Of the tens of thousands video games released in the last 30-odd years, there aren't too many Christmas-themed games out there, compared to other genres, anyway. But among those released, shines an obscure little game starring everyone's favorite blue robot: Mega Man's Rocket Christmas.
A holiday spin on another equally obscure mobile title, Rockman Space Rescue, Rocket Christmas is exactly what it sounds like. Players take to the skies as Rockman to deliver gifts to all the good girls and boys, using inertia to move about. You'll have to navigate a series of twists and turns to reach the kiddos -- but act quickly, because your jet pack won't last forever! But you need not fret; simply locate a stray Christmas cake, and your fuel will replenish. Yes; Mega Man's rocket is powered by Christmas cake. A tastier alternative to fossil fuels.
When the required number of gifts have been delivered, you'll have to make your way to the exit point, where a platform waits to extract you. And, really, that's all there is to it. Rocket Christmas is a rare Dr. Wily-free game, so the plot is pretty much left open to interpretation. Why is Mega Man delivering presents in place of Jolly Old Saint Nicholas? Why is the rocket powered by cake? Where are all the parents?! Ambiguity at its finest.
Capcom ended distribution of the game some years back, but that doesn't mean you still can't play it. The Mechanical Maniacs hosts a download of Rocket Christmas in .jar format. You'll need a Java platform or emulator to play, of course. It's surprisingly fun, albeit a bit sluggish from time to time. Well worth a play if you're into bizarre Mega Man games.
Happy holidays, everyone!
Looks fun!
ReplyDeleteHe looks a bit like an 8 bit Harp Note
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