Mega Man fans usually holds the Classic Series as the crown jewel, and maybe the first half of the X Series; I cannot argue with that sentiment, but the Zero Series greatly impressed me despite its flaws.
Gameplay: People consider this the hardest Mega Man series, and they are half right. Zero has a fraction of health compared to bosses and level design leaves no room for mistakes. However, Zero one of the most agile protagonist in the original timeline; he can dash attack and he is capable of charging his both his saber and buster (take that, X5 Z Buster!). With a powerful long range and a powerful melee weapons, you can either opt to blast foes from a safe distance or charging and slashing without giving the enemies' room to strike back; the latter is more difficult to pull off but more satisfying. All 4 games suffer from Scrappy Mechanic like level grinding. I recommend having a save file where you have 2 Subtanks and unlocked charged saber and shot on New Game+. These game are more fun to play on the second play through.
Story: The Zero Series is lauded by many fans (me included) as the best story in the franchise, and not without reason. The Darker and Edgier story shows the consequences of X's and Doctor Light's ideals, as well as the treatment of humans toward robots. The games admirably ditches Status Quo is God and let the story move forward and wisely end at a bittersweet Grand Finale. Characterization is also superb, with both protagonists and antagonists greatly benefit from character development. My only complaint is the retconning of Zero 1 villain makes Ciel improbably smart at the age of 6-7. I also dislike how Capcom gives Zero amnesia as an excuse to make more X games (that have increasingly off the rail plot).
Music: While the stage themes are largely forgettable, all 5 opening stages (Zero 4 has 2 opening stages), final boss themes, and ending credits are powerful pieces. Just make sure you listen to the Remastered tracks.
Verdict: Due the the series' difficulty, not everyone will get to experiences the fantastic swordplay and plot. This series is geared toward veteran X players and can come off as a bit "elitist." If you are a patient gamer, give it a shot.
A Hardcore, Satisfying Adventure
Mega Man fans usually holds the Classic Series as the crown jewel, and maybe the first half of the X Series; I cannot argue with that sentiment, but the Zero Series greatly impressed me despite its flaws.
Gameplay: People consider this the hardest Mega Man series, and they are half right. Zero has a fraction of health compared to bosses and level design leaves no room for mistakes. However, Zero one of the most agile protagonist in the original timeline; he can dash attack and he is capable of charging his both his saber and buster (take that, X5 Z Buster!). With a powerful long range and a powerful melee weapons, you can either opt to blast foes from a safe distance or charging and slashing without giving the enemies' room to strike back; the latter is more difficult to pull off but more satisfying. All 4 games suffer from Scrappy Mechanic like level grinding. I recommend having a save file where you have 2 Subtanks and unlocked charged saber and shot on New Game+. These game are more fun to play on the second play through.
Story: The Zero Series is lauded by many fans (me included) as the best story in the franchise, and not without reason. The Darker and Edgier story shows the consequences of X's and Doctor Light's ideals, as well as the treatment of humans toward robots. The games admirably ditches Status Quo is God and let the story move forward and wisely end at a bittersweet Grand Finale. Characterization is also superb, with both protagonists and antagonists greatly benefit from character development. My only complaint is the retconning of Zero 1 villain makes Ciel improbably smart at the age of 6-7. I also dislike how Capcom gives Zero amnesia as an excuse to make more X games (that have increasingly off the rail plot).
Music: While the stage themes are largely forgettable, all 5 opening stages (Zero 4 has 2 opening stages), final boss themes, and ending credits are powerful pieces. Just make sure you listen to the Remastered tracks.
Verdict: Due the the series' difficulty, not everyone will get to experiences the fantastic swordplay and plot. This series is geared toward veteran X players and can come off as a bit "elitist." If you are a patient gamer, give it a shot.