bit-tech Shopping: Capcom Megaman Network Transmission for GameCube

Rating: 6

Time with product: 4 Years

Strengths: Strategic 2D shooting action, based on GBA Battle Network series, solid soundtrack

Weaknesses: Frustratingly difficult at start of game, weak storyline, short overall length

Summary: Mega Man has branched out in recent years (sports, 3D, etc.), but Network Transmission tries to combine his recent adventures in the Game Boy Advance Battle Network series with his old school 2D shooting escapades. While this new hybrid game has its moments, it also has some obvious flaws. You'll start out with just your regular underpowered sidearm and subweapons. While the sidearm can be upgraded over time, it won't help you much in the beginning. Against some tough bosses early on, you'll have to rely on your subweapons, and their strength is based on randomly available "battle chips". If you aren't lucky enough to have the right battle chips available at a given boss fight, you'll have to wait and/or reload again and again. Network Transmission's artwork and soundtrack work without doing anything special, and beyond the initial difficulty, the game can be fun. Fans of the Battle Network GBA games will want to check this one out for $20 or less, but other Mega Man fans and casual players may simply want to rent this. The Battle Network-based game play isn't the same Mega Man we all grew up with.