The Star Force Series

Since I started doing this little project of mine, Star Force is probably the series I've wanted to write about the most. On the surface, it's a continuation of Battle Network, picking up where the series left off, but beneath it lies perhaps one of the first well written Mega Man series. Sure, it's not perfect and I can think of one section in particular that is just terribly written, but as a whole, the characters and story of Star Force are some of the best the franchise has ever had. I can almost prove that at least someone at Capcom has been studying up on some writing techniques as each game follows the Monomyth (or Hero's Journey) formula almost perfectly.

Unlike Battle Network where each scenario is very episodic and bar a few lines the scenarios could take place anywhere in the story, Star Force is very sequential and the stories only make sense in the order they are told because every motivation of the characters are carefully molded into the who narrative. Lan is a charismatic lead, but lacks any depth to him, where as Geo and his friends are constantly under development and throughout the series. We see Geo undergo a change from a scared and depressed child to the heroic personality of Mega Man in which he embodies. It's probably the only series worth playing for the story.

Gameplay wise Star Force takes what Battle Network had and refines it a bit. Star Force is a lot more flexible and open compared to Battle Network and this does make it easier for sure, but I think it makes it more fun as well and star force does a lot to cut down the grind that Battle Network has. That said if you didn't get any enjoyment out of Battle Networks basic formula, Star Force probably won't do much more to win you over. If you enjoyed Battle Network, but never tried this game, it might be worth it to you to check it out. Some people prefer Battle Network to this series as well, but it's all a matter of tastes more than anything.

The graphics are barely touch-ups on the original Battle Network and the sound effects aren't better. The music however is top notch in every entry so far. Star Force runs a lot more on new material than the nostalgia factor that Battle Network does, but like Battle Network I wonder if this series would have ever gotten off the ground without the name Mega Man. Considering this series isn't doing so hot sales wise right now though, I have to say I sincerely and sadly doubt it. Mega Man himself is a big departure from the norm as far as the franchise is concerned. He looks different, is actually a human, and there is very little in the way of robot master throw backs and the like. This might be a turn off to some fans, but I think the characters are likable overall to make up for this. Give it a whirl, I for one love this series enough to put up with its pitfalls.

One final thing of note, in Japan this game is called Ryuusei no Rockman which translates into Shooting Star Rockman. You may be curios as to where this title comes from.

Any questions?