Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Mega Man ZX Advent builds upon the classic side-scrolling action formula established by its predecessors, delivering tight platforming controls and fast-paced combat. Players choose to follow either Grey, a Reploid awoken from suspended animation, or Ashe, a daring human Hunter, each with slightly different weapons and narrative nuances. Early missions revolve around escorting a train carrying the mysterious Biometal, Model A, only to see it attacked and fused to the protagonist—kick-starting a quest to protect the world from those who would misuse this power.

The transformation into Model A is the game’s signature mechanic, granting access to a diverse repertoire of boss abilities once they are defeated. By “stealing” boss data, the protagonist can morph into specialized forms—each with unique weapons, jumps, and traversal options. This encourages experimentation, as some abilities offer shortcuts or hidden paths in earlier stages, enriching the exploration aspect. From freeze beams to drilling attacks, the arsenal keeps encounters fresh and demands strategic switching mid-battle.

Level design balances linear progression with branching routes, secret areas, and optional challenges. Each stage culminates in a boss gauntlet, where mastering environmental hazards and mobility options is crucial. The differences between Grey and Ashe come down to firepower and personal dialogue, but both paths share identical stage layouts. For veteran players, the challenge ramps up with hidden bosses and time-trial objectives that reward skilled play and further extend replay value.

Graphics

On the Game Boy Advance hardware, Mega Man ZX Advent stands out with its vibrant color palette and detailed sprite work. Character animations are fluid, from the metallic gleam on Model A’s armor to the menacing transformations of each boss. Backgrounds teem with life—ranging from industrial factories to frozen caverns—providing visual variety that complements each stage’s theme.

Boss designs are a particular highlight, showcasing imaginative transformations that reflect their elemental affinities. The pixel art retains clarity even during intense action, thanks to thoughtful sprite scaling and smooth scrolling. Special effects, such as energy bursts and elemental strikes, pop on screen without compromising frame rate or responsiveness.

Transition sequences, like the Biometal fusion and form changes, are presented with brief cutscenes that capture the moment’s impact. While the GBA’s resolution limits fine detail, the overall presentation feels polished and purposeful. Between stages, the Hunter Base hub delivers a clean UI for upgrades and mission briefings, maintaining consistent aesthetics throughout the adventure.

Story

The narrative thrust of ZX Advent centers on the mysterious Biometal Model A and the dual protagonists thrust into an unexpected conflict. Grey’s awakening in a secret factory and Ashe’s treasure-hunting exploits converge on the same fateful train mission, weaving a tale of destiny and the moral weight of advanced technology. Their rescue by friendly Hunters sets up the larger struggle against Prometheus and rival factions seeking ultimate power.

Dialogue sequences strike a balance between world-building and character development, introducing allied Hunters, laboratory scientists, and enigmatic foes along the way. Although the core storyline remains similar for both characters, subtle differences in perspective and weapon choice add personality to each playthrough. Cutscenes employ sprite-based panels with expressive character portraits to convey emotion despite hardware limitations.

As the plot unfolds, revelations about the origins of Biometals and the true purpose of Prometheus deepen the stakes. Occasional side missions and optional boss encounters expand the lore, rewarding exploration with snippets of backstory. While not the most complex narrative in the Mega Man franchise, ZX Advent’s story maintains momentum and provides satisfying payoffs—especially when confronting the ultimate antagonist and uncovering the fate of competing Biometal recipients.

Overall Experience

Mega Man ZX Advent delivers a robust package for fans of action-platformers, combining classic Mega Man mechanics with fresh transformation-based gameplay. The control scheme feels intuitive, and the difficulty curve strikes a good balance between accessible early stages and demanding late-game challenges. Boss encounters test reflexes and adaptability, encouraging repeated attempts to unlock all abilities and secret areas.

Replayability is a core strength: choosing between Grey and Ashe unlocks alternate dialogue and minor weapon variations, while post-game content invites players to tackle new bosses in a remixed fortress. Collectibles such as heart tanks, skill chips, and hidden upgrades spread across stages reward thorough exploration and map-reading skills, extending playtime beyond the main story.

Though constrained by the GBA’s hardware, Mega Man ZX Advent stands as one of the stronger entries in the series—offering tight gameplay, memorable visuals, and a narrative that keeps players engaged from start to finish. Whether you’re a series veteran or new to the world of Biometals, this title provides a polished, action-packed experience that is well worth investing in.

Retro Replay Score

7.4/10