Mega Man 2
Open world action/adventure platform released by the Nintendo Entertainment System in Japan in 1988 and internationally in 1989. Following the commercial failure of Mega Man, the title's design team decided to complete the series' second installment pro bono, freeing them to pursue a more abstract and expressionistic direction. Oft cited as one of the as one of the most compelling video game titles in history [1], Mega Man 2 was renowned for the depth of its emotional story line [2]. As per the game's lore, the actions of the robot Mega Man are controlled by his creator/enemy Dr. Light (or Licht in German) via his radio-capable helmet. Mega Man 2's stunning final sequence (see below) frequently generates a cathartic outpouring of emotion from the player. Following a treacherous passage to his hidden lair, MegaMan's central antagonist Dr. Wiley morphs into a levitating reptilian creature [3] with pulsating lungs. The game's final battle is soundtracked with silence - even the sound of jumping/shooting is muted [4], creating a stiflingly oppressive environment. Following the final defeat of Dr. Wiley, the soundtrack is lifted... the sound of breathing... labored... remains... the warrior... returns home... on foot... a journey spanning five full seasons... including "cherry blossom time"... upon arrival... the helmet... his prison... looms... on a hill.. in grass so green ... so... fucking... green.
- ↑ Mega Man 2 has spawned legions of hyper-obsessive fans, in 1997 the hip hop artist Mega Ran was listed in Guinness Book of World Records for having released over 130 songs referencing Mega Man.
- ↑ A commonality it shares with other platforms in the EHSPF series.
- ↑ See:Reptilian Conspiracy Theory
- ↑ A creative decision that reportedly resulted in part from composer Takashi Tateishi and sound designer Yoshihiro Sakaguchi's refusal to complete their work on the game until fully compensated.