Review: MEGA MAN BATTLE NETWORK LEGACY COLLECTION is a fantastic way to bring classic Game Boy Advance games to modern platforms

Capcom launched Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection. This collection collects all 10 main lines Battle Network titles from the Game Boy Advance and brings them to the Nintendo Switch, PC (via Steam) and PS4 for the modern audience. You can purchase the entire 10-game collection from your favorite retailers like GameStop (affiliate link) for $59.99, or if you’re more selective about your titles, it’s split into two collections in the digital storefronts for $39.99 each. Capcom was kind enough to provide me with a digital copy of the collection on Nintendo Switch, but the thoughts below are based on my own experience.

The story of Mega Man Battle Network takes place in the near-future interconnected world of Net Society, which depends on computer programs known as Network Navigators (or NetNavis for short) to manage everything from their toasters to city power grids. While the network age brings all manner of convenience, it has also brought in a wave of cybercrime that is eroding all levels of society. In these games, players take on the role of Lan Hikari using her PErsonal Terminal (or PET) and her NetNavi, MegaMan.EXE, to take on the culprits behind these cyber crimes. Players control MegaMan.EXE as he explores the web, engages in grid-based combat, and uses Battle Chips to gain devastating abilities that can eliminate even the most sinister viruses.

This game works really well on Switch and is a lot of fun. Before we get into the gameplay, let’s talk about the start menu and the interface. So when you buy the entire collection, you’ll basically be downloading two games. Volume 1 includes the first three entries in the series (both versions of Mega Man 3 battle net are included) while Volume 2 has the other six entries (two versions for each game). On first launch, you’ll be greeted with Mega Man.EXE and can access menus for things like leveling filter, Buster MAX mode, language settings, and more, or you can access any game you like. It is funny.

The smoothing filter is one I’m sure many fans will discuss. Personally, I can see why some would like to use it and some wouldn’t. I’ve included screenshots below to show the difference between turning it on and off so you can make the call. I think I might slightly prefer the filter.

Buster MAX mode basically gives you an easy game mode. Your MegaBuster will deal 100 damage to enemies instead of 1. It’s a big upgrade that definitely makes things easy. One nice thing is that you can easily turn it on and off at any time from the menu that pops up when you press the ‘-‘ button. Since I’ve been running around the net, I’ve definitely considered throwing it just as boring as the random battles can be.

On that note, let’s move on to more of the actual game. The story is funny. I’m still in the first game, but there’s a lot of content in these games. Basically, you play a fifth grader who ends up having to stop a worldwide terrorist organization. You have to endure trials that are fifth grade like kids who ask you to fight them before you can access their own server. At least as far as I know it all looks like low stakes for the most part and then you’ll hit a high stakes part which lasts about 10 minutes. I like that give and take so far.

The battle system has you send Battle Chips to Mega Man which can be used together if they are multiple or if they have the same chip code. This means that you need to strategize ahead of time as you decide which tokens to have in your satchel and which ones will remain in your inventory. Most of the time these chips will be things like a cannon, a bomb or even a sword, but eventually you’ll have access to other characters like Gutsman, Roll and even Bass, each with their own effects. In addition to sending chips, you’re on a 6×3 grid with a 3×3 section for Mega Man and a 3×3 section for enemies at the start. Some chips can adjust the size of your space and this helps keep things a little different. It’s a pretty unique combat system, and it’s a lot of fun.

Another plus is that music is just plain fun to listen to. The graphics also work really well for the style of the game and especially considering they were originally on the Game Boy Advance.

There are only a handful of complaints I have and they are pretty minor. First, the amount of random battles can be very boring. Secondly, there is no network map. As you progress through the game and explore the network more and more, it can feel like a labyrinth and it’s very easy to get lost. I wish there was an in-game fix. Thankfully, there are sites like Dr. Cossack’s Lab that have maps you can consult for help.

I know I’m probably sounding like a broken record, but at the end of the day, Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection is very funny. There are a few minor gripes I have, but if you want to revisit these beloved Game Boy Advance games or play them for the first time, this is a great collection.