The References To Past Mega Man Games In The Zero Series

[@richardquinata76]

You actually missed one reference in Zero 1; the moment you get control of Zero, head all the way to the left. On the wall you will see the emblem for Sigma, which was most likely used as the danger symbol to warn that the Maverick Virus was inside.

[@iMrQueso]

So true

[@lordmonarch2995]

I thought they wiped out that pesky virus! Remnants of it is still there!?

[@TwinbeeMint]

Another thing is the place that Zero has sealed and awoked by Ciel is the same place that Zero made his first awakening (When he destroyed almost all the Gamma Unit and Sigma has turned Maverick), the place is none other than Dr Wily's Lab.

[@darshio8307]

Didn't know that :0

[@javiervasquez625]

​​@@TwinbeeMint How do you know? Has it ever been confirmed by Inafune and Capcom? Also i'm pretty sure the entire world had completley forgotten of Wily for them to make the connection that Zero was his lattest creation so i'm pretty sure there's no chance this "Underground Lab" happens to be the very same seen in Sigma's flashback.

[@picante_the_dragonslayer]

Bro Elpizo using Iris's last words against Zero is so messed up and this is right after he destroys his best friend's body

[@PrimeShiem]

It's honestly diabolical, even if Elpizo or even Zero realize it at that point.

[@EC_Orion]

God, Zero's final quote vs Weil always sends chills down my spine for exactly that reason. Narrative beauty, that. He finally figured out what he was fighting for.

[@baval5]

Megaman EXE: I receive: Your sword You receive: A bunch of viruses I dont want to deal with.

[@neoqwerty]

It could have been worse, when Megaman.EXE crossovers with Boktai in the same game, Django himself crosses over and helps deal with the Dark Chip problem and becomes summonable, while all Megaman EXE gives Django is a Megabuster and a whole new issue with Shademan getting an actual body and hypnotizing Django's friends. At least Zero just got viruses instead of the mind-control superboss.

[@KertaDrake]

Well... Just lucky they got this version of Zero. If they'd gotten the one from the X series he probably would have just exported a virus they would have no chance of handling in return...

[@xuanathan]

Elpizo's line goes even deeper because the end credits theme, Awakening Will actually has a version with Lyrics, Clover, and it actually also references Iris, with Zero struggling to "Remember the name of that flower" so its very possible Elpizo awakened a deep memory when he said that

[@PrimeShiem]

That's crazy, I never even thought of the fact that Elpizo may have accidentally knocked Zero's memory. But it actually makes perfect sense, seeing as Zero's memories are coming back slowly. Maybe Elpizo reminded him of Iris before memories of her really started coming back.

[@dmtrsgrksrphl2501]

You can say that Harpuia Fefnir and Phantom were not only created with X's DNA but also with the Falcon Gaia and Shadow armors as templates

[@samuelpounds1475]

Poor Blade Armor

[@richardquinata76]

​@@samuelpounds1475 it's just a theory, but I think the Blade Armor was the basis for Leviathan. While it isn't really her body, ZX and ZX Advent introduced Model LX and Thetis respectively. Notice that underwater both can dash in the cardinal directions and even diagonally, with the Blade Armor being able to do at least the cardinal directions. You could call Leviathan and her offshoots a nerf and buff to the Blade Armor.

[@Asatora]

Who uses the gaia armor as template? No one looks or acts in any way that resembles the gaia armor...

[@richardquinata76]

@@Asatora Gaea/Gaia Armor focuses on brute force plus Gaia means earth, and Fighting Fefnir happens to be the brute of the Four Guardians and controls the elements of fire and earth.

[@Asatora]

@@richardquinata76 I'm sorry, what? I do agree that fafnir is a brute and controls fire but the gaea armor focuses on defense, being slow, low ranged and ass in general, also has no ties with fire whatsoever...

[@Ixmythot]

A fun little reasoning for all of Zero 3's callbacks to the earlier games, is that Zero 3 was originally intended as the 'end' of the Zero series, hence why so many questions about Zero are brought up and answered then and there, with X finally fading at the end, and leaving the world to Zero, after revealing that the Mother Elf was finally freed. It's also easily why the final battle against Omega takes place within the ruins of the same lab that Zero was sealed away in, in Zero 1, to further connect the trilogy together, ending where it began. It's immense success....at least in regards to Megaman games, prompted Capcom to push for one last game, hence why Zero 4 goes out of it's way to finally end things fully.

[@PrimeShiem]

I never thought of it that way, yet it makes perfect sense. Like why they brought Phantom back, to add more to, and complete his character.

[@Davestar2112]

While corporate meddling and forcing a sequel is usually a bad thing, I'm glad we got Zero 4. 3 was a good climax for the Zero series, but 4 I think is the perfect end for Zero's character.

[@sheetinthestreet5903]

Ends things fully...until Zero literally comes back as Model Z

[@SongShiyu]

​@@PrimeShiemthere was a rumor that the dev got pissed with capcom and decided to kill zero off in zero 4 to prevent capcom pushing for another zero games. Idk how true this is tho, given that zero has came back from the dead multiple times in the X series. Most notoriously X6, a game inafune didn't know existed till it was released with it's own (some how palpatine returned) kind of explanation as to why zero was alive.

[@javiervasquez625]

​@@Davestar2112 I mean personally i would have loved to see a new Saga literally revolving around Zero and the remaining 3 Guardians leading a "Civil War" against Weil as it was originally intended before Capcom ruined that in favor of a rushed sequel. Having all 3 Guardians just die randomly because of Omega's explosion is EXTREMELY lazy not to mention unfair for all the fans who liked Harpuia, Leviathan and Fefnir and would have loved to see them alive and well in a direct sequel. Regardless Zero 4 did at least offer a satisfying conclusion to Weil's nonsense while also delivering an emotional ressolution to Zero's arc so i'm nonetheless happy that Capcom didn't totally ruin the Zero series with their corporate meddling.

[@LordofSadFac]

As a side note, in Megaman ZX you can find an E-Tank from the classic Megaman Series.

[@Amirifiz]

There's also the W-Tank in that one room and a bunch of other stuff references where you get the E-Tank I know the Highway level is straight outta X1 and I'm pretty sure there's something else besides the whole Omega fight.

[@1erickf50]

11:31 Actually, Holy Land *mashes up both the Iris Theme and the X5 outro reference*. Esperanto is just an action-packed version of that same piano theme.

[@PrimeShiem]

First, yeah I meant to put an image saying that Esperanto uses the motif as well, but Imovie only allows one image at a time. And second nice edited pfp of X6 Zero.

[@grayblacklight560]

All three of the zero games with EX skills have a fire-saber upwards slash, which is almost certainly a callback to the skill gotten from magma dragoon. There's other EX skills that resemble previous special weapons, like reflectlaser resembling the Gemini laser and a downwards ice stab resembling another X4 special weapon, but that seems like the most deliberate. Also, the 'ultimate' form in Zero 2 allows you to use charge attacks instantly using button combinations similar to certain fighting games - given this series history of referencing street fighter, I doubt that it's a coincidence

[@sonsysy4195]

Fire upward slash is Ryuuenjin Ice downward stab is Hyuretsuzan The spinning slash in the air can also be referenced to Split Mushroom's Kuuenbu jump and Kuuenzan slash The rolling on the ground slash maybe in Zero 4 probably also has roots of Ensuizan from Rainy Turtloid in X6 Not sure which Zero number but I remember him having a Dash Stab move... It's a stretch but maybe you can call Shippuuga from Slash Beast in X4 as the inspiration?

[@hattoripool1533]

Im honestly shocked characters like Sigma, Vile, Iris or even some of the other maverick Hunter characters like Alia, Axl, Signas, Iris or even Colonel never had any named mentions by X or Zero in the Zero series. Most of those characters had the biggest impacts in their lives and they never really talk about it. Actually what ever happened to Dr Light or Dr Wily. We never find out what happened to the Light hologram after the X serious nor is it mentioned if he made Copy X’s Ultimate Armor (assuming X used to own that version of the Ultimate Armor) and for Wily it’s pretty obvious he’s still alive in a similar way to Dr Light (he’s possibly Serges and Isoc), Sigma constantly mentioned him in x5 in a boss fight. Like Light and Wily are two loose ends we never got in the series at All and it’s not confirmed if Light and Wily are even around by the Zero era

[@PrimeShiem]

I agree with you, these characters played such a big part in Zero's life, and the fact that they just go forgotten for the most part is honestly criminal in my eyes. And I don't understand why Wily and Light just dissappear in the series. I mean gameplay wise I understand, but story wise, I think Light would still be willing to help Zero.

[@TheTwistedTreant526]

Specially Sigma

[@TWLSpark]

Could it be that, for Light specifically, the energy he was using to keep his artificial conscience running, as well as the capsules, ran out after so much time? Kinda like how X used up all his energy after the fight with Omega, leaving him unable to remain on the real world anymore. It wouldn't be that weird of an assumption, even, considering that the entire world faced an energy crisis shortly after that the elf wars came to a close. On the Willy side of things, it's anybody's guess, really. Maybe he was directly behind Weil's ambitions all along, considering the similarities between them. They both want to subjugate machines and force them to do humanity's bidding, they both want to control the world, and they both have an obsession with Zero. In my opinion, though, he probably expired just like Light might've after the elf wars - he didn't have that much to keep on living for anyway, considering that Zero was sealed and his virus eradicated. Other notable X series characters probably don't get any mention because Zero is amnesiac, with it never being made clear if he ever recovered from that and to which extent. He gets some memories back situationally, yes, but more often than not they're just vague recollections. I'd like to think that his memories were completely wiped off after his death on Zero 4, but since I've never played ZX myself, I couldn't really say if that's true or not.

[@duduvec5971]

Imagine talking about someone for over 100 years after their death just to say their name. That's how i think it would feel to mention them.

[@PassingNeet]

"Weil" is basically wily. Aged, decrepit, insane, but ultimately still pulling the same shit. Trying to use his magnum opus, Zero, to destroy the world. Its not like Wily had a lot of named references in the X series either but he was there basically throughout, trying to return zero to his "Awakened" state. Doctor light, however, doesn't have a parallel.

[@nikis7793]

Heat Genblem, Fenri Lunaedge, Pegasolta Eclair and Tech Kraken are possibly a reference to past megaman x bosses, Rainy Turtloid, Blizzard Wolfang, The Skiver and Squid Adler respectively

[@PrimeShiem]

You know, Blizzard Wolfang and Fenri Lunaedge are really similar now that I think of it. Tech Kraken and Volt Kraken both want revenge for an allies' death.

[@platinumpixel7819]

@@PrimeShiemHellbat Schilt is also a reference to Dark Dizzy from X5

[@javiervasquez625]

​@@PrimeShiem Also Herculious Anchus and Kuwagust Anchus from Zero 1 and Zero 2 respectively are _brothers_ with Kuwagust seeking revenge for Herculious's death very similar to Gravity Beetle from X3 been the brother of Boomer Kuwanger from X1 and also seeking revenge for his brother's death.

[@Josh-qt5zi]

​@PrimeShiem also popla cocapeteti fight in zero 4 use the same gimmick as burn rooster fight in x8 with the moving floors with the fact that cockat are part rooster and deathtanz mantisk from zero 3 and dark Mantis both Mantis theme boss release the same years 2004

[@Josh-qt5zi]

​@@javiervasquez625plus they are loosely based on the Japanese gods Raijin and Fujin with Herculious begin Raijin with mainly electric base attack and kuwagust begin Fujin using mostly wind base attack

[@TWLSpark]

For those that want to experience the invincibility effect without having to suffer through the pain of collecting and grinding cyber-elves, you can just play the Zero Collection (not to be mistaken with the Zero Legacy Collection) and play the Easy scenario - you'll start with every elf effect, including invincibility. I honestly didn't even know that thing existed until I played that mode lol. Edit: Apparently, the Legacy Collection also has access to something much like the older collection's Easy Scenario, so you can experience that there instead. For the record, I haven't played the Legacy Collection so I had no idea. I've only played the DS collection.

[@Marcy5080]

The Legacy Collection's casual mode also starts you with all the elves

[@TWLSpark]

@@Marcy5080 Ohh, that's an infinitely more accessible option, then. I didn't know whether the Legacy Collection had that too, honestly.

[@jruler93]

Casual Scenario Mode in the Legacy Collection is the same.

[@TWLSpark]

@@jruler93 Someone else already said so, yes. Maybe I should edit that out to avoid repeated replies stating the same thing...

[@jinyboi]

My man did 3 playthroughs of each game for this video. that's dedication

[@PrimeShiem]

Yup! It's probably the most obvious in the Zero 1 and 3 section of the video.

[@Davestar2112]

Something i wish we got in the Zero series was some indication that his memories were fully restored. It would have been a good use of some references to jog his memories. At least some of the more formative ones, like his time with Iris, when he "Awakened" in X5, one of his deaths, or just anything about the Maverick Hunters. Maybe have him telling the story of his life to Alouette after she asks him, with Ciel and some resistance soldiers listening.

[@javiervasquez625]

According to an interview Inafune gave after the end of the Zero Saga Zero does in fact remember everything he forgot about his past over the course of the Zero series all the way into his final battle with Weil in Zero 4. The official song "Clover" which is meant to reflect Zero's inner thoughts as he's trying to recall his past memories serves as a canonical exposition of his inner resolve to keep going despite everything he's lost following the Maverick Wars (Iris's death included). You should look it up for it's both genuinely heartwarming and emotional while at the same time informative about Zero's mental state following his second awakening.

[@yohhh6715]

I think his last words sum it well, "I fight for the people I believe in"

[@javiervasquez625]

@@yohhh6715 Not his actual last words but close enough: _I never cared about justice, and I don't ever recall calling myself a hero... I have always fought for the people I believe in. I won't hesitate... If an enemy appears in front of me... I will destroy it! Ciel... Believe in me!_

[@yohhh6715]

@@javiervasquez625 badass

[@SophiaXiaoyuAralaCran]

I like how you admitted that at the last moment of the video, it seems Zero had finally found his own answers. Took years, but he actually pulled it off like a true legend! 🤟

[@PrimeShiem]

Yup! One of the greatest moments for Zero's character.

[@toumabyakuya]

To add to the comparisson of the intro stages of both X7 and Z2: Both stages also have Zero running from a giant Scorpion enemy that will become the Boss of the stage at the end and also has a future ally going with Zero to his HQ.

[@PrimeShiem]

I never even thought of it like that. You even also have the threat of falling into a bottomless pit if you aren't careful.

[@toumabyakuya]

@@PrimeShiem I thought of yet another comparison: Both stages start with a Main Character escaping from an evil organization (Axl is escaping from Red Alert; Zero is escaping from Neo Arcadia).

[@yohhh6715]

But where does the lobotomized Aztec Falcon fit into place?!?!?

[@toumabyakuya]

@@yohhh6715 Eh, nowhere. Not *everything* has to fit.

[@newageretroplayer4856]

That intro is pure nostalgia. Considering my introduction to the Zero series is with that tune (which, by the way, is from the DS collection), pure, utter nostalgia. Like these references. Also, I believe both X and Zero did get MAJOR revamps to their bodies just because of the passage of time. I believe anyway.

[@PrimeShiem]

Yeah, I was also introduced to the Zero series with the DS collection. It'd make since they got upgrades, as their bodies are drastically different than that of their X series designs.

[@newageretroplayer4856]

@@PrimeShiem Which one do you prefer, DS Collection or Legacy Collection BTW?

[@Natsu-jf6br]

me three also got first experience of the whole zero series on the ds collection 😁👌

[@PrimeShiem]

Honestly, if ZX and Advent weren't included, I don't know. It's actually a lot closer than I thought. Maybe its just nostalgia, but idk.

[@kerryvanskonsol792]

​@@PrimeShiemif you don't realise every weapons star skill in megaman zero 1 and 2 actually memory zero using another weapon from the past against maverick, but saber actually completely changed because his original saber not shape like that but new saber zero made by light cutting edge but it's totally low durable but it's can be reshaped and fix same form like triangle shape but more sharp than old saber zero, but new zero saber can explode when he charge if you look zero Sprite smash attack to the enemy, you will saw explosion shattered saber can cause more damage to enemy not cutting, normal slash can only for cutting enemy

[@ev_artwork6443]

There is one thing that wasn't mentioned but I think may be more an Akuma reference at the end of the day, but Omega Zero's ultimate multi-hit combo attack almost feels like a sly nod towards Zero's infamous insta-kill combos in the X games, which using a dash cancel technique just lets you avoid hit stun and drain any boss down to zero in seconds.

[@wijsis013]

This was a great video! I noticed a lot of these, since i grew up playing megaman games and many classics more. Watching this made me want to play the entire 'canon' series again!

[@rejeneracion027rejeneracio5]

9:50 if you see in the background you can see a golden robot is intersting because is Anubis a boss from zero 1 and a foreshadow of the next battles and how is comeback

[@juggi301]

I came here to write this

[@rhysthereddragon1326]

I like to see the reference to Iris’ last words as having merit within the story, as while Elpizo was sort of just ranting, as crazy villains do, the words “A world just for Reploids” hold some emotional weight to Zero, and probably stirred a memory or two. This is just my headcanon, though.

[@vvlaze]

Additionally to the Copy X facts, though not outright stated, its implied the armor he wears in battle is the Ultimate Armor from X4-X6, as it features golden spikes and repeated use of the Nova Strike. He also makes use of a Sub Tank when knocked to low enough health on a high rank, calling back to the X series. The Sub Tanks are still in the Zero games, so it doesn’t stand out as much. In Zero 3, Copy X MK 2 gets a reflecting laser attack, being similar to the Gemini Laser from Megaman 3. If its a reference to an X series weapon, I’m unaware.

[@RippahRooJizah]

I don't believe X ever gets an attack similar to Gemini Laser. Lasers, sure. Weapons that bounce off surfaces, sure. Not so much both.

[@garchompelago]

The Zero series was my saving grace back then. I was just a kid and I experienced bullying at school. I got no friends. I played Megaman Zero series just to cope. Eventually I had to transfer school just to get away from the bullying. I played Megaman Zero alongside Pokemon Emerald and I managed to complete the hard modes of Megaman Zero 1 to 4. I didnt 100% clear each games though and I had to use a guide to find and fight Phantom in MMZ3.

[@MegaManZero15]

Zero: *makes a crazy spin* 11:45 All humans in Area Zero: what 😦

[@MadDragonify]

Jackson in MMZ is of course a reference to Sting Chameleon and also the real life Jackson’s Chameleon, the same species that Fallout’s Deathclaws come from

[@snowjam96]

idk if anyone's already mentioned this, but the upgraded form of the giant cyberelves look a lot like King from Megaman & Bass!

[@MisterPuck]

I never had the e-reader, shame how much was attached to it. Totally missed all of that stuff. Thanks for covering all of it!

[@HelLDeWs]

i dont think most of the e reader content was even around in NA? they added it into the DS and later legacy collections tho

[@KibatheMalinois]

Let us all not forget why one cannot forget about Zero after the events Z4, his most famous special ability from X6: HE CAN HIDE HIMSELF WHILE HE REPAIRS HIMSELF!

[@12MrZ21]

Both Zero 1 and Zero 2's title sequences are direct callbacks to X1 and X2's title sequences respectively.

[@TyphloOmega]

14:12 You forgot to say that is sentence was already said by Zero at the end of Megaman Zero 1. BTW very good video😊.It’s nice to hear people talking about this series which,for me,is underrated.

[@PrimeShiem]

True, he doesn't exactly say that same statement, but there pretty close.

[@GuiResend21]

​@@PrimeShiemIf you compare the Jap script of Zero last words in Zero 1 ending and Zero 4 final battle, you will see that are the same line.

[@MrVibbyyyyy]

You should keep doing these more in depth longer videos there really fun to watch

[@PrimeShiem]

I plan to! It's just that they take a while to make.

[@ProfessionalNamielleLewder69]

Rest in peace... Zero, the Legendary Reploid Hero X, the *TRUE* King of Neo Arcadia

[@sayachan6069]

Interesting reference nobody in the fandom has picked up yet but in Megaman legends 2 there is a rook shaped reaverbot called Fingerii, now in the Megaman zero games there is an enemy type called a Metarook which has the same shape only with tank treads instead of legs but it could be a hint that it is a much earlier version of the Fingerii reaverbot down the Mechaniloid evolutionary line.

[@PrimeShiem]

Oh, that's actually really cool! Man, I really need to play the Legends series at some point.

[@scarf3545]

Maybe this is not a big secret, but some of the EX Skills in Zero Series reference Zero´s past abilities in Megaman X4 - X6.

[@PrimeShiem]

Yeah, I literally wrote about it in the script for the Zero 2 section, and then forgot to include it.

[@edwinlee5145]

Never knew about Jackson from MMZ1! That's a neat piece of trivia for never using the elves!

[@PrimeShiem]

Yeah, it's a col easter egg, just wish it wasn't so painful unlocking him.

[@neonthunder3261]

The X and Zero series have a lot of great stories. Awesome vid for the first snow of january!

[@rockmenx8xx411]

In the X series, Zero originally was a maverick who was defeated but shown mercy by Sigma and then Sigma taught Zero how to be a maverick hunter and introduced Zero to Mega Man X who would go on to become Zero's best friend. But, when Sigma turned maverick, Zero kept trying to kill him. Then in the Zero series, 1 of the 1st things that Ciel did when she found Zero was lie to him by telling him that his best friend Mega Man X had gone crazy and was killing innocent reploids. It wasn't until near the end of the game when she finally told Zero the truth. But instead of Zero being angry with her, he decided to trust her and support her for 3 more games. Zero didn't get upset all at over the fact that Ciel had lied to him and ruined his best friends reputation.

[@neonthunder3261]

@@rockmenx8xx411 Granted, Zero's amnesiac as fuck too and barely remembered X. (Also, this might have to do with the Zero 1 script being rewritten at the last minute for X6, and thank god it was. X turning evil feels like an absolute bastardization of who he is)

[@rockmenx8xx411]

@@neonthunder3261 Amnesiac or not, Ciel admitted to lying on somebody who was innocent, and Zero was said to hate evil.

[@train4292]

@@rockmenx8xx411Aside from reploids, X’s reputation was still spotless for humans. Copy X focused on them after all

[@rockmenx8xx411]

@@train4292 That still doesn't change the fact that Zero decided to trust and support a girl that lied to him and on his best friend.

[@PinBBro]

A little more blatant reference I’m kinda surprised you didn’t include were the images to classic Megaman in designs and enemies in levels. In zero 1 the first set of the neo Arcadia park levels contains the disappearing blocks from the classic series and x5’s sigma fortress, fitting as it’s also home to a devil model. And starting with 2 to 4, various classic enemies would get direct redesigns into the zero style such as the tellys in the form of tellybombs, or shotmans from mega man 2 showing up in zero 4. Also, the flying helicopter aircraft’s in this series such as the dragonfly mechs fefnir pops out of in 1 and show up as minibosses later, or the ladybug ships you hop across in zero 2, are a reference to the franchises tradition of having insect themed flying crafts, starting with the bumblebee mechs in x1’s into, or the fruit fly variants from X3’s opening. Loved this video as it’s nice to see someone else dive into all the fun references this series has!

[@PinBBro]

Homages* darn it

[@PrimeShiem]

I didn't even realize, and honestly I'm kinda mad and disappointed at myself for not thibk of really any of this.

[@PinBBro]

NAH don’t be! This series has so many little bits and secrets even I’m still discovering myself to this day so it’s completely justifiable you didn’t get to all of them in this video, I didn’t even know of some like the e readers or the remixes of x tracks

[@Crystal_Shards]

I think that Omega's attack in which he is protected is the one from scratch in X8

[@PrimeShiem]

The one he gets from Optic Sunflower? That could be true.

[@cristiandobrota8370]

​@@PrimeShiem Yeah, that's obviously Tenshouha from X8.

[@MechanicalRabbits]

Megaman Zero 3 came out in April 2004, and Megaman X8 came out later on December that year. They couldn't have referenced a game that hadn't even finished developing yet.

[@demi-femme4821]

You're right that it resembles Tenshouha more than it does Rekkouha, but it is supposed to be Rekkouha.

[@BalanceHeroSMT]

What's interesting with Phoenix Maginion's special attack with grabbing Zero and summoning the 'ghosts' of his enemies from the X series to attack him, Vile being among them. Disregarding Vile's appearance in X8 since it was released after Zero 2, Vile in X3, after defeating him in Doppler's lab, vowed to X that he'll haunt him till the day he dies. Zero 2 is when X's body was destroyed and leaving X as a Cyber Elf little time to remain in the physical world before his energy ran out, Vile stayed true to his word.

[@PrimeShiem]

Honestly, Vile's real for that. Stuck to his word.

[@The-Zer0th-Law]

Actually, if you think about.... Z2's "Departure", Z4's "Esperanto", Z4's "Holy Land", Z4's "Freesia" and "Promise - Next New World" are ALL related to Iris' battle theme.

[@TheRealRockMan87]

I've been waiting for so long

[@PrimeShiem]

Hope this didn't disappoint!

[@TheRealRockMan87]

not at all @@PrimeShiem

[@AlmarAZL9S]

I'm glad videos like this get made because I only know a few of these references yet there was SO MANY of them shown in this video! 👍

[@PrimeShiem]

Yup, that's why i like making them!

[@jordongutierrez1219]

Since you brought up music cues in Zero 3 you did miss two of them. The desert level play remix of an ending song of zero 1 and intro of Zero 2. The Neo Arcadia level where you fight Copy X has a remix of the final level of Zero 1 and the midway level of Zero 2. Speaking of the Latter; the first part of the level shows a screen in the background that has zero’s silhouette with “Warning” and the omega symbol. Might’ve been foreshadowing or maybe not but it’s Neat!

[@TheLordsynfel]

zero 4 final speech not only references the question from x4 it also makes references to many dialogues that zero has with x when reassurring him

[@natesaibot]

Awesome vid. I've been a die-hard Mega Man fan since 1992 and something about these Easter eggs gives me chills, as corny as it sounds. I adore this entire franchise so much and almost every incarnation of Mega Man played a special part in my childhood, so seeing these things referenced hits me in the feels in a weird way.

[@PrimeShiem]

I know exactly what you mean. While I am on the younger side, seeing these references is like a mix of excitement and surprise. It's awesome to see these games reference their legacy.

[@Omar_ZX]

4:56 actually it was also in mega man x3 ps1's intro cutscene

[@darshio8307]

Omg, i never noticed the leifmotifs of the songs in mz4, they are pretty cool

[@skunkface_]

Herculious Anchus (red) and Gravity Beetle (blue) are both Hercules beetles, while Kuwagust Anchus (blue) and Boomer Kuwanger (red) are stag beetles. Stag beetles rivaling Hercules beetles is a common motif in Japanese folklore. Another modern example of this is in Pokemon; Pinsir is a stag beetle while Heracross is a Hercules beetle.

[@PrimeShiem]

I actually never knew that. Japan has some really cool folklore, myths, and legends, which they clearly show love to with their media.

[@Josh-qt5zi]

@PrimeShiem they are also loosely based on the Japanese gods Raijin and Fujin with Herculious begin Raijin with electric base attack and kuwagust begin Fujin with wind focus attack sidenote wind boss are considered electric type in this series

[@Josh-qt5zi]

Also they follow the red oni and blue oni troops it especially common with the beetle brothers

[@burner555]

>modern example >Heracross debuted in 1999 >Pinsir debuted in 1996

[@Hikaru0kamiki]

There is another thing in megaman x7 the anteater makes a reference to megaman zero if your play as zero. Snipe Anteater said. Blue - lies that infested the earth *copy X* Red - those destroyed or sealed away *omega*

[@mohdadeeb1829]

You forgot to add 12:50 this section is a reference to Burn DinoRex's stage.

[@PrimeShiem]

Maybe I forgot that for a good reason.

[@mohdadeeb1829]

@@PrimeShiem And the reason being?

[@PrimeShiem]

@mohdadeeb1829 The level is pretty annoying, especially when Alia talks when the Lava is coming, forcing your death.

[@mohdadeeb1829]

@@PrimeShiem Make a "What if Mega Man 1-10 Rms had Gears?"

[@LordMetalSonic1987]

Also, the Tellybomb enemies from Z2 & Z4 are based on the Telly spybots from Classic Mega Man.

[@PrimeShiem]

I didn't even realize the Tellybombs were just a bomb version of the Telly's till reading the comments.

[@Hei_Darkfire]

I never noticed some of these. Specifically the similar music tracks. I also never noticed that Repliforce logo.

[@PrimeShiem]

I'm happy that I wad able to show you some new stuff!

[@yuuyakizami2133]

The saddest thing about the answer to that infamous X4 question. When Zero answered it, he doesn't remember Iris.

[@javiervasquez625]

He does remember her in the official song _"Clover"_ where he outright mentions a "flower" which he cannot let go yet feels he should in favor of a new flower which is blooming (the titular clover). You should look it up for it's genuinely emotional while also informative of Zero's inner thoughts over the course of the Zero Saga.

[@PrimeShiem]

Not only as @javiervasquez625 described, but Inafune also confirmed that by the time of Zero 4, he remembered the entire X Series.

[@dredahalomaster1]

I know MNS made a remix of Straight Ahead with the Sigma Fortress 1 being the introduction to the melody. I knew I wasn't tripping when I thought of the same thing hearing both at the same time

[@The_Dim_Vanced]

The attack where Omega summons a pillar of light is called Tenkouha I think

[@PrimeShiem]

X8 wasn't released at the time, which is why I aint mention it, but it does look more similar to Tenkouha.

[@AquilusDesign]

Amazing video, some of these went straight past me completely during my two playthroughs of the Zero series, and this is coming from a hardcore Mega Man X fan and Mega Man fan in general

[@PrimeShiem]

Thank you, as i'm learning from the comments, a lot of references flew me as well.

[@emequaza5537]

Zero 3 has some more references. First, Copy X's stage in both Zero 1 and Zero3 are in an orbital elevator, a reference to X8 or Command Mission. While Zero 1 released before Command mission and Zero 3 before X8, the idea that these stages are orbital elevators was first introduced in a soundtrack released a month after Zero 3, so it's very likely that at least Zero 3's Copy X stage was referencing Jakob and Babel. Also in one part of Zero 3's tower, we can see other orbital elevators in the backgrouns. Neat! Also not sure if this was X8 referencing Zero 3 or the opposite, but in X8 we fight Sigma and Lumine in a throne room full of pillars, while in Zero 3 Copy X is also fought in a throne room with pillars. I don't think that's a coincidence considering it's in the same stage as orbital elevator in Zero 3. Lastly, Eight Gentle Judges transform from humanoid to monster forms, kind of like New Gen Reploids from X8.

[@PrimeShiem]

Now that you mention it, in Zero 2, there's a large tower that resembles the Jakob Elevator in the middle mission of the game. Maybe that was some foreshadowing?

[@dprototype6431]

I found another one: The Rainbow Devil has an attack similar to Mercury from MMW5.

[@kengamezph3509]

Why you should olay megaman zero 1. The lore 2. The story 3. Ciel 4. Boss fights 5. The combat 6. The style and design

[@brandonwilliams6119]

There’s so many very cool references it’s amazing how many they were able to cram into these games, the Jackson Elf in Zero 1 I never knew about, and its so crazy how you have to go through all the trouble just to get it, totally not worth it. The E-Reader Easter Eggs are all great but the coolest one has to be Phoenix Magnion’s except the only way to see it is to get grabbed by his swooping attack, Bit not having a shield in X3 was always weird since the X5 intro and the Zero 2 Easter Egg depicts him with one.

[@PrimeShiem]

Yeah, the Phoenix Magnion attack is probably by far the coolest reference in the Zero series, and honestly, one of the coolest call backs in the franchise as a whole.

[@Kozmo-Kamuy]

Zero takes place after X5 X6 reroute the ending of X5 leading to X7 and 8

[@asteroidrules]

I always found the Legends reference in Zero 2 particularly interesting because Legends nominally takes place *after* Zero. Originally the two didn't necessarily even take place in the same timeline as X5's different endings lead to either Zero, Legends, or X6, but starting with Zero 2 they began to imply that X6-8 still happened before Zero, and Legends still happens after it. This is technically still completely plausible since Zero takes place at least one hundred years after X5, while X6 takes place shortly after it, and Legends is several thousand years later.

[@PrimeShiem]

Yeah, this has always been one of my favorite references in the franchise, and the implications behind it has always made it so interesting to me.

[@sebastiantrevino9121]

Thank you very much for this video. I only recognized a handful of these references when I played all 4 games.

[@PrimeShiem]

No problem. Thank you for watching!

[@slaterock4612]

In Zero 3, Area X-2 at the beginning you see schematics or diagrams of Zero and at the bottom says "Dr. W Last No. Zero." Although the "W" is a little weird the way it's displayed, but it obviously references Wily. Sidenote, the Japanese version of MMX2 after defeating Wireframe Sigma makes a reference too, "But, Zero, why…he’s…the last of…Wi…num…ers…" Also, in the final battle with Omega, you can see a "W" behind the giant Zero's head from Omega's second Transformation, a throwback to Wily.

[@MortimurGrimm]

Thanks for this video. Most I knew of already since I’m a diehard MegaMan fan, but some I didn’t know of. Well done!

[@PrimeShiem]

No problem, and thanks!

[@Slimeballer21]

When you were talking about the ceratanium reference you forgot the fact that hard man is made solely out of ceratanium

[@PrimeShiem]

Honestly, Hard Man would've made for a good example.

[@lionelplayerone]

Upon encountering Hel the Giant in MMZZ4 he says " I remember you!" or "Zero? what are you doing here!?"

[@chimericalical]

The very first section of the very first game is where zero was stored away in the ending for X6 where they stored him away.

[@elrichardo1337]

wow evidently there's a lot more to these games than i thought i knew lmao

[@MetalFalcon99]

It would be funny if Jackson was a remnant of sting chameleon that some how became a cyber elf

[@PrimeShiem]

Seeing as reploids live in Cyberspace after death, it could be possible.

[@ichduhernz]

Amazing references, i love the video!

[@PrimeShiem]

Thank you! im glad you enjoyed it!

[@uandresbrito5685]

Are these track references confirmed? I never noticed any of them. X5 Ending and Esperanto actually look very similar, but I don't think the rest are references. Even Hell's Gate Open and Express UG don't look similar to me. A more clear reference to Sigma would be the Remastered version of Enemy Hall from Zero 1. Intro is literally Sigma 4 from X1

[@PrimeShiem]

I know that Sub Arcadias theme us a remix of Express UG (it's honestly easier to hear comparing the songs beggining) The Iris motif in both Esperanto and Holy Land was something I was listening for, and I could truthfully barely hear it. Yet I've seen multiple people say that they could hear it.

[@SongShiyu]

​@@PrimeShiemI didn't hear it in the pass till your video, then I finally got what ppl were talking about. For the sigma one, it's hard to hear since the reference is really really in the background instruments.

[@forteexe1335]

you miss 1 more thing. Faling Down it's remix - Zero Awakening theme from Zero 1 =) And yea you missed Sigma Virus from Zero 1

[@DontKnowDontCare6.9]

Here are some you missed: A)Tretista Kelverian is basically a reimagined fight with Guts Man. He throws boxes (that drop from above, just like GutsMan's boulders) and his Punishment Form is even similar to Guts Man. Pay attention to his jaw. B)An explosive version of Telly appears in the MegaMan Zero series, notably in Area X intro stage in Zero 4. C)Copy X's Dash is a slide, referencing Vanilla MegaMan's own slide. D)Ragnarok is similar to Repliforce Final Weapon in function and appearance (when spread out). The Final Weapon even has a Death Seed Cannon, just like Ragnarok. E)Weil's final attempt at dropping the Ragnarok back to Earth is a reference to the Space Colony crashing in MegaMan X5. F)Fenri Lunaedge is similar to Blizzard Wolfang, in that they're both wolves and use ice as their element. For reference X6 was released in 2001, Zero 4 in 2005. G)Phoenix Magnion's attack ressurecting dead mavericks is similar to Metal Shark Player's junk clones. H)Another X6 boss probably inspired Phoenix Magnion: Blaze Heatnix. They have similar dash attacks across the screen. I)Copy X in Zero 3 has a Reflect Laser similar to the Gemini Laser from MM3. J)The teleport Stage Boss is a reference to Rangda Bangda who appears in X1 and X5 "castle stages". Its name? Randam Bandam. They both use background elements to attack the player. K)The fight against Kuwagust Anchus is a reference to the first battle against Storm Eagle, in that theyre both fought atop a flying base. He even has his own version of Storm Tornado that doesnt do any damage, but simply push you away.

[@PrimeShiem]

I didn't even realize that the Tellybomb was a reference to the Telly's. and that actually make perfect sense with how they act. I forgot to mention Copy X's slide and this comment just made me realize that. I forgot Final Weapon also existed. These are all pretty cool things that I sadly missed.

[@DontKnowDontCare6.9]

You can always make an update video years later. I also left out some things.. Which had been brewing in my mind for several years now.

[@hesactuallycalledvava5487]

Freesia is kinda a combo of Esperanto and Holy Land, but with added vocals.

[@EvmationsYT]

Another amazing video :)

[@PrimeShiem]

Thank you so much, I'm glad you thought as much!

[@AngelopsX]

Now that I'm playing Z3, the highway in the background at the start of the old residential area looks similar to X1's intro stage.

[@mohdadeeb1829]

1:25 Mega Man 3

[@PrimeShiem]

You're thinking of the Metall DX, which doesn't have the guns as legs.

[@BrotherMicheal]

14:09 - 14:14 if i remember right in the Japanese version, Zero also said that line at the ending of Zero 1 right after Cyber Elf X leave the scene.

[@jerppursh7570]

Great video. Honestly, some of the music references felt like a liiitle bit of a stretch but that doesn't hurt the video or anything.

[@PrimeShiem]

Thank you! Honestly, the only one I'm really not too confident about is Iris's battle theme, as I listened to both songs for an hour. And I'm pretty sure Straight Ahead sounding like Sigma palace 1 is more of a coincidence than anything.

[@monsutaman1]

6:52 reminds me of the trash stage from MMX6

[@thepuppet3000]

another great video good work my man!

[@PrimeShiem]

Thank you! hopefully Theres many more to come!

[@TheExcarlos]

They don't make games like these no more. You can tell how much they loved the games

[@DontKnowDontCare6.9]

Additional references: A)If you noticed, the Einherjar have more colorful designs than the other Mutos Reploids in Zero 1 to 3. This is a reference to the very colorful palette of the Mavericks in the X series. Which is probably why Pegasolta referenced the Maverick Wars... IntiCreates is doing the X series in the Zero universe, complete with their own version of Final Weapon and Eurasia colony (Ragnarok as space cannon, and later a crashing space base). B)The Zero Knuckle ability to grab cables is a reference to the new ability introduced in X5. C)Copy X's charged shots also reference other MMX weapons: Charged Copy X-Buster: based on X2 charged shot Charged elec shot: slower version of charged Triad Thunder Charged fire shot: Rising Flame Charged ice Shot: Storm Tornado (with ice particles) D)Copy X's barrage of 3 smaller shots reference the Stock Shot from X4. The Arm Upgrade almost no one uses. E)The fight with Copy X in his Armed Phenomena (2nd form) in Zero 1 is similar to how you fight Wolf Sigma (final boss) in X1: you have to use the "platforms" he provides to hit his head. F)Heat Genblem's Particle Cannon Stage is similar to Mattrex's stage in the scorching flames area. Except that the particle cannon stage obliterates everything from right to left. G)Zero's Z-Saber wave attack from the X games return in Zero 3 and 4, in the form of EX attacks: Throw Blade and Ice Blade. Kougenjin from Zero 2 doesn't count as it's short-ranged. H)The creation of Neo Arcadia was actually referenced in X's ending in X5. I)The Z-Saber Cyber Elf X gives you in Zero 1 when you rescue Ciel from the Golem is probably the same Saber Zero left in the X5 ending that X uses in X6. Meaning it finally returned to its original owner. J)When Copy X heals himself with 1 full life bar in his first form in Zero 1, he's probably using an E-Tank. K)Triple Shot in Zero 2 is similar to Chameleon Sting. Spark Shot meanwhile is similar to E. Spark of Spark Mandrill. L)The EX Skill from Zero 4 Time Stopper has the same name as FlashMan's weapon and has the same function albeit in a more limited scale. M)Lorewise, Burble Hekelot and Hyleg Ourobuckle doesn't get along well. Similar to how ToadMan dislikes SnakeMan.

[@train4292]

Didn’t X actually build Elysium from Legends 2 instead of Neo Arcadia?

[@DontKnowDontCare6.9]

MegaMan Legends games are set a 1000 years in the future from Vanilla MegaMan timeline... Elysium was built by The Master (the last pure human). MegaMan X is immediately followed by MegaMan Zero (a hundred years from X games). Where a copy of himself rules the city he built, Neo Arcadia.

[@train4292]

@@DontKnowDontCare6.9 But in the bad ending of X5 it specifically mentioned Elysium though.

[@DontKnowDontCare6.9]

Yep correct. But remember: this was during the X timeline. Elysium and Arcadia have the same meaning. Its either: A)X decided to change the name of his dream nation after several years, or B)The developers simply referenced MM Legends. MM Zero and the GBA hadnt been released this time.

[@matthewmondragon2074]

And I remember two things from Zero 3, both are battle of Omega, and one of Zero 1: The first one is of you look at the part of the lab Zero was, X and Zero look like heads and a piece of the gigant Omega was, seems like Dr. Willy's "W" sign. The second was in fact Omega was intended to be a MMZ version of MMX Zero, but due GBA limitations ended as a recolored Zero (but still make emphasys in lore). And the third is as I know, looking at Zero files from the .gba, there's a X vs Zero ost but as GBA, but was replaced to Fake.

[@PrimeShiem]

Ok, I missed the W during the fight (I wrote it in the script, but forgot it.) But the last fact is completely new to me, that's awesome.

[@falconheavy0533]

You’d think that the zero games were made by the same developers of the other mega man games with how many deep cut references they put in. Only people with extensive knowledge and experience with the franchise could include so many nods that most casual players wouldn’t notice even on several playthroughs.

[@PrimeShiem]

Same goes with ZX as well, genuinely crazy how much small nods are in Inti Creates Mega Man games.

[@MakotoYuichi01]

Omega Zero from Megaman Zero 3 is what Dr Wily wished to happen in the Megaman X Series instead Dr. Weil himself complete it by combining Zero's Original body and Omega's mind by turning into Awakened Zero from Megaman X5 but Megaman Zero Megaman Zero 4 Einherjar Eight Warrior Bosses are very similar to Megaman X5 Maverick Bosses as you can see how similar they are - Heat Genblem = Burn Dinorex (Some of the pattern of its attack) - Tech Kraken = Volt Kraken - Pegasolta Eclair = Spiral Pegasus - Noble Mandrago = Spike Rosered (The plant thingy) - Sol Titanion = Shining Firefly - Fenri Lunaedge = Tidal Whale (Ice Elemental) - Mino Magnus = Crescent Grizzly - Popla Cocapetri = Dark Necrobat (Time Stop) The Ship from Megaman Zero 1 and Spike Crusher from Megaman Zero 2 are referencing to Metal Shark Player Stage from Megaman X6 If you play Hellbat Schilt stage from Megaman Zero 3, You can see Anubis Necromancer from Megaman Zero is body on repair but if you replay Hellbat Schilt stage again, Anubis himself gone due to he is already repaired completely and will be refight again in the Sand area once again Area Zero from Megaman Zero 4 is the same area location to the Final Stage of Megaman X5 called "Zero Space". This is because of Nature comes back after hundred years have passed Spike Rosered from Megaman X5 mentioned to Zero he will see every mavericks that died because of him and X come back again in Cyberspace which this references how later Zero encounters Hidden Phantom from Megaman Zero 3, Fight against those who already died in Cyberspace.

[@loyalcav1575]

In MMZ1 the final boss theme "Fake" had a high pitched version of the maverick theme of X1 in the background of the main melody

[@PrimeShiem]

I can kinda hear it now.

[@loyalcav1575]

@@PrimeShiem Same experience I had, saw a youtube comment pointing it out and decided to listen more to it. Now its plain as day for me.

[@irregularmana6216]

Man... I think I'm gonna buy the collection. Because I only played these a little bit as I didn't have a gba nor the games, I just borrowed them from friends

[@PrimeShiem]

If you like the X Series you'll most likely enjoy the games!

[@professor_turo_chadwick]

8:21 pretty nice easter-egg

[@TheVoltDenatsu]

At 4:20 those blocks are found in the same level as blast hornets in MegaMan x2, the area is seen by the X Hunters as their hideout in cutscenes, and of course in Legends it's the Ruins.

[@TheVoltDenatsu]

Also wanted to point out, I actually think that these blocks were in the original MegaMan somewhere. Most of Wily's bots had definite eyes on them, and I think the "eyes" on zeros chest plates were his cameras.

[@Pefonmo]

9:17 Considering that you get this easter egg from Hidden Phantom's card and that Zero comments "it's calling me from cyberspace", it's more likely the Cyber Elf is not Elpizo, but Phantom himself! Remember, you can encounter Phantom in Zero 3 as secret boss in Cyberspace.

[@PrimeShiem]

Yeah I meant to clarify that the Elf from the Phantom card was him, but I did a poor job at it.

[@maciejcocieto4361]

In Mega Man Zero 3 (and also in 4) there is an enemy called Shotloid, he resembles Shotman enemy from original Mega Man 2. It's the round robot with legs, big eyes and cannon

[@PrimeShiem]

Man, it's crazy how many things yall find before me.

[@IMANZERO-xs5xs]

Someone may have already mentioned this but in the Rockman Zero Remastered Tracks version of Enemy Hall (which is technically the original composition) they use Sigma Palace Stage 4's theme at the beginning and somewhat throughout

[@PrimeShiem]

I didn't know that was the original composition, thats interesting!

[@IMANZERO-xs5xs]

@@PrimeShiem all the remastered tracks are the originals even though the name suggests the opposite. Ita-shin one of the composers of zero 4 has a video on his KZbin channel of a version of falling down dated 2004/12/8 and is the rt version missing a bit of instrumentals as that is the part that is remastered so i'd assume they did a similar thing with the other games

[@alanbrito141]

The way those battle network enemies die in zero 3 remind me of those spheres from x4 cyberspace

[@PrimeShiem]

You're right. They do die in a similar way.

[@jruler93]

In Zero 4's crafting system, you don't need Ceratanium for the Double Jump, just for S-Crystals and Body Chips (like Rolling or Strongest). Double Jump is made with C-Hopper, Faital, GangaGun and GyroCannonH.

[@foolishlyfoolishfool5747]

There’s actually more music references to Esperanto that stem from X5 than what you mentioned. The beginning of the track (0:00 - 0:07) bears a striking resemblance to Zero’s Opening Stage Theme from X5. And the Holy Land/Area Zero Base Theme is a slower version of Esperanto, so the Iris Battle Theme sampled in there is also in Esperanto (it first plays at the 0:39 - 0:52 mark of Esperanto). So Esperanto loops three different tracks from the X series. X5 Intro Stage (Zero) -> X5 Credits Theme -> Iris Battle Theme Which makes sense as X5 and Z4 mirror each other story-wise. Both have Zero die trying to stop a space colony from destroying Earth. In X5’s ending (if you play as Zero), the player sees Zero’s last thoughts are of Iris. In Z4’s ending, the player sees Ciel’s praying for Zero in his final moments. And Freesia (Zero 4 credits theme) is Esperanto but with lyrics sung from Ciel’s VA. Seriously, Esperanto is my favorite ost in the Zero series because of how much weight it holds from the X and Zero series. It even carries that emotional “beginning of the end” feeling without the context of X5.

[@PrimeShiem]

Esperanto is by far one of the stand out themes of the Zero series, and I love how it ties the X series into the Zero series. -shame I brought up Zero's X5 intro theme on the iceberg and not this-

[@shelbybayer200]

The Reaverbot eyes is actually a Continuity nod The Zero series happens than ZX than finally ending the Robotics Timeline with Legends The Battle Network games are their own timeline ending with StarForce

[@BMALCINE364]

Wowie! Thats a lot of easter eggs Gotta say, Zero is a pretty good series, right alongside classic and X for me. Also, i wonder something, not sure if this counts as an easter egg, but I'm gonna say it anyway... Perhaps Dr. Weil is a reference to Dr Wily of the classic series, both are old doctors, both want to conquer the world, each being mad scientists building bad robots and in the end, get defeated by a robot, ironically the same thing said doctors use to their advantage for evil purposes. I am aware both are different characters, but i don't think it can be denied there are some similarities between Weil and Wily. This also makes Zero 4's ending all the more powerful and satisfying, finally ridding the world of the chaos and insanity Wily, Sigma, and now Weil have plagued this world with, and letting heroes of yesteryear-XX finally resting after mission complete Sorry if i went on for a while, but yeah! Great video bud, keep it up!!!

[@javiervasquez625]

I think of "Dr. Vile" (his true name in Japan) as a _successor_ of Wily similarly to how Ciel and her ancestors who created the Mother Elf are the successors of Light. They all follow in the footsteps of previous robot scientists who's ideals and goals affected the very future of Humanity courtesy of their ambitions as to what they could accomplish in their field of robotics.

[@PrimeShiem]

Your completely fine, and thank you! Yeah, Dr. Weil is most definitely the Zero Series stand in for Wily.