3.5/5 ★ – JetDusk's review of Mega Man Battle Network 3 Blue.

*To start, play this over Battle Network White. It’s not a case of the same game but they’re slightly different, Blue is just the improved version of Battle Network 3. I can’t say for sure since I only played Blue, but that’s what the majority of fans on the internet say. Definitely the best of the games so far. Sadly, it’s mostly for the writing and story being a lot better, while the gameplay improves (and DETRACTS) in a lot of ways. To start with, my impressions were favorable. Sure, Lan threw all his good cards away AGAIN, but I will just have to accept that (explaining it each game would be enough). The first dungeon was simple, encounters weren’t too high, and it was a solid start to the game. The first few chapters are the highlight of the series for me at this point. In terms of new gameplay additions, a lot of good choices. Now you get multiple rewards for winning fights, colored pathways to help find your way better in the Net, and introducing important mechanics over time, such as the styles. In terms of visuals, the backgrounds have a lot of interesting details and witty dialogue. You see mounds of animal shit in this game. The writing is especially improved for this entry. Despite the constant danger these children find themselves in (animal attacks, fires, tanks), they still find room to say things I found genuinely funny and engaging. Lan and his friends are getting development that actually makes me like them as opposed to just indifference. This game also finds a way to make BN2 seem important, which I appreciated. However. While this game is overall better than the other two, it has multiple chapters and dungeons that are just TERRIBLE. There is so much backtracking, and the areas get so big and confusing I practically had a guide the whole damn game after the Zoo. Bubble Man is a herald of the end times for being the WORST. I MEAN IT. Awful design, annoying personality, and a cheap ass boss fight just to blend the perfect shit smoothie. His whole chapter is running around and backtracking. I hate it. I like this game a lot, but I don’t want to play anything after Bubble Man ever again. Flame Man is almost as bad, the Ranking chapter is confusing and bullshit, and a lot of parts require specific chips you can’t just buy. For those of you playing the series, I hope you have a better time than I. I really liked the story this time, but shitty design makes it hard for me to replay especially when it’s long. I recommend you look up some Numberman codes for better chips early on to make things better. Feel free to use the Patch Chips as well, they will help a lot. The final boss is also pretty tough, so make sure you prepare for that.