Old page wikitext, before the edit (old_wikitext ) | '{{About|the character|the series|Mega Man Zero}}
{{DISPLAYTITLE:Zero (''Mega Man'')}}
{{General VG character
| name=Zero
| image=Zero-mmx.png
| caption= Zero as he appears in the ''X'' series
| series= [[Mega Man X (series)|Mega Man X]], [[Mega Man Zero (series)|Mega Man Zero]]
| firstgame= ''[[Mega Man X (video game)|Mega Man X]]'' (1993)
| creator=[[Keiji Inafune]]
| designer=Keiji Inafune (''X'' series)<br /> Toru Nakayama (''Zero'' series)
| voice={{Collapsible list|title=[[Japanese language|Japanese]]
|[[Ryōtarō Okiayu]] (''Mega Man X'' series, ''Tatsunoko vs. Capcom'', ''(U)MvC3'', ''Onimusha Blade Warriors'', ''Project X Zone'', ''Project X Zone 2'')
|[[Yūto Kazama]] (''Mega Man Zero'' series)}}
{{Collapsible list|title=English
|Wayne Doster (''Mega Man X4'')
|Jack Merluzzi (''Mega Man X7'')
|[[Lucas Gilbertson]] (''Mega Man X8'', ''Command Mission'', ''Maverick Hunter X'')
|Jamie West (''Mega Man ZX Advent'')
|[[Rino Romano]] (''Onimusha Blade Warriors'')
|[[Johnny Yong Bosch]] (''Marvel vs. Capcom'', ''Super Smash Bros.'')}}
| motion_actor=
| inuniverse=
}}
{{nihongo|'''Zero'''|ゼロ}} is a video game [[character (arts)|character]] present throughout [[Capcom]]'s [[Mega Man|''Mega Man'' franchise]]. First appearing in the 1993 game [[Mega Man X (video game)|''Mega Man X'']] for the [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System|Super Nintendo]], Zero is a Maverick Hunter, a mechanical soldier in charge of defeating Mavericks, robots who turned against humanity. He continues his job as the main character of the [[Mega Man Zero|''Mega Man Zero'' series]]. Zero has also played a supporting role in other game series such as the [[Mega Man ZX|''Mega Man ZX'' series]] and appeared in crossover video games as a guest character.
First developed by [[Keiji Inafune]] when he was attempting to create a new design for Mega Man for the ''X'' series, Zero was instead used as a secondary character. In the ''Zero'' series, which was developed by [[Inti Creates]], Zero is the [[protagonist]] and had a change in his design, which was meant to create a more "human feel" to him. Zero has since played a minor role in the ''ZX'' series as Model Z. His inclusion in the ''Mega Man X'' series has generally received positive critical response from video games reviewers while his story within the ''Mega Man Zero'' series received similar response but mostly due to how darker and different Zero became from previous ''Mega Man'' characters.
==Conception and creation==
Zero was created by designer [[Keiji Inafune]] when he was told to recreate Mega Man for a new series on the [[Super Nintendo]], ''Mega Man X''. He wanted to design a Mega Man different from the original one.<ref name="bestdamn">{{cite journal |author=Hoffman, Chris |title=The Best Damn Mega Man Feature. Period |journal=[[Play (US magazine)|Play]] |volume=3 |issue= 4 |date=April 2004}}</ref><ref name="gamespot"/> However, Inafune realized afterwards that the character he created was too different from Mega Man's old appearance to be viewed positively by fans.<ref name="bestdamn"/> Deciding to let another designer work on the character that eventually became [[Mega Man X (character)|Mega Man X]] while he developed Zero, Inafune created the character intending him to be "the 'other main character' that would "steal all the good scenes".<ref name="gamespot">{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/saturn/action/megamanx4/news_6179759.html |title=TGS '07: Mega Man celebrates 20th anniversary |date=2007-09-24 |author=Hirohiko, Niizumi |publisher=[[GameSpot]] |accessdate=2009-09-13}}</ref> He further described Zero as representing the idea that "nothing is absolute", and circumstances can change anything. When asked if Zero had killed the cast of the original ''Mega Man'' titles, suspected due to their absence in the ''X'' series, he replied no, adding that given how he had designed the character, "Zero is not such a person--it is not in his profile."<ref name="Staff2008">{{cite web |publisher=[[Capcom]] |work=Capcom Digital Downloads |author=Staff|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080910223907/http://www.capcomdigital.com/blog/2008/09/05/inafunesan_answers_your_questions|archivedate=September 10, 2008|accessdate=2009-09-18 |date=2008-09-05 |url=http://www.capcomdigital.com/blog/2008/09/05/inafunesan_answers_your_questions |title=Inafune-san Answers Your Questions!}}</ref>
During his playable debut in ''Mega Man X4'', Capcom wanted to Zero to be distinguished from X, resulting in the created of the Z-saber which Zero uses for close combat in contrast to X's projectile moves, believing they were too similar in ''Mega Man X3''. Due to the difficulty of playing as Zero, the vast majority of the developers were against that decision at first. As a result, Zero was given special techniques from the ''[[Street Fighter]]'' franchise which resulted in the approval from the developers. In order to make Zero's story to be more engaging, Capcom created Iris, a female Reploid, believing it was a fresh idea never used in previous games.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://shmuplations.com/megamanx4/|title=Mega Man X4 – 1997 Developer Interview|publisher=Shmuplations|accessdate=January 1, 2018}}</ref>
The concept of Zero starring in his own series was proposed by Inafune.<ref>Mega Man Zero Works, p. 168</ref> Inafune proposed that Zero star in his own series, and planned to go forward with the idea at the end of ''Mega Man X5''. However, he was unable to after Capcom announced another ''Mega Man'' title without his involvement.<ref name="bestdamn"/> Designed by Toru Nakayama of [[Inti Creates]], Zero was meant to have a more "human feel" rather than the complete "mechanical feel" of the ''X'' series. Nakayama wanted the public to recognize that this series was different from the ''X'' series. Since [[Capcom]] wanted Zero's general structure to be the same, Inti-Creates concentrated on how different they could make him, rather than how similar.<ref>Mega Man Zero Works, p. 171</ref> Zero's depiction in the series was intended to be morally ambiguous and depend on the perspective, appearing as a hero from one point of view and a [[terrorist]] from another.<ref>Mega Man Zero Works, p. 175</ref>
===Design===
[[File:Zero-mmz.png|thumb|In the ''Zero'' series, Zero was redesigned to look both sleeker and more human.]]
Designed to be "harder and wilder" than the original Mega Man, Zero's design ultimately resembled Mega Man X in several ways due to his initial character concept, Inafune's insistence on drawing the character, and input from other project artists.<ref name="R20"
>R20, pp. 205-207</ref> In the ''X'' series, Zero has red and white armor with twin "horns" on his helmet. Zero also has his signature long blonde hair. His main weapon is the Z-saber, an energy-based sword that introduced melee combat to the ''Mega Man'' games. His secondary weapon is the Z-buster, a cannon mounted at the end of his right arm, similar to Mega Man X's primary weapon.<ref>R20, p. 259</ref> A tertiary weapon that would orbit around Zero was also considered, but left uncompleted. Unlike the original Mega Man, who had a full head of hair under his helmet, Zero has a smooth secondary helmet, intended to imply the characters were older.<ref name="R20"/> In ''Mega Man X4'', Zero was going to receive his own enhanced armor in the same way X does, but the development team decided not to finish it.<ref name="ultimatearmor">{{cite journal | journal=CFC Style Fan-Book CAP! | volume=4 | publisher=Capcom | author=Ariga, Hitoshi | date=Summer 1997 | title=X4 Original Mega Armor: The Untold Story | page=8 | language=Japanese}}</ref>
In the ''Zero'' series, Zero sported a much more humanized and sleeker redesign. His mecha-inspired armor was eschewed for a red uniform consisting of a vest, gloves, and boots, while his arms and legs were more anatomically detailed. His Z-buster was no longer fused inside his hand, instead it was a handgun, Buster Shot, that fired energy bullets. The Z-saber also became a triangular holographic blade, rather than a [[lightsaber]]-like weapon.<ref>Mega Man Zero Works, p. 141</ref> Early concept art featured Zero with solid-black, pupil-less eyes, though this changed to a normal set of eyes as development progressed.<ref>Mega Man Zero Works, p. 147</ref>
==Appearances==
===In ''Mega Man'' video game series===
Zero made his debut appearance in ''[[Mega Man X (video game)|Mega Man X]]'' in 1993, and a cameo appearance in ''[[Mega Man 2: The Power Fighters]]''. In the latter, Zero was revealed to have been originally created by [[Doctor Wily|Dr. Wily]] sometime during the [[Mega Man (original series)|''Mega Man'' series]]. Zero works as a Maverick Hunter, a soldier in charge of defeating Mavericks, robots who turned against humanity. He plays the role as [[List of characters in the Mega Man X series#Mega Man X|X]]'s comrade and best friend in the ''X'' series. The two, later accompanied by [[List of characters in the Mega Man X series#Axl|Axl]], fight [[List of characters in the Mega Man X series#Sigma|Sigma]], [[List of characters in the Mega Man X series#Vile|Vile]], and other enemies throughout the series. While in the first two titles he only assists X during gameplay, he becomes an optional character in ''X3''. In ''[[Mega Man X4]]'', Zero is one of two playable characters, along with X. In his scenario, Zero is haunted by nightmares of a shadowy figure (implied to be Wily) awakening him and giving him orders to destroy an unknown individual, and visions of ensuing carnage. Additionally, during his scenario, Sigma reminds him of the time that he led the Maverick Hunters, and the encounter between the two that led to a vicious battle that led to Sigma punching out the crystal on Zero's helmet, leading to Sigma later becoming infected with the Maverick Virus. Depending on the story development, Zero can be fought as a [[boss (video gaming)|boss character]] in ''[[Mega Man X5]]''.<ref name="CapcomProduction">{{cite video game|level=Unknown stage 3|title=Mega Man X5|developer=Capcom Production Studio 3 |publisher=Capcom |date=2000|platform=PlayStation }}</ref> In ''[[Mega Man X6]]'', Zero is not initially present in the game since he went missing in the end of ''Mega Man X5'' during a fight against Sigma, and he becomes an optional character depending on how the story develops throughout the game.<ref name="CapcomProduction_a">{{cite video game|level=Introduction|title=Mega Man X6|developer=Capcom Production Studio 3 |publisher=Capcom |date=2001|platform=PlayStation }}</ref> In the spin-off title ''[[Mega Man Xtreme]]'', he is an assistant character but becomes playable in the sequel, ''[[Mega Man Xtreme 2]]''. He is also playable during the prologue and the last chapters from the [[role-playing video game]] ''[[Mega Man X: Command Mission]]''.
The ''Mega Man Zero'' series features Zero as the title character and protagonist. Set around 100 years after the ''X'' series,<ref>Mega Man Zero Works p. 18</ref> Zero helps a scientist named Ciel fight the human city of Neo Arcadia, during which he destroys Omega - his original body, Dr. Weil, and Copy X, leader of Neo Arcadia, twice.<ref name="mmz-21">Mega Man Zero Works, pp. 20-21</ref> Zero makes an appearance in the ''ZX'' series as Model Z, who plays a minor supporting role in the plot in the [[Mega Man ZX|first ''ZX'' game]]. In ''[[Mega Man ZX Advent|ZX Advent]]'', Zero plays an even smaller role, only having a few lines throughout the game. Zero's ''[[Mega Man Battle Network]]'' counterpart, Zero.EXE makes an appearance in ''[[Mega Man Network Transmission]]'' as the antagonist of the first half of the game. He later aids [[List of characters in the Mega Man Battle Network series#MegaMan.EXE|Mega Man]] against the true villain, The "Professor".
===Other appearances===
The ''Mega Man Zero'' version of Zero's character appears as a sub-boss in [[SNK|Playmore]]'s [[Fictional crossovers in video games|crossover]] [[fighting game]] ''[[SNK vs. Capcom: SVC Chaos]]''<ref>{{cite book | author=Enterbrain staff | date=September 2003 | title=Enterbrain Nook Arcadia Extra Vol. 12 SNK vs. Capcom SVC Chaos Extreme Encounter | publisher=[[Enterbrain]] | language=Japanese | page=220 | isbn=978-4-7577-1618-6}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | author=IGN staff | date=2003-07-31 | title=Secret SNK vs Capcom Characters | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/431/431095p1.html | publisher=[[IGN]] | accessdate=2012-01-29}}</ref> and as a hidden character in ''[[Onimusha Blade Warriors]]''.<ref>{{cite web | author=Alfonso, Andrew | title=Onimusha Guide & Walkthrough | url=http://guides.ign.com/guides/536091/page_4.html | publisher=[[IGN]] | accessdate=January 31, 2012}}</ref> The ''Mega Man X'' version of Zero appears as a hidden character in ''[[Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars]]'' and as a playable character in ''[[Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds]]'', ''[[Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3]]'' and ''[[Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite]]''.<ref name="ZeroandJoe">{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/103/1034545p1.html|title=Character Unveil: Tatsunoko vs. Capcom|last=Bozon|first=Mark|publisher=IGN|date=2009-10-13|accessdate=2009-10-13}}</ref><ref name="Ciolek2010">{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/the-x-button/2010-11-17|title=The X Button Yet More Heroes|last=Ciolek|first=Todd|publisher=[[Anime News Network]]|date=2010-11-17|accessdate=2010-11-17}}</ref> and in ''[[Project X Zone]]'' and its sequel ''[[Project X Zone 2]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.siliconera.com/2015/04/12/project-x-zone-2-coming-west-fall/|title=Project X Zone 2 Is Coming To The West This Fall|publisher=Siliconera|accessdate=April 24, 2015}}</ref> In the latter titles, Zero was chosen to represent the "Mega Man" franchise over Mega Man himself, as director Ryota Niitsuma thought he had more variation in his moves.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://spong.com/feature/10110305/Interview-Marvel-vc-Capcom-3-Producer-Ryota-Niitsuma|title=Interviews// Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Producer Ryota Niitsuma|date=January 24, 2011|accessdate=February 9, 2011}}</ref> Zero also appears as a collectable trophy and costume for the Mii Fighters in ''[[Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U|Super Smash Bros. for Wii U]]'', and as an Assist Trophy in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''.<ref>[https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2018-08-08/super-smash-bros-ultimate-switch-game-adds-simon-richter-chrom-dark-samus-king-k-rool/.135236 Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Switch Game Adds Simon, Richter, Chrom, Dark Samus, King K. Rool]-Anime News Network</ref>
Zero's appearances in the two manga series based on the ''Mega Man X'' series resemble his video games one.<ref>{{cite book | author=Yoshihiro, Iwamoto|title=Rockman X|volume=1|publisher=Kodansha|year=1994|isbn=4-06-321704-3}}</ref><ref>{{cite book | author=Ikehara, Shigeto|title=Irregular Hunter Rockman X|volume=1|publisher=Kodansha|year=1994|isbn=978-4063217261}}</ref> However, in the ''Mega Man Zero'' manga, Zero is depicted as a Reploid having two personalities depending on his usage of a helmet: without his helmet he is portrayed as cowardly whereas the other one resembles his video games counterpart.<ref>{{cite book | author=Kajima, Hideto|title=Rockman Zero|volume=1|publisher=Kokoro Comics|year=2004|isbn=978-4091431714}}</ref>
==Reception==
Zero's character was met with positive critical response by publications for video games. [[Game Revolution]] called him "mysterious, [[androgynous]]" and compared him to [[Proto Man]] "with a ponytail".<ref name="Tackett2006">{{cite web |publisher=[[Game Revolution]] |accessdate=2009-09-13 |title=Mega Man X Collection Review |author=Tackett, Tim |url=http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/ps2/mega-man-x-collection |date=2006-02-14}}</ref> Jeese Scheeden from [[IGN]] named him one of his ten favorite sword-wielding characters in the video games, describing him as an answer to the question of how Mega Man would fight if armed with a sword, and noted his fighting style as popular with gamers.<ref name="Schedeen2008">{{cite web |title=Top Videogame Sword Masters |publisher=[[IGN|IGN Entertainment]] |work=[[IGN]] |accessdate=2009-09-13 |page=4 |url=http://stars.ign.com/articles/915/915789p4.html |author=Schedeen, Jesse |date=2008-10-02}}</ref> GameZone writer Michael Knutson praised the inclusion of Zero in the ''Mega Man X'' series, citing his playability as popular amongst series fan as it expanded the gameplay.<ref name="Knutson2006">{{cite web |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20070616045810/http://ps2.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r26873.htm|archivedate=2007-06-16|url=http://ps2.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r26873.htm |title=Mega Man X Collection Review |publisher=GameZone |date=2006-01-10 |author=Knutson, Michael |accessdate=2009-09-13}}</ref> Jeremy Parish from [[1UP.com]] stated that his appearance as a playable character with his own story in ''Mega Man X4'' by itself made it the best game in the ''X'' series.<ref name="Parish2006">{{cite web |url=http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3146893&did=1 |author=Parish, Jeremy |work=[[1UP.com]] |publisher=[[UGO Networks]] |accessdate=2009-09-13 |date=2006-01-10 |title=Mega Man X Collection Review |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100105220716/http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3146893&did=1 |archivedate=2010-01-05 |df= }}</ref> [[GameSpot]] noted the contrast in his gameplay to that of Mega Man X in ''Mega Man X4'' increased the difficulty of using him in the title.<ref name="East1997">{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps/action/megamanx4/review.html |title=Mega Man X4 Review |publisher=[[GameSpot]] |accessdate=2009-09-13 |date=1997-11-12 |author=East, Mark}}</ref> Additionally, Brett Elston from [[GamesRadar]] credited Zero as one of the reasons the ''X'' series became so popular and that his own popularity within gamers earned him his own video game series.<ref name="Elston">{{cite web |url=http://www.gamesradar.com/f/the-ultimate-mega-man-retrospective/a-2008062794557758069/p-7|author=Elston, Brett |publisher=GamesRadar|title=The ultimate Mega Man retrospective |accessdate=2010-03-31}}</ref>
Zero's connections with the original ''Mega Man'' characters have been the subject of speculations within fans. As it is believed that Dr. Wily created Zero in the image of Protoman or the posibility that he was responsible for multiple deaths offscreen as it is unknown what happened to the original ''Mega Man'' cast, explaining their abscence in the ''X'' storyline. In 2018, Capcom left clues about how Wily dies when creating Zero but the idea of Zero killing the ''Mega Man'' characters was negated.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.destructoid.com/mega-man-x-design-document-further-explains-the-zero-and-dr-wily-connection-487385.phtml|publisher=Destructoid|title=Mega Man X design document further explains the Zero and Dr. Wily connection |accessdate=January 1, 2019}}</ref>
IGN repeated their positive sentiments about Zero in their list of characters they wished to see appear in a future ''[[Marvel vs. Capcom (series)|Marvel vs. Capcom]]'' title, describing him as "arguably cooler than Mega Man", regardless of version in comparison.<ref name="Schedeen2009">{{cite web |title=Player's Wanted: Marvel vs. Capcom 3 |publisher=[[IGN|IGN Entertainment]] |work=[[IGN]] |accessdate=2009-09-13 |page=1 |url=http://stars.ign.com/articles/975/975223p1.html |author=Schedeen, Jesse |date=2009-04-20}}</ref> ''[[PlayStation: The Official Magazine|PSM]]'' praised the character as well, stating "[he] might wear some funky shoes, but that doesn't stop him from kicking some robot butt".<ref name="Staff1997">{{cite journal |journal=[[PlayStation: The Official Magazine|PSM]] |issue=2 |page=58 |author=Staff |date=October 1997 |title=Mega Man X4 Review}}</ref> While reviewing ''[[Mega Man X: Command Mission]]'', 1UP.com criticized that his English voice acting makes him "sound like a surfer".<ref name="Staff2004">{{cite web |url=http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3134859&did=1 |author=1UP Staff |work=[[1UP.com]] |publisher=[[UGO Networks]] |accessdate=2009-09-17 |date=2004-09-23 |title=Mega Man X Command Mission (GameCube) |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100105112629/http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3134859&did=1 |archivedate=2010-01-05 |df= }}</ref> GamesRadar also cited Zero's actors across the ''X'' series, finding the first from ''X4'', Wayne Doster, unappealing due to his infamous scene where he yells in front of the dead Iris. On the other hand, the site praised Yong Bosch's take on the character, believing it was likable.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/losing-your-voice-x-characters-changed-actors/|title=Losing your voice - 10 characters that changed actors|publisher=GamesRadar|date=April 4, 2013|accessdate=July 1, 2018}}</ref> The fandom in general found the scene where he yells "What am I fighting for?!" as one of the worst parts in voice acting in ''Mega Man'' history alongside some cutscenes from ''[[Mega Man 8]]'' to the point of calling it an "horror".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.destructoid.com/learn-why-the-voice-acting-from-mega-man-8-and-x4-was-so-bad-272168.phtml|publisher=Destructoid|title=Learn why the voice acting from Mega Man 8 and X4 was so bad|accessdate=January 1, 2019}}</ref>
In regards to his ''Mega Man Zero'' incarnation, GameSpot believed the character's redesign was well employed based on his presentation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/mega-man-zero-review/1900-2882128/|title=Mega Man Zero Review|publisher=GameSpot|accessdate=December 31, 2018}}</ref> IGN considered Zero's retake be like a [[breakout character]] due to how he develops his own skills unlike previous versions of the Mega Man cast.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/07/09/mega-man-zero-collection-review|title=MEGA MAN ZERO COLLECTION REVIEW|publisher=IGN|accessdate=December 31, 2018}}</ref> [[Destructoid]] simply described Zero as "a red death machine who uses pistols, lightsabers, shields, and multiple other melee weapons to fuck shit up." due to his dark characterization when compared with previous main characters.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.destructoid.com/review-mega-man-zero-collection-175956.phtml|title=Review: Mega Man Zero Collection|publisher=Destructoid|accessdate=December 31, 2018}}</ref> Nevertheless, Nintedo Life noticed that across Zero's spin-off, the title Reploid continously showed a [[character arc]] that would make him more likable to gamers, earning the spotlight for the first time based on how he was originally a side character.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/wiiu-eshop/mega_man_zero_gba|title=Mega Man Zero Review (Wii U eShop / GBA)|publisher=Nintendo Life|accessdate=December 31, 2018}}</ref> Similarly, [[US Gamer]] referred to Zero to have one of the more elaborated story arcs in the Mega Man franchise in general due to how he changes between the ''X'' series and the ''Mega Man Zero''. The writer further added that the apparent misrelationship between Zero and X before the revelation the latter was a clone gone corrupted was one of the darkest things seen in Capcom's games due to the idea of Zero working to kill X, the former protagonist of the series.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.usgamer.net/articles/companions-through-life-and-death-time-and-again-the-story-of-inti-creates-and-mega-man|title=Companions Through Life and Death: The Story of Inti Creates and Mega Man|publisher=US Gamer|accessdate=December 31, 2018}}</ref>
==Footnotes==
{{Reflist|30em}}
==References==
*{{cite book |author=Capcom |title=Mega Man Zero Official Complete Works |publisher=[[Udon Entertainment]] |year=2008 |isbn=1-897376-01-4}}
*{{cite book |isbn=978-4-86233-178-6 |date=March 2008 |language=Japanese |title=R20 Rockman & Rockman X Official Complete Works |publisher=Udon Entertainment |author=Capcom}}
{{Mega Man X}}
{{Mega Man Zero}}
{{Mega Man Zero series}}
{{Good article}}
[[Category:Anthropomorphic characters in video games]]
[[Category:Capcom protagonists]]
[[Category:Characters designed by Keiji Inafune]]
[[Category:Fictional swordsmen]]
[[Category:Fictional suicides]]
[[Category:Male characters in video games]]
[[Category:Marvel vs. Capcom fighters]]
[[Category:Mega Man characters]]
[[Category:Robot characters in video games]]
[[Category:Robot superheroes]]
[[Category:Fictional soldiers in video games]]
[[Category:Video game bosses]]
[[Category:Video game characters introduced in 1993]]
[[Category:Video game secret characters]]
[[Category:Video game characters who can teleport]]' |
New page wikitext, after the edit (new_wikitext ) | '{{About|the character|the series|Mega Man Zero}}
{{DISPLAYTITLE:Zero (''Mega Man'')}}
{{General VG character
| name=Zero
| image=Zero-mmx.png
| caption= Zero as he appears in the ''X'' series
| series= [[Mega Man X (series)|Mega Man X]], [[Mega Man Zero (series)|Mega Man Zero]]
| firstgame= ''[[Mega Man X (video game)|Mega Man X]]'' (1993)
| creator=[[Keiji Inafune]]
| designer=Keiji Inafune (''X'' series)<br /> Toru Nakayama (''Zero'' series)
| voice={{Collapsible list|title=[[Japanese language|Japanese]]
|[[Ryōtarō Okiayu]] (''Mega Man X'' series, ''Tatsunoko vs. Capcom'', ''(U)MvC3'', ''Onimusha Blade Warriors'', ''Project X Zone'', ''Project X Zone 2'')
|[[Yūto Kazama]] (''Mega Man Zero'' series)}}
{{Collapsible list|title=English
|Wayne Doster (''Mega Man X4'')
|Jack Merluzzi (''Mega Man X7'')
|[[Lucas Gilbertson]] (''Mega Man X8'', ''Command Mission'', ''Maverick Hunter X'')
|Jamie West (''Mega Man ZX Advent'')
|[[Rino Romano]] (''Onimusha Blade Warriors'')
|[[Johnny Yong Bosch]] (''Marvel vs. Capcom'', ''Super Smash Bros.'')}}
| motion_actor=
| inuniverse=
}}
{{nihongo|'''Zero'''|ゼロ}} is a video game [[character (arts)|character]] present throughout [[Capcom]]'s [[Mega Man|''Mega Man'' franchise]]. First appearing in the 1993 game [[Mega Man X (video game)|''Mega Man X'']] for the [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System|Super Nintendo]], Zero is a Maverick Hunter, a mechanical soldier, Reploid, in charge of defeating enemy Reploids, Mavericks, who turned against humanity and with enemy robots, Mechaniloids. He continues his job as the main character of the [[Mega Man Zero|''Mega Man Zero'' series]]. Zero has also played a supporting role in other game series such as the [[Mega Man ZX|''Mega Man ZX'' series]] and appeared in crossover video games as a guest character.
First developed by [[Keiji Inafune]] when he was attempting to create a new design for Mega Man for the ''X'' series, Zero was instead used as a secondary character. In the ''Zero'' series, which was developed by [[Inti Creates]], Zero is the [[protagonist]] and had a change in his design, which was meant to create a more "human feel" to him. Zero tragically died in "Megaman Zero 4", which was the final end of the [[Mega Man Zero|''Mega Man Zero'' series]]. Also, Zero has since played a minor role in the ''ZX'' series as Model Z. His inclusion in the ''Mega Man X'' series has generally received positive critical response from video games reviewers while his story within the ''Mega Man Zero'' series received similar response but mostly due to how darker and different Zero became from previous ''Mega Man'' characters.
==Conception and creation==
Zero was created by designer [[Keiji Inafune]] when he was told to recreate Mega Man for a new series on the [[Super Nintendo]], ''Mega Man X''. He wanted to design a Mega Man different from the original one.<ref name="bestdamn">{{cite journal |author=Hoffman, Chris |title=The Best Damn Mega Man Feature. Period |journal=[[Play (US magazine)|Play]] |volume=3 |issue= 4 |date=April 2004}}</ref><ref name="gamespot"/> However, Inafune realized afterwards that the character he created was too different from Mega Man's old appearance to be viewed positively by fans.<ref name="bestdamn"/> Deciding to let another designer work on the character that eventually became [[Mega Man X (character)|Mega Man X]] while he developed Zero, Inafune created the character intending him to be "the 'other main character' that would "steal all the good scenes".<ref name="gamespot">{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/saturn/action/megamanx4/news_6179759.html |title=TGS '07: Mega Man celebrates 20th anniversary |date=2007-09-24 |author=Hirohiko, Niizumi |publisher=[[GameSpot]] |accessdate=2009-09-13}}</ref> He further described Zero as representing the idea that "nothing is absolute", and circumstances can change anything. When asked if Zero had killed the cast of the original ''Mega Man'' titles, suspected due to their absence in the ''X'' series, he replied no, adding that given how he had designed the character, "Zero is not such a person--it is not in his profile."<ref name="Staff2008">{{cite web |publisher=[[Capcom]] |work=Capcom Digital Downloads |author=Staff|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080910223907/http://www.capcomdigital.com/blog/2008/09/05/inafunesan_answers_your_questions|archivedate=September 10, 2008|accessdate=2009-09-18 |date=2008-09-05 |url=http://www.capcomdigital.com/blog/2008/09/05/inafunesan_answers_your_questions |title=Inafune-san Answers Your Questions!}}</ref>
During his playable debut in ''Mega Man X4'', Capcom wanted to Zero to be distinguished from X, resulting in the created of the Z-saber which Zero uses for close combat in contrast to X's projectile moves, believing they were too similar in ''Mega Man X3''. Due to the difficulty of playing as Zero, the vast majority of the developers were against that decision at first. As a result, Zero was given special techniques from the ''[[Street Fighter]]'' franchise which resulted in the approval from the developers. In order to make Zero's story to be more engaging, Capcom created Iris, a female Reploid, believing it was a fresh idea never used in previous games.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://shmuplations.com/megamanx4/|title=Mega Man X4 – 1997 Developer Interview|publisher=Shmuplations|accessdate=January 1, 2018}}</ref>
The concept of Zero starring in his own series was proposed by Inafune.<ref>Mega Man Zero Works, p. 168</ref> Inafune proposed that Zero star in his own series, and planned to go forward with the idea at the end of ''Mega Man X5''. However, he was unable to after Capcom announced another ''Mega Man'' title without his involvement.<ref name="bestdamn"/> Designed by Toru Nakayama of [[Inti Creates]], Zero was meant to have a more "human feel" rather than the complete "mechanical feel" of the ''X'' series. Nakayama wanted the public to recognize that this series was different from the ''X'' series. Since [[Capcom]] wanted Zero's general structure to be the same, Inti-Creates concentrated on how different they could make him, rather than how similar.<ref>Mega Man Zero Works, p. 171</ref> Zero's depiction in the series was intended to be morally ambiguous and depend on the perspective, appearing as a hero from one point of view and a [[terrorist]] from another.<ref>Mega Man Zero Works, p. 175</ref>
===Design===
[[File:Zero-mmz.png|thumb|In the ''Zero'' series, Zero was redesigned to look both sleeker and more human.]]
Designed to be "harder and wilder" than the original Mega Man, Zero's design ultimately resembled Mega Man X in several ways due to his initial character concept, Inafune's insistence on drawing the character, and input from other project artists.<ref name="R20"
>R20, pp. 205-207</ref> In the ''X'' series, Zero has red and white armor with twin "horns" on his helmet. Zero also has his signature long blonde hair. His main weapon is the Z-saber, an energy-based sword that introduced melee combat to the ''Mega Man'' games. His secondary weapon is the Z-buster, a cannon mounted at the end of his right arm, similar to Mega Man X's primary weapon.<ref>R20, p. 259</ref> A tertiary weapon that would orbit around Zero was also considered, but left uncompleted. Unlike the original Mega Man, who had a full head of hair under his helmet, Zero has a smooth secondary helmet, intended to imply the characters were older.<ref name="R20"/> In ''Mega Man X4'', Zero was going to receive his own enhanced armor in the same way X does, but the development team decided not to finish it.<ref name="ultimatearmor">{{cite journal | journal=CFC Style Fan-Book CAP! | volume=4 | publisher=Capcom | author=Ariga, Hitoshi | date=Summer 1997 | title=X4 Original Mega Armor: The Untold Story | page=8 | language=Japanese}}</ref>
In the ''Zero'' series, Zero sported a much more humanized and sleeker redesign. His mecha-inspired armor was eschewed for a red uniform consisting of a vest, gloves, and boots, while his arms and legs were more anatomically detailed. His Z-buster was no longer fused inside his hand, instead it was a handgun, Buster Shot, that fired energy bullets. The Z-saber also became a triangular holographic blade, rather than a [[lightsaber]]-like weapon.<ref>Mega Man Zero Works, p. 141</ref> Early concept art featured Zero with solid-black, pupil-less eyes, though this changed to a normal set of eyes as development progressed.<ref>Mega Man Zero Works, p. 147</ref>
==Appearances==
===In ''Mega Man'' video game series===
Zero made his debut appearance in ''[[Mega Man X (video game)|Mega Man X]]'' in 1993, and a cameo appearance in ''[[Mega Man 2: The Power Fighters]]''. In the latter, Zero was revealed to have been originally created by [[Doctor Wily|Dr. Wily]] sometime during the [[Mega Man (original series)|''Mega Man'' series]]. Zero works as a Maverick Hunter, a soldier in charge of defeating Mavericks, robots who turned against humanity. He plays the role as [[List of characters in the Mega Man X series#Mega Man X|X]]'s comrade and best friend in the ''X'' series. The two, later accompanied by [[List of characters in the Mega Man X series#Axl|Axl]], fight [[List of characters in the Mega Man X series#Sigma|Sigma]], [[List of characters in the Mega Man X series#Vile|Vile]], and other enemies throughout the series. While in the first two titles he only assists X during gameplay, he becomes an optional character in ''X3''. In ''[[Mega Man X4]]'', Zero is one of two playable characters, along with X. In his scenario, Zero is haunted by nightmares of a shadowy figure (implied to be Wily) awakening him and giving him orders to destroy an unknown individual, and visions of ensuing carnage. Additionally, during his scenario, Sigma reminds him of the time that he led the Maverick Hunters, and the encounter between the two that led to a vicious battle that led to Sigma punching out the crystal on Zero's helmet, leading to Sigma later becoming infected with the Maverick Virus. Depending on the story development, Zero can be fought as a [[boss (video gaming)|boss character]] in ''[[Mega Man X5]]''.<ref name="CapcomProduction">{{cite video game|level=Unknown stage 3|title=Mega Man X5|developer=Capcom Production Studio 3 |publisher=Capcom |date=2000|platform=PlayStation }}</ref> In ''[[Mega Man X6]]'', Zero is not initially present in the game since he went missing in the end of ''Mega Man X5'' during a fight against Sigma, and he becomes an optional character depending on how the story develops throughout the game.<ref name="CapcomProduction_a">{{cite video game|level=Introduction|title=Mega Man X6|developer=Capcom Production Studio 3 |publisher=Capcom |date=2001|platform=PlayStation }}</ref> In the spin-off title ''[[Mega Man Xtreme]]'', he is an assistant character but becomes playable in the sequel, ''[[Mega Man Xtreme 2]]''. He is also playable during the prologue and the last chapters from the [[role-playing video game]] ''[[Mega Man X: Command Mission]]''.
The ''Mega Man Zero'' series features Zero as the title character and protagonist. Set around 100 years after the ''X'' series,<ref>Mega Man Zero Works p. 18</ref> Zero helps a scientist named Ciel fight the human city of Neo Arcadia, during which he destroys Omega - his original body, Dr. Weil, and Copy X, leader of Neo Arcadia, twice.<ref name="mmz-21">Mega Man Zero Works, pp. 20-21</ref> Zero makes an appearance in the ''ZX'' series as Model Z, who plays a minor supporting role in the plot in the [[Mega Man ZX|first ''ZX'' game]]. In ''[[Mega Man ZX Advent|ZX Advent]]'', Zero plays an even smaller role, only having a few lines throughout the game. Zero's ''[[Mega Man Battle Network]]'' counterpart, Zero.EXE makes an appearance in ''[[Mega Man Network Transmission]]'' as the antagonist of the first half of the game. He later aids [[List of characters in the Mega Man Battle Network series#MegaMan.EXE|Mega Man]] against the true villain, The "Professor".
===Other appearances===
The ''Mega Man Zero'' version of Zero's character appears as a sub-boss in [[SNK|Playmore]]'s [[Fictional crossovers in video games|crossover]] [[fighting game]] ''[[SNK vs. Capcom: SVC Chaos]]''<ref>{{cite book | author=Enterbrain staff | date=September 2003 | title=Enterbrain Nook Arcadia Extra Vol. 12 SNK vs. Capcom SVC Chaos Extreme Encounter | publisher=[[Enterbrain]] | language=Japanese | page=220 | isbn=978-4-7577-1618-6}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | author=IGN staff | date=2003-07-31 | title=Secret SNK vs Capcom Characters | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/431/431095p1.html | publisher=[[IGN]] | accessdate=2012-01-29}}</ref> and as a hidden character in ''[[Onimusha Blade Warriors]]''.<ref>{{cite web | author=Alfonso, Andrew | title=Onimusha Guide & Walkthrough | url=http://guides.ign.com/guides/536091/page_4.html | publisher=[[IGN]] | accessdate=January 31, 2012}}</ref> The ''Mega Man X'' version of Zero appears as a hidden character in ''[[Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All-Stars]]'' and as a playable character in ''[[Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds]]'', ''[[Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3]]'' and ''[[Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite]]''.<ref name="ZeroandJoe">{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/103/1034545p1.html|title=Character Unveil: Tatsunoko vs. Capcom|last=Bozon|first=Mark|publisher=IGN|date=2009-10-13|accessdate=2009-10-13}}</ref><ref name="Ciolek2010">{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/the-x-button/2010-11-17|title=The X Button Yet More Heroes|last=Ciolek|first=Todd|publisher=[[Anime News Network]]|date=2010-11-17|accessdate=2010-11-17}}</ref> and in ''[[Project X Zone]]'' and its sequel ''[[Project X Zone 2]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.siliconera.com/2015/04/12/project-x-zone-2-coming-west-fall/|title=Project X Zone 2 Is Coming To The West This Fall|publisher=Siliconera|accessdate=April 24, 2015}}</ref> In the latter titles, Zero was chosen to represent the "Mega Man" franchise over Mega Man himself, as director Ryota Niitsuma thought he had more variation in his moves.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://spong.com/feature/10110305/Interview-Marvel-vc-Capcom-3-Producer-Ryota-Niitsuma|title=Interviews// Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Producer Ryota Niitsuma|date=January 24, 2011|accessdate=February 9, 2011}}</ref> Zero also appears as a collectable trophy and costume for the Mii Fighters in ''[[Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U|Super Smash Bros. for Wii U]]'', and as an Assist Trophy in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''.<ref>[https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2018-08-08/super-smash-bros-ultimate-switch-game-adds-simon-richter-chrom-dark-samus-king-k-rool/.135236 Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Switch Game Adds Simon, Richter, Chrom, Dark Samus, King K. Rool]-Anime News Network</ref>
Zero's appearances in the two manga series based on the ''Mega Man X'' series resemble his video games one.<ref>{{cite book | author=Yoshihiro, Iwamoto|title=Rockman X|volume=1|publisher=Kodansha|year=1994|isbn=4-06-321704-3}}</ref><ref>{{cite book | author=Ikehara, Shigeto|title=Irregular Hunter Rockman X|volume=1|publisher=Kodansha|year=1994|isbn=978-4063217261}}</ref> However, in the ''Mega Man Zero'' manga, Zero is depicted as a Reploid having two personalities depending on his usage of a helmet: without his helmet he is portrayed as cowardly whereas the other one resembles his video games counterpart.<ref>{{cite book | author=Kajima, Hideto|title=Rockman Zero|volume=1|publisher=Kokoro Comics|year=2004|isbn=978-4091431714}}</ref>
==Reception==
Zero's character was met with positive critical response by publications for video games. [[Game Revolution]] called him "mysterious, [[androgynous]]" and compared him to [[Proto Man]] "with a ponytail".<ref name="Tackett2006">{{cite web |publisher=[[Game Revolution]] |accessdate=2009-09-13 |title=Mega Man X Collection Review |author=Tackett, Tim |url=http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/ps2/mega-man-x-collection |date=2006-02-14}}</ref> Jeese Scheeden from [[IGN]] named him one of his ten favorite sword-wielding characters in the video games, describing him as an answer to the question of how Mega Man would fight if armed with a sword, and noted his fighting style as popular with gamers.<ref name="Schedeen2008">{{cite web |title=Top Videogame Sword Masters |publisher=[[IGN|IGN Entertainment]] |work=[[IGN]] |accessdate=2009-09-13 |page=4 |url=http://stars.ign.com/articles/915/915789p4.html |author=Schedeen, Jesse |date=2008-10-02}}</ref> GameZone writer Michael Knutson praised the inclusion of Zero in the ''Mega Man X'' series, citing his playability as popular amongst series fan as it expanded the gameplay.<ref name="Knutson2006">{{cite web |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20070616045810/http://ps2.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r26873.htm|archivedate=2007-06-16|url=http://ps2.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r26873.htm |title=Mega Man X Collection Review |publisher=GameZone |date=2006-01-10 |author=Knutson, Michael |accessdate=2009-09-13}}</ref> Jeremy Parish from [[1UP.com]] stated that his appearance as a playable character with his own story in ''Mega Man X4'' by itself made it the best game in the ''X'' series.<ref name="Parish2006">{{cite web |url=http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3146893&did=1 |author=Parish, Jeremy |work=[[1UP.com]] |publisher=[[UGO Networks]] |accessdate=2009-09-13 |date=2006-01-10 |title=Mega Man X Collection Review |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100105220716/http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3146893&did=1 |archivedate=2010-01-05 |df= }}</ref> [[GameSpot]] noted the contrast in his gameplay to that of Mega Man X in ''Mega Man X4'' increased the difficulty of using him in the title.<ref name="East1997">{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps/action/megamanx4/review.html |title=Mega Man X4 Review |publisher=[[GameSpot]] |accessdate=2009-09-13 |date=1997-11-12 |author=East, Mark}}</ref> Additionally, Brett Elston from [[GamesRadar]] credited Zero as one of the reasons the ''X'' series became so popular and that his own popularity within gamers earned him his own video game series.<ref name="Elston">{{cite web |url=http://www.gamesradar.com/f/the-ultimate-mega-man-retrospective/a-2008062794557758069/p-7|author=Elston, Brett |publisher=GamesRadar|title=The ultimate Mega Man retrospective |accessdate=2010-03-31}}</ref>
Zero's connections with the original ''Mega Man'' characters have been the subject of speculations within fans. As it is believed that Dr. Wily created Zero in the image of Protoman or the posibility that he was responsible for multiple deaths offscreen as it is unknown what happened to the original ''Mega Man'' cast, explaining their abscence in the ''X'' storyline. In 2018, Capcom left clues about how Wily dies when creating Zero but the idea of Zero killing the ''Mega Man'' characters was negated.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.destructoid.com/mega-man-x-design-document-further-explains-the-zero-and-dr-wily-connection-487385.phtml|publisher=Destructoid|title=Mega Man X design document further explains the Zero and Dr. Wily connection |accessdate=January 1, 2019}}</ref>
IGN repeated their positive sentiments about Zero in their list of characters they wished to see appear in a future ''[[Marvel vs. Capcom (series)|Marvel vs. Capcom]]'' title, describing him as "arguably cooler than Mega Man", regardless of version in comparison.<ref name="Schedeen2009">{{cite web |title=Player's Wanted: Marvel vs. Capcom 3 |publisher=[[IGN|IGN Entertainment]] |work=[[IGN]] |accessdate=2009-09-13 |page=1 |url=http://stars.ign.com/articles/975/975223p1.html |author=Schedeen, Jesse |date=2009-04-20}}</ref> ''[[PlayStation: The Official Magazine|PSM]]'' praised the character as well, stating "[he] might wear some funky shoes, but that doesn't stop him from kicking some robot butt".<ref name="Staff1997">{{cite journal |journal=[[PlayStation: The Official Magazine|PSM]] |issue=2 |page=58 |author=Staff |date=October 1997 |title=Mega Man X4 Review}}</ref> While reviewing ''[[Mega Man X: Command Mission]]'', 1UP.com criticized that his English voice acting makes him "sound like a surfer".<ref name="Staff2004">{{cite web |url=http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3134859&did=1 |author=1UP Staff |work=[[1UP.com]] |publisher=[[UGO Networks]] |accessdate=2009-09-17 |date=2004-09-23 |title=Mega Man X Command Mission (GameCube) |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100105112629/http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3134859&did=1 |archivedate=2010-01-05 |df= }}</ref> GamesRadar also cited Zero's actors across the ''X'' series, finding the first from ''X4'', Wayne Doster, unappealing due to his infamous scene where he yells in front of the dead Iris. On the other hand, the site praised Yong Bosch's take on the character, believing it was likable.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/losing-your-voice-x-characters-changed-actors/|title=Losing your voice - 10 characters that changed actors|publisher=GamesRadar|date=April 4, 2013|accessdate=July 1, 2018}}</ref> The fandom in general found the scene where he yells "What am I fighting for?!" as one of the worst parts in voice acting in ''Mega Man'' history alongside some cutscenes from ''[[Mega Man 8]]'' to the point of calling it an "horror".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.destructoid.com/learn-why-the-voice-acting-from-mega-man-8-and-x4-was-so-bad-272168.phtml|publisher=Destructoid|title=Learn why the voice acting from Mega Man 8 and X4 was so bad|accessdate=January 1, 2019}}</ref>
In regards to his ''Mega Man Zero'' incarnation, GameSpot believed the character's redesign was well employed based on his presentation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/mega-man-zero-review/1900-2882128/|title=Mega Man Zero Review|publisher=GameSpot|accessdate=December 31, 2018}}</ref> IGN considered Zero's retake be like a [[breakout character]] due to how he develops his own skills unlike previous versions of the Mega Man cast.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/07/09/mega-man-zero-collection-review|title=MEGA MAN ZERO COLLECTION REVIEW|publisher=IGN|accessdate=December 31, 2018}}</ref> [[Destructoid]] simply described Zero as "a red death machine who uses pistols, lightsabers, shields, and multiple other melee weapons to fuck shit up." due to his dark characterization when compared with previous main characters.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.destructoid.com/review-mega-man-zero-collection-175956.phtml|title=Review: Mega Man Zero Collection|publisher=Destructoid|accessdate=December 31, 2018}}</ref> Nevertheless, Nintedo Life noticed that across Zero's spin-off, the title Reploid continously showed a [[character arc]] that would make him more likable to gamers, earning the spotlight for the first time based on how he was originally a side character.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/wiiu-eshop/mega_man_zero_gba|title=Mega Man Zero Review (Wii U eShop / GBA)|publisher=Nintendo Life|accessdate=December 31, 2018}}</ref> Similarly, [[US Gamer]] referred to Zero to have one of the more elaborated story arcs in the Mega Man franchise in general due to how he changes between the ''X'' series and the ''Mega Man Zero''. The writer further added that the apparent misrelationship between Zero and X before the revelation the latter was a clone gone corrupted was one of the darkest things seen in Capcom's games due to the idea of Zero working to kill X, the former protagonist of the series.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.usgamer.net/articles/companions-through-life-and-death-time-and-again-the-story-of-inti-creates-and-mega-man|title=Companions Through Life and Death: The Story of Inti Creates and Mega Man|publisher=US Gamer|accessdate=December 31, 2018}}</ref>
==Footnotes==
{{Reflist|30em}}
==References==
*{{cite book |author=Capcom |title=Mega Man Zero Official Complete Works |publisher=[[Udon Entertainment]] |year=2008 |isbn=1-897376-01-4}}
*{{cite book |isbn=978-4-86233-178-6 |date=March 2008 |language=Japanese |title=R20 Rockman & Rockman X Official Complete Works |publisher=Udon Entertainment |author=Capcom}}
{{Mega Man X}}
{{Mega Man Zero}}
{{Mega Man Zero series}}
{{Good article}}
[[Category:Anthropomorphic characters in video games]]
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