Mega Man 4

Game Details:

Mega Man 4 introduced a revolutionary new game mechanic. The biggest highlight is that Mega Man can now hold down the attack button to charge up and release a powerful Charge Shot. While this makes the standard Mega Buster much more useful, the game still encourages players to defeat the eight Robot Masters (such as Toad Man, Bright Man, Pharaoh Man, etc.) to acquire their Special Weapons. These Special Weapons are key to navigating later stages and defeating specific bosses. The level design continues the series' tradition of high difficulty and intricate traps, and also introduces unique items like the Wire Adapter, which allows for mid-air grappling, and the Balloon Adapter, which can create temporary platforms. In terms of story, the game initially points to a new character, Dr. Cossack, as the mastermind. However, the final chapter reveals the plot of the series' classic villain, Dr. Wily, adding suspense and drama to the game.

Game Guide:

I. Recommended Boss Order:

An efficient starting order allows you to quickly obtain useful weapons, such as the one from Bright Man.

1. Toad Man: Use the Mega Buster. His attack pattern is simple; use the slide to dodge his Rain Flush and he can be defeated easily.

2. Bright Man: Use Rain Flush. This is the most crucial step, as Rain Flush can clear the screen instantly and deal massive damage to Bright Man. The Flash Stopper you get after defeating him is an extremely powerful weapon that can freeze enemies and laser traps.

3. Pharaoh Man: Use Flash Stopper. Although the Flash Stopper deals no damage, it can freeze him when he jumps to charge his weapon. You can then switch back to the Mega Buster to attack, significantly reducing the difficulty.

4. Dive Man: Use Pharaoh Shot. The Pharaoh Shot can attack from a distance and penetrate his Dive Missiles.

5. Drill Man: Use Dive Missile. The homing missiles can effectively hit Drill Man while he is underground.

6. Ring Man: Use Drill Bomb. Ring Man attacks frequently, and the Drill Bomb is effective at interrupting his attack rhythm.

7. Skull Man: Use Ring Boomerang. The range and hitbox of the Ring Boomerang are perfect for dealing with Skull Man.

8. Dust Man: Use Skull Barrier. The Skull Barrier can absorb Dust Man's vacuum attack and deal damage back to him.

II. Using the Charge Shot:

The Charge Shot is the core mechanic of this game. Not only does it deal double damage to regular enemies, but it also serves as a primary means of attack against some Dr. Wily castle bosses who lack clear weaknesses or whose weaknesses consume a lot of weapon energy. Using the Charge Shot effectively can save Special Weapon energy for more critical boss battles.

III. Item Acquisition:

• W Item: Found in Toad Man's stage. It shoots a wire hook diagonally upwards, allowing you to climb. It's an essential tool for reaching many hidden items and shortcuts.
• B Item: Found in Dust Man's stage. It creates balloons that serve as temporary platforms, used to get past certain platforming hazards.