Mega Man's look has changed dramatically in the more than two decades since the video game character's NES debut. With each new spin-off or subseries comes a Mega Man for a new generation, and the latest version of the character debuting in the upcoming Mega Man animated series is no different.
Well, it's a little different. He's definitely Mega Man, but there's something off about his new design. Perhaps it has to do with how the armor factors into the new Mega Man show's storyline. We've finally received new details on what exactly this new show will be about, and it's unlike any other Mega Man storyline.
This new version of the character will actually be a robot schoolboy by the name of Aki Light. When he's not living his normal life, Aki can transform into his Mega Man alter ego, complete with iconic buster cannon. Familiar characters like robotic dog Rush will be part of the show, as will a new character by the name of Mega Mini (who basically looks like a micro-sized version of Mega Man).
There is at least a degree of talent behind the show. Dentsu Entertainment and DHX Media are working together on the project with Man of Action Entertainment, the company responsible for the popular Ben 10 and Generator Rex shows. Here's how Dentsu and DHX Media officially describe the story for the show (via Anime News Network):
"The new animated Mega Man series focuses on a normal, upbeat schoolboy robot, who discovers that deep within his programming lies secret protocols that can transform him into the powerful Mega Man. And, as the world's first robotic super-hero, Mega Man must face the threats of Silicon City, while trying to preserve his secret identity and maintain a regular robot boy life."
It doesn't sound awful on paper. In fact, it could be good. The setup is all there, as is the creative talent behind the project. Yet, it's still hard to get over this new Mega Man's design. I mean, just look at him.
What did fans do to deserve this? This new version of the character's limbs are lanky, his face near-expressionless. His smile looks painted on. His glowing suit feels more at home in Tron than in the Mega Man universe.
I think "lifeless" is the word one might use to describe this Mega Man. Here's hoping he looks better in action when the show debuts in 2017.
