Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection
Capcom · Capcom
“Capcom dug up the DS games everyone forgot existed, polished them until they shined, and reminded us that Star Force was always Battle Network's underappreciated younger sibling. The therapy bill for that realization is on you.”
Sally's not done with you yet.
Drop a URL, screenshot, or file and Sally will give you the honest truth.
The Review
Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection bundles all three Star Force games. Dragon/Leo/Pegasus, Zerker x Saurian/Ninja, and Black Ace/Red Joker. Into one package with upscaled visuals, quality-of-life improvements, and an art gallery that's worth the price of admission for fans. These were always the 'other' Mega Man RPGs, living in Battle Network's shadow on the DS while that series got the nostalgia treatment first. Now they get their turn, and Capcom's treatment is respectful if not spectacular.
The games themselves hold up better than expected. The wave-based combat system, which plays out on a vertical grid instead of Battle Network's horizontal one, feels snappier with the improved frame rate and control options. The BrotherBand system. Originally a local wireless feature. Has been reworked for online connectivity, and being able to form bonds with players worldwide adds a social layer these games always deserved. The story across all three games follows Geo Stelar and his alien partner Omega-Xis, and while it's aimed at a younger audience, the themes of grief and connection in the first game are genuinely touching.
The collection's biggest weakness is that it includes all three games without acknowledging that only the first one is actually great. Star Force 2 is mediocre, and Star Force 3, while mechanically the strongest, has a story that goes completely off the rails. The quality-of-life additions. Save states, speed toggle, art gallery. Are welcome but feel minimal compared to what Capcom did with the Battle Network Legacy Collection. No remix modes, no new content, just the games with a fresh coat of paint. For fans, that's enough. For newcomers, it's a tougher sell at full price.
What It Nails
- +All three games in one package with meaningful visual upgrades and smooth performance
- +BrotherBand system reworked for online play. Finally gives these games the social connectivity they deserved
- +Star Force 1's story about grief and connection holds up beautifully, even for adults
- +Art gallery and museum mode are lovingly curated for series fans
What It Botches
- -Quality-of-life features feel thin compared to the Battle Network Legacy Collection treatment
- -Star Force 2 is included and nobody asked for it. It's the weakest entry by far
- -No remix modes or new content. Just the original games with visual polish
- -Full price for three DS games is a hard sell for anyone who isn't already a fan
Think your work can survive this?
Drop a URL, screenshot, or file and Sally will give you the honest truth.
Who It's For
Star Force fans who've been begging Capcom to acknowledge these games exist. Your emails worked. Enjoy your victory lap.
Who Should Skip
If you played the Battle Network Legacy Collection and expected the same level of bonus content, prepare for disappointment. This is a port collection, not a celebration.
External Scores
Your turn. Drop something.
Drop a URL, screenshot, or file and Sally will give you the honest truth.