capcom is praised for the collection.

Read full review

App Trigger

Nintendo Switch

Apr 24, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review gives the game a score of 8.5/10 and praises the collection for its graphical upgrade, large collection of backgrounds, and the inclusion of a talking MegaMan NetNavi at the title screen.

Read full review

PSX Brasil

PlayStation 4

Apr 12, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection is a strong compilation of enjoyable games featuring a unique combat system and engaging story, appealing to both new players and long-time fans.

Read full review