So I was doing browsing some gaming forums like I usually do, when I read a message where someone wished Mega Man a happy 21st birthday. I cannot believe I'd forgotten the anniversary of my favorite video game character. For shame. I've only been playing the blue bomber's games for almost as long as he's been around. Really, screwed up economy or not, I should have remembered this!
Has it really been 21 years? Why, yes it has. On December 17th, 1987 in Japan, the first Rockman game hit the NES (he's called Rockman over there for all 3 of you that didn't know). The game made it to American in December of the same year as well, under the name Mega Man, only with far less appealing box art. Thankfully, said horrific box art didn't stop Mega Man from becoming what he has today.
My first encounter with Mega Man was the summer of 1989. I was haning out at a friend's place and like most kids back in the day, we were playing the NES. Of all the games my friend had, this one game really stood out to me. It was Mega Man 2. I wasn't very good at the game at all. I died on both Bubble Man and Wood Man's levels. But I was really liked the game and wanted to play more of it, despite my suckitude.
Long story short, that Sunday afternoon that I spent at my friends place is the reason I am now and forever will be a Mega Man addict. I don't care if the games are basically the same thing again and again. The little guy rocks and so do his numerous brothers. Thanks to the original Mega Man's creation, we have Mega Man X, Mega Man Legends, Mega Man Battle Network, Mega Man Zero and so on. Here's to another 21 years of Mega Man.
Admit it, with those funky power-up items Mario takes, at one time or another, you've thought the Italian plumber was on something. He grows in size with a Super Mushroom, he can fly with a Super Leaf/Feather, and a Starman makes him invincible. Sounds like he's on one major acid trip.
