Although Mega Man games may differ in gameplay quality, each installment in the series boasts exceptional art. Consider Mega Man X Dive, which initially launched as a smartphone game before making its way to Steam in 2023. Despite being a mobile spinoff, its art direction is as robust as any other game featuring the Blue Bomber. As a crossover title, it is brimming with visually stunning characters and remixed designs from the entire franchise. If you're interested in witnessing the dedication of the illustrators and designers who brought this game to life, you can preorder the Mega Man X Dive: Official Complete Works book for $50 before its release on March 25, 2025. This 256-page hardcover book includes character designs, rough concepts, key art, and extensive creator commentary. It also features a series of interviews with the developers, offering insights into the design process of characters like X, Zero, and Axl, as well as newcomers RiCO, iCO, and ViA. Although the English cover has not been revealed, it is expected to mirror the Japanese edition, given that Udon is publishing it. Interestingly, Mega Man artbooks often command high prices on Amazon—the hardcover Mega Man: Complete Works sells for $200, and Mega Man Zero: Official Complete Works for $140—likely due to limited print runs and stock. Therefore, securing a preorder of the X Dive Complete Works is advisable for Mega Man enthusiasts. Note that you won't be charged until the book ships.
For those seeking additional Mega Man reading material, there are several other noteworthy books. You can explore the Mr. Mega Man manga series, which delves into the hero's journey through adulthood. Additionally, there are several manga series with classic storylines, such as Mega Man Mastermix: Robot Rebellion and Mega Man: Gigamix, which align closely with the NES and SNES games. On the art front, consider adding books like Mega Man Tribute and Mega Man Star Force: Official Complete Works to your collection, focusing on the bionic hero and his iconic adversaries. For more Capcom books, the Street Fighter library offers a visually striking selection. The Street Fighter World Warrior Encyclopedia: World Tour Edition, releasing on November 5, is a 224-page book filled with detailed profiles of every Street Fighter character, including their origins, allies, enemies, fighting styles, and more. Other must-have books from this Capcom franchise include anniversary retrospectives, a collection of tribute art from around the world, and even a swimsuit edition, perfect for the approaching summer.
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