The Anniversary Collection packs 10 Mega Man titles that span across four platforms. Titles 1-6 were on the NES, #7 on the SNES, and #8 on PSX. The collection includes two Japan-only arcade titles that can be unlocked - Mega Man the Power Battle and Mega Man 2 the Power Fighters. A producer interview can be unlocked on the GC version, while an anime video can be found in the PS2 version.

Mega Man 1-6 on NES are emulated perfectly. All titles are full screen and contain the same graphics and sound found in the old cartridges. It’s a blast running through each game to find characters you remember and to watch Mega Man evolve over each sequel. Mega Man 1 contains everyone’s most memorable characters like Guts Man, Cut Man, and Ice Man. In Mega Man 3, Rush the robot dog makes his debut to help Mega Man spring up to higher places. The later titles introduce more trademark Mega Man moves, like the slide and charge-up blast. Sequels also improved on graphics, sound, and cinematic intros for each game. The personal favorite is Mega Man 2, where he stands on top of a building with hair tossing in the air as he looks over the city.

Mega Man 7 on the SNES is a big step up from previous games. The graphics and animation are among the best seen in the series, and Mega Man himself is a bulky sprite with an imprinted angry expression on his face. The action is faster than previous titles but all the gameplay is top notch.

Mega Man 8 on the PSX returns to a slower paced title, and a sprite that seems to be running faster than it’s moving. The game includes the first full anime intro and similar colorful backgrounds found on the SNES version.

All the Mega Man games are difficult. The first part of Guts Man’s stage in Mega Man is probably more difficult than most games released after 1995. The titles are a great reminder of how challenging classic titles were before games could be saved every 5 minutes. But to step up with the times and not frustrate Mega Man’s new fan base, a save feature is included every time a level is passed. Players can even use the old password systems to continue. Control is tight in every game and the most precise movements are need to make jumps or maneuver through areas.

Mega Man Anniversary Collection is a great collection for nostalgic fans and newcomers alike. None of the spin-off Mega Man X titles are included in the package, but what’s included is more than enough to keep any player blasting for more.