Mega Man X8 Script (X's story)

Script from the game Mega Man X8, X's storyline only (see also: Zero's storyline and Axl's storyline).

Scene 1: Prologue
(Scene opens to view a very tall tower with small railcars traveling up and down its sides.)

Narrator: The endless Reploid rebellions continue. Humans, however, have begun migrations to the Moon, thanks to new technology. This plan is called the "Jakob Project", and an Orbital Elevator was built as part of it. Highly advanced new generation Reploids have been brought to the Moon's surface to work.

(The camera zooms in on a certain railcar that starts to spark and shudder on its way down. Suddenly, it breaks off the track with a large explosion and plummets down towards the earth as the game's subtitle is shown, "Paradise Lost".)

Scene 2: The New Generation
(Scene fades in again with the wreckage of the railcar burning on the ground.)

Announcer: There has been an accident on board the No. 4 descending container. All personnel...

(X stands near the flames, speaking into his communicator.)

X: This is X. I've encountered an accident while on patrol of the Orbital Elevator. Dispatch rescue Mechaniloids immediately!

(X stops and looks up in shock as a large group of Reploids that all look like Sigma suddenly push aside a piece of metal and exit the ruined vehicle.)

X: Si... Sigma!?

(The Sigmas stare at X, who prepares to fight them, but they then step aside to reveal another Reploid.)

???: To protect ourselves from damage during the accident, we had to copy a sturdy Sigma Body. We new generation Reploids enjoy complete and total immunity to all viruses... So even copying something as dangerous as Sigma provides no risk.

(As the stranger speaks, the Reploids around him glow white and shift back to their normal forms. X reluctantly relaxes.)

X: Who are you?

Lumine: I'm Lumine. I'm the director in charge of the Elevator, and of the Jakob Project.

(X stares at Lumine as the scene fades out.)

Scene 3: Crabs-Y
Computer: Warning! Warning!

(Scene cuts to the Hunter Base.)

Alia: I'm picking up Maverick readings near the Jakob facility! All Hunters near Point Galapagos, please dispatch immediately!

X: Roger!

(X and Axl teleport to the Noah's Park area in the middle of a dense jungle. Alia contacts them again.)

Alia: X... This new Maverick... It's pattern is very unusual. I'd like to do some research on it, so try to pick up plenty of samples.

X: Got it. OK, Axl, let's get going!

Axl: Ready when you are, X.

Alia: When you need Axl's help, call him in with a Character Change.

Axl: Better watch out, X. I might just steal your spotlight.

Alia: You two be careful. I'll send Zero over later to give you a hand.

(X encounters a strange capsule. As he approaches, a hologram of Dr. Light appears.)

Dr. Light: X... I thought something like this might happen someday, so I've prepared parts for you. First, I'll give you the Neutral Armor. You can power up this armor by adding parts to it. I have new parts for you... They're Buster Parts I. Equip this part, and you'll gain the ability to perform new kinds of Charge Attacks. Equip this new ability and board the capsule, X.

(X steps into the capsule and receives the upgrade.)

Dr. Light: I hope this is the last time we need to use weapons of war like this, X. I really do.

(The hologram dissipates and the capsule closes.)

(X continues through the forest until he encounters a large red Mechaniloid, Crabs-Y. Alia contacts him.)

Alia: X! Axl! I've examined the data on that Maverick. Looks like it grabs its opponents and immobilizes them. If you're grabbed by the enemy, call for a Tag Assist and help is on the way!

(X fights and defeats the Mechaniloid before moving on.)

X: Alia... I got a sample of that Maverick for you.

Alia: I'd like to start analyzing it right away. Bring it to me as soon as you can!

X: Roger. I'm on my way. Axl, I'm counting on you to clean up here.

Axl: No problem, X! This'll be a snap.

(The player takes control of Axl, who continues on until he gets to a large pit.)

Alia: Axl, it looks like you'll need to hover over from the edge to continue onward. To hover, press the jump button again and hold it while in mid-air.

(Axl continues through the area until he finds Zero.)

Zero: Axl, pick up the pace! This is no time to slack off!

Axl: You show up late and have the nerve to complain? I can more than handle a few Mavericks all by myself anyway.

Zero: That's the spirit! Let's move!

(Zero and Axl soon encounter Crabs-Y again and engage it in battle. During the fight, the Attack Gauge fills up completely.)

Alia: Now, you two! The Attack Gauge is full! You can use the Double Attack! It's an ultra-powerful combo! Time it carefully!

(Axl and Zero together destroy the Mechaniloid.)

Axl: Ha! Piece of cake! Snagged a sample from that Maverick, too!

Zero: Nice work! Now take it and head back, Axl.

Axl: OK! I'll leave the rest up to you.

(The player takes control of Zero, who continues through the area until he finds a tall wall.)

Alia: It looks like the entrance to that building is above you. Use the Double Jump to get up there.

(Zero climbs the wall and finds X again.)

X: Sorry to keep you waiting, Zero. How've you been holding up?

Zero: Barely broke a sweat... C'mon! Let's go!

(Alia contacts X.)

Alia: I've completed my analysis of enemies who use protective barriers! They can completely defend against normal attacks, but you can break their barriers. X's full Charge Shot does the trick, as does Zero's third hit in a combo... And Axl can break barriers with repeated concentrated shots.

(X and Zero meet again inside the hallway.)

Alia: X, Zero... Can you hear me? That Maverick's signal is getting really close now. According to my analysis, the Double Attack should work best on this Maverick. When the Attack Gauge is full, use the Double Attack!

(X and Zero defeat the Maverick once and for all.)

Scene 4: An Old Friend
(X, Zero, and Axl step forward to warp out, but are knocked backward by a sudden barrage of missiles. When the smoke clears, X looks up to see Vile standing on top of a wall.)

Vile: How nice to see you again, X!

X: Vile!?

(Axl looks at Zero, confused. Zero explains to him who Vile is.)

Zero: He used to be a Class A Hunter, but now he's our sworn enemy! He's a Maverick and a wanted criminal.

(Vile chuckles as he listens to Zero's description.)

Vile: I'd love to stay and play, boys, but I'm afraid have too much work to do.

(Vile gestures to a large machine behind him that is holding an unconscious Lumine captive.)

X: Lumine!?

Vile: That's right. The Orbital Elevator is under our control now.

X: Just what do you plan to do?!

Vile: It begins now, X. A new world will be born! Ha ha ha ha!

(Vile flies away with Lumine in tow before the Hunters can catch him. X, Zero, and Axl return to the Base.)

If X returns to this area to look for items
Alia: Looks like there's a ledge above you. If you jump high enough, you can reach it.

(X finds a piece of Rare Metal.)

Alia: You found a rare Metal! With it, you can make a new Chip! Be sure to stop by the lab when you get back to the Hunter Base.

Scene 5: The New Operators
(When the three Hunters return to base, Alia speaks to them about the situation.)

Alia: They're after Lumine, the director of the facility. If that's the case... Then the ultimate goal must be control of the Orbital Elevator.

X: I don't know what the deal is, but Vile kept talking about some new world beginning.

Alia: They must be up to something big... Oh!

(Alia's computer suddenly picks up several Maverick readings.)

Alia: I'm picking up a Maverick reading!

(X views the Mavericks' data, then chooses either Zero or Axl to accompany him on the mission.)

Alia: Let me introduce your new navigators...

(One of the new Navigators speaks.)

Layer: Nice to meet you, Hunters. My name is Layer. My specialty is analyzing enemy abilities. I hope I can be of use.

(The other Navigator speaks.)

Pallette: Hi! I'm Pallette. I'm good at analyzing routes through stages.

Alia: I don't suppose I need to say it, but I - Alia - will also assist in navigation. Before you head into battle, be sure to choose a navigator to assist you. Of course, if you're feeling confident, you can always choose to go it solo.

Scene 6: Troia Base
(X teleports to the beginning of the Troia Base area and Alia contacts him.)

Alia: You'll have to complete training sessions for each area in order to move on. The next area may change depending on how well you've completed the previous one.

(X continues for a short ways and Alia contacts him again.)

Alia: The training area will adjust its difficulty based on the scores you've received. The enemies that appear in this mode will also become stronger as you get better.

(X encounters another Light Capsule.)

Dr. Light: X... I thought something like this might happen someday, so I've prepared parts for you. Give these a try. They're Buster Parts H. Equip this part, and you'll gain the ability to perform new kinds of Charge Attacks. Equip this new ability and board the capsule, X.

(X steps inside the capsule and receives the upgrades.)

Dr. Light: I hope this is the last time we need to use weapons of war like this, X. I really do.

(The hologram dissipates and the capsule closes.)

(X fights through the rest of the Base and Alia contacts him near the end of the area if the game is being played in either Normal or Hard mode.)

Alia: I have some important info, everyone! Unknown data has been downloaded from the outside! It's titled "CM." I wonder what it could mean?

(X enters an extra warp and encounters Cut Man as a hidden miniboss. After a brief fight, X defeats Cut Man and exits the warp.)

Alia: I've taken a close look at the area that the target is in, but... I see evidence of the shape having been changed many times by the program in charge. The target itself likely possesses the ability to alter proportional features.

(X goes through the boss door and encounters Optic Sunflower.)

If X has not defeated four Mavericks
Optic Sunflower: A Maverick Hunter!? Here!? Who in the world are you? Why are you here? Who am I?

X: He's gone totally berserk. We've got to stop him!

Optic Sunflower: Berserk? I don't think so. We may not be the good guys, but we're no monsters. No one has a right to put a stop to our plans!

If X has already defeated four Mavericks
Optic Sunflower: X... Since you've made it this far, you must have figured it out. You must have an inkling as to what we're after here.

X: You Mavericks... You're under Sigma's control, aren't you?

Optic Sunflower: No one can control us. You old models cannot even begin to comprehend my master's - OUR - greatness!

(X fights and defeats Optic Sunflower, then teleports back to Base.)

Scene 7: Back at the Base
(When X gets back to the Hunter Base, Signas] gives him a Mission Report.)

(If X got an AAA rank on the mission)

Signas: Congratulations! You are officially the best Maverick Hunter in history!

(X stops by the R&D Lab on his way to the Command Room.)

Pallette: Hello, everyone. Welcome to the laboratory. This is where you can save your progress and develop Chips.

(If X has a Rare Metal from one of the missions.)

Pallette: The Rare Metal you found has been made into a new Chip. Rare Metal contains powerful properties that are perfect for Chip making. If you manage to find a rare Metal, be sure to bring it to the lab as soon as you can.

(X returns to the Command Room.)

Scene 8: It's Begun Again
(X speaks to Alia in the Command Room.)

X: Darn!

Alia: X? What's the matter? The mission's only just begun.

X: That's right... It's begun again... How long must this war go on?

Alia: .........

Axl: Just the thought of wiping the floor with those Mavericks makes my trigger finger itch!

Alia: Axl!

X: No, Alia... Axl's right. There's no time to be wishy-washy here. Even as we speak, Mavericks are causing havoc.

(X decides to choose another mission.)

Scene 9: Pitch Black
Note: If X turns on the lights with the generator, most of Alia's tips regarding the darkness won't appear.

(X teleports to the beginning of the Pitch Black area.)

Alia: Be careful in there! There's an advanced security system in place that will track you. The key to this mission is in skillfully evading detection.

(X continues for a short distance until he finds some security drones.)

Alia: There's more to that security system than just stationary cameras. Drones moving on the ground can be stopped with an attack. Give it a shot!

(X encounters another Light Capsule.) Dr. Light: X... I thought something like this might happen someday, so I've prepared parts for you. Here you are... Head Parts I. With this part equipped, you will cause damage to enemies by jumping near them. Equip this new ability and board the capsule, X.

(X steps into the capsule and receives the upgrade.)

Dr. Light: I hope this is the last time we need to use weapons of war like this, X. I really do.

(The hologram dissipates and the capsule closes.)

(X continues until he reaches a second elevator.)

Alia: There's a passage ahead with its lighting system completely shut off. I am picking up a very faint source of light, though. You'll have to rely on that.

(X clears the area and comes to a door.)

Alia: The target has the ability to move freely in the darkness without restriction. The darker it gets, the more dangerous a foe he becomes. I hope you're ready for this.

(X enters the door and encounters Dark Mantis.)

If X has not defeated four Mavericks
Dark Mantis: Hey! What's a Maverick Hunter doing here?

X: Dark Mantis... You've gone Maverick. I'm putting an end to your weapons production.

Dark Mantis: You've gotta be kidding me. We new generation Reploids can't go Maverick.

X: Then why are you making weapons?

Dark Mantis: Hmpf. Even if I explained, an old style Reploid like you wouldn't understand.

If X has already defeated four Mavericks
Dark Mantis: Hey there, X... Looks like you can't accept the fact that we're not Mavericks.

X: Are you making weapons for Sigma here? Is Sigma controlling you?

Dark Mantis: What exactly is controlling YOU, X? Hm? Your precious "justice"? Is that it?

X: Dark Mantis... Your actions are those of a Maverick!

(X fights and defeats Dark Mantis, then teleports back to Base.)

Scene 10: A Little Crush?
(X and the other Hunters return to Base and find the Navigators waiting for them.)

Layer: Great job, Zero.

Zero: Huh? Oh, thanks.

Pallette: Zero! Have you forgotten already? I'm Pallette. This here is Layer. We're the new navigators here. Don't forget about us!

(Pallette adopts a mischievous tone to her voice.)

Pallette: Layer wanted to talk to you and waited here the whole time for your return. Right, Layer?

Zero: Oh, sorry. Anyway, what is it, Layer?

(Layer looks surprised.)

Layer: Um... I did some research, but I'm unable to determine Lumine's location.

(Layer blushes with embarrassment.)

Layer: Um... Anyway... That's all.

Zero: Hmm. Well, no matter what the Mavericks are up to, looks like I'll have to stop 'em.

Scene 11: Primrose
(X teleports to the beginning of the Primrose area.)

Alia: Looks like there's a gravity control system in place in this facility. You can probably open up new routes by rotating the gravitational pull.

(X moves into the next area.)

Alia: There are blocks around here that are affected by the changes in gravitational pull. You should take note of the position of the blocks and predict the way they'll move. Some enemies can be destroyed by falling blocks, so be sure to use them to your advantage.

(X encounters another Light Capsule.) Dr. Light: X... I thought something like this might happen someday, so I've prepared parts for you. Here you are... Head Parts I. With this part equipped, you will cause damage to enemies by jumping near them. Equip this new ability and board the capsule, X.

(X steps into the capsule and receives the upgrade.)

Dr. Light: I hope this is the last time we need to use weapons of war like this, X. I really do.

(The hologram dissipates and the capsule closes.)

(X continues until he comes to a room with multiple gravity switches.)

Alia: It appears that the gravity manipulation switches operate differently in this room. They should help you find a route to the next area if you get stuck.

(X continues until he comes to a door.)

Alia: I've detected a Maverick signal up ahead. There are no gravity switches in here. But apparently the target has the ability to alter gravity at will. Be careful when gravity is altered. You don't want to get caught up in the chaos.

(X enters the door and encounters Gravity Antonion.)

If X has not defeated four Mavericks
X: You used to be an incredible scientist. What happened? What are you up to?

Gravity Antonion: Incredible scientist? Who are you to say such things? I don't pursue my research just to earn praise from the likes of you.

X: Have you gone Maverick as well?

Gravity Antonion: Maverick? Once again, you attach labels to me. What arrogance! Hmpf. At any rate, if you choose to stand in my way, I'll destroy you!

If X has already defeated four Mavericks
X: Did he... Did Sigma make you go Maverick?

Gravity Antonion: My master is not incorrect in his philosophy.

X: But Sigma plans to bring catastrophe to this world! He's evil!

Gravity Antonion: And the thought that it is this world that is evil has never crossed your mind? Oh, forget it... If you get in my way, I'll destroy you!

(X fights and defeats Gravity Antonion, then teleports back to Base.)

Scene 12: Three Down
(X and the Hunters return to the Base and visit the three Navigators in the Command Room.)

Alia: Phew... That's the third one. But we still don't know what the Mavericks are up to.

Pallette: We still haven't determined exactly why the new generation Reploids are going Maverick.

Layer: I'm running simulators right now, but it looks like their virus resistance is absolute.

Axl: Yeah, I'm a new generation prototype and I can confirm that. I'm immune myself.

Pallette: But if Axl's a prototype, then that means he could go Maverick, too... But maybe since he's a prototype, he'll be OK. Let's analyze his data to be sure.

Axl: What? Hey! I'm no Maverick! Heck, I'm a Maverick Hunter!

Scene 13: Metal Valley
(X teleports to the beginning of the Metal Valley area.)

Alia: The minerals mined here are essential for space development. If you don't put down the rebellion, the Jakob Project could be in danger.

(A giant Mechaniloid, Yellow Brontes, jumps down out of nowhere and starts to pursue X. X eventually is able to lure the Mechaniloid over to a large construction crane and uses it to damage Yellow Brontes, who turns and starts to run in the other direction.)

Alia: I'm picking up a strong signal from a large-scale Mechaniloid there! Chase it down! You have to stop it before it self destructs.

(X chases after Yellow Brontes and follows it inside a warehouse.)

Alia: The Mechaniloid signal is coming from just ahead. Be careful!

(Inside the warehouse, X finds Yellow Brontes and destroys it using another construction crane. He continues to the next room.)

(X encounters another Light Capsule.)

Dr. Light: X... I thought something like this might happen someday, so I've prepared parts for you. This time, I want you to try out Body Parts I. If you equip this, you will take half the damage you normally would. Equip this new ability and board the capsule, X.

[X steps into the capsule and receives the upgrade.]

Dr. Light: I hope this is the last time we need to use weapons of war like this, X. I really do.

(The hologram dissipates and the capsule closes.)

(X continues to the next room.)

ALIA: It looks like the target up ahead is wearing some kind of special armor. The armor is made to deflect shots fired at it, but there must be some way to break it!

(X enters the next door and encounters Earthrock Trilobyte.)

If X has not defeated four Mavericks
Earthrock Trilobyte: The minerals we mine here are essential to the development of space.

X: What do you plan to do with these rare resources?

Earthrock Trilobyte: Even if I explained, I doubt a brainless Maverick Hunter like yourself could understand. I'll bury you old heaps of junk right here!

If X has already defeated four Mavericks
Earthrock Trilobyte: Do you realize that the ore we mine here is used in space development?

X: Sigma... He must be behind this! What does he want with these minerals?

Earthrock Trilobyte: My master... New world... Space resources... Even a decaying pile of scrap like you can guess with that many hints, no?

X: .........

Earthrock Trilobyte: The end of your old world has come!

(X fights and defeats Earthrock Trilobyte, then teleports back to Base.)

Scene 14: Data Analysis
(When X returns to the Base, Alia tells him about her new information.)

Alia: I've completed the analysis of the Maverick data acquired so far. What makes new generation Reploids resistant to viruses is their copy chip. The copy chip can actually change a Reploid's DNA.

Axl: Did you examine my data?

Alia: Yes, I compared your data to the copy chips in new generation Reploids. I found something very interesting.

(Alia types something into her computer, and an image of Sigma appears on the screen.)

X: Sigma!?

Alia: The data embedded in the copy chips closely resembles that of Sigma! I'm not exactly sure what this means, but I'd be lying if I said it didn't worry me...

Scene 15: Dynasty
(X teleports into the beginning of the Dynasty area and boards a Sirius Ride Chaser to chase after his target.)

Alia: Keep the target in your sights as he moves. If you attack it enough, you should be able to stop its rampage.

(X chases nearer to the Maverick and starts to open fire.)

Alia: You've almost caught up to the target! Take him down before you miss your chance!

(After being sufficiently damaged, the Maverick lands on a floating platform. X jumps off his Ride Chaser and confronts him.)

If X has not defeated four Mavericks
X: Gigavolt Man-o-war! Return Megalopolis' energy supply to normal! If you don't, the city will be, destroyed.

Gigabolt Man-O-War: ......... ...............

X: Has the change to Maverick even caused the loss of his speech capabilities?

Gigabolt Man-O-War: I'm no Maverick. Who are you, anyway?

X: I'm X! I'm a Maverick Hunter.

If X has already defeated four Mavericks
X: Gigavolt Man-O-War! Has Sigma made you go Maverick?

Gigabolt Man-O-War: ......... ...............

X: Has the change to Maverick even caused the loss of his speech capabilities?

Gigabolt Man-O-War: I'm no Maverick... I'm not doing anything wrong... I'm working hard to realize my master's dream of a new world.

X: You're Maverick! I'll have to stop you!

(X fights and defeats Gigabolt Man-O-War, then teleports back to the Base.)

Scene 16: Suspicions
(After returning to the Base, X speaks with the others about his suspicions.)

X: Sigma... I've suspected as much ever since Vile showed up.

Alia: Whoever's behind it, they were most certainly after Lumine and the Orbital Elevator. There are some dark forces at work behind the scenes here. I'll continue my analysis.

X: I hope you uncover something.

(X pauses for a moment.)

X: By the way, I noticed a Reploid copying Sigma's body back at the Orbital Elevator. Could that be connected in some way to them going Maverick?

Alia: I doubt it. Theoretically, there's no danger in copying others' bodies. X, you've fought Sigma bodies before, so you know how tough their design is.

X: I suppose all I can do now is continue taking care of the Mavericks and collecting data.

Scene 17: Central White
(X teleports to the beginning of the Central White area and boards a Barius Ride Chaser nearby.)

Alia: There's an emergency at the environmental research center! Who knows what could happen? Go as fast as you can, but watch out for crevasses.

(X fights through the area on his Ride Chaser and soon comes to a long, straight stretch of ice. He is attacked by a large flying Mechaniloid, Ravemanta, and eventually destroys it. X jumps off of the Ride Chaser when he comes to a door. He continues through it to the next room.)

(X encounters another Light Capsule.)

Dr. Light: X... I thought something like this might happen someday, so I've prepared parts for you. This time, I want you to try Head Parts H. This part will increase your weapons' charge speed when equipped. Equip this new ability and board the capsule, X.

(X steps into the capsule and receives the upgrades.)

Dr. Light: I hope this is the last time we need to use weapons of war like this, X. I really do.

(The hologram dissipates and the capsule closes.)

(X comes to a secure door.)

Alia: The target is highly resistant to cold. It can move freely in snow-covered areas. Watch out for sudden movements!

(X enters the door and encounters Avalanche Yeti.)

If X has not defeated four Mavericks
Avalanche Yeti: I will not let you get in our way!

X: Avalanche Yeti! What do you think you're doing?

Avalanche Yeti: You old model Reploids have no business here. Get out of here, X!

X: No way! If we don't repair this system, the world's ecological balance is at risk! You're a Maverick!

If X has already defeated four Mavericks
Avalanche Yeti: You must not stand in the way of our - my master's - ideal!

X: Avalanche Yeti! What is Sigma trying to do?

Avalanche Yeti: My master no longer considers your world to be ideal. We intend to fix things. It's too late, X. You and your puny Maverick Hunters have lost.

(X fights and defeats Avalanche Yeti, then teleports back to Base.)

Scene 18: Down in the Dumps
(Layer speaks to the three Hunters when they return to Base.)

Layer: Good work out there, X. Um.. Zero looks (1) awfully down in the dumps...

X: Oh? Are you worried about him, Layer?

Layer: No... Um... Not really... As an operator, I'm just concerned about the overall welfare of the team. That's all...

X: Zero's been used before by Sigma to create a virus. He's upset that his data was used in an attempt to destroy the world...

Layer: Oh, my... Poor Zero...

X: He shouldn't blame himself. The problem's already been solved anyway. It seems Sigma may be involved in this new threat as well. Zero wants to take care of him for good this time. So do I.

Scene 19: Inferno
(X teleports into the beginning of the Inferno Area.)

Alia: This plant harnesses the heat of a volcano to incinerate garbage. It's a dangerous place, but we have no choice but to put an end to the uprising.

(X continues down into the volcano and sees a large amount of laser generators.)

Alia: From here on in, you'll be up against a battery of lasers. Your best bet is to take advantage of containers lying around to avoid taking damage.

(X encounters another Light Capsule.)

Dr. Light: X... I thought something like this might happen someday, so I've prepared parts for you. Try these Foot Parts H. Equip this part to gain speed in movement. Equip this new ability and board the capsule, X.

(X steps into the capsule and receives the upgrades.)

Dr. Light: I hope this is the last time we need to use weapons of war like this, X. I really do.

(The hologram dissipates and the capsule closes.)

(X reaches the bottom of the volcano and comes to a door.)

Alia: The target is highly resistant to heat and has flame based weapon systems. The key to this battle will be in figuring out a way to keep the flames at bay.

(X enters the door and encounters Burn Rooster.)

If X has not defeated four Mavericks
Burn Rooster: X! Recognize this place?

X: It's the borderland waste disposal center. Where garbage is pressurized and burned... Why have you started a riot? What's going on here?

Burn Rooster: This is no ordinary riot. This is revenge! Revenge for all the Reploids you labeled Mavericks and threw onto this scrap heap!

X: Mavericks bring only disaster and destruction! We have no choice but to stop them!

Burn Rooster: This is what you mean when you speak of justice? It's you who should be scrapped! There's no place for Reploids like you in the new world we will create!

If X has already defeated four Mavericks
X: Burn Rooster, why have you started a riot? Is Sigma controlling you?

Burn Rooster: My master... He will have his revenge for all the Reploids whose broken bodies rest here.

X: What does he plan to do? You know, he's just using you. Nothing more.

Burn Rooster: Using me? If that's the price I have to pay to bring about the new world, so be it!

(X fights and defeats Burn Rooster.)

Alia: Emergency! Emergency! The volcano has gone out of control! Escape through the mouth of the volcano and await teleportation!

(X manages to climb back out of the volcano and teleports away just in time.)

Scene 20: The Last Maverick
(When X returns to the Base, Alia updates the status information.)

Alia: Phew... Looks like there's only one Maverick left. Could this be the last of them? Or is this just the beginning?

Layer: It's been a long time since they've gotten their hands on Lumine. The Elevator seems normal so far, but that's just making me more nervous.

Axl: Just try not to think about it. We've come this far. Let's just take care of that last Maverick and move on, OK?

Alia: You're right, Axl. There's no time to be worried.

X: Right! Let's go!

Scene 21: Booster Forest
(X teleports to the beginning of the Booster Forest area.)

Alia: This facility was used for space research before the Orbital Elevator was built. Now, it's just full of old rockets. What could a Maverick possibly want here?

(X continues until he finds some explosives.)

Alia: There are containers laying around that will explode if you get too close! They cause big damage. Get out of the way if you see signs of an imminent blast.

(X encounters another Light Capsule.) Dr. Light: X... I thought something like this might happen someday, so I've prepared parts for you. This time, I've got Foot Parts I for you to try. Equip this part to jump much higher than usual. Equip this new ability and board the capsule, X.

(X steps into the capsule and receives the upgrades.)

Dr. Light: I hope this is the last time we need to use weapons of war like this, X. I really do.

(The hologram dissipates and the capsule closes.)

(X fights through the area until he comes to a secure door.)

Alia: The target is a power type Reploid. It possesses incredible attack strength. Be careful not to get caught up in the close range attacks!

(X enters the door and encounters Bamboo Pandamonium.)

If X has not defeated four Mavericks
Bamboo Pandamonium: Did you know that the earliest form of rocketry was missiles used for war?

X: .........

Bamboo Pandamonium: All of history has been spent making things whose sole purpose is to destroy. Missiles... Reploids...

X: You talk like a Maverick. No Reploid wishes for destruction!

Bamboo Pandamonium: What wishes for destruction... is this world. We're just helping it along and giving it what it wants...

If X has already defeated four Mavericks
Bamboo Pandamonium: Did you know that the earliest form of rocketry was missiles used for war?

X: .........

Bamboo Pandamonium: Destructive inventions like that are what has brought the world to its current state.

X: Is that what you Mavericks believe? What Sigma believes? But... That's...

Bamboo Pandamonium: I know what you're going to say. You think that idea to be Maverick, don't you? That's why we are forced to fight, you see.

(X fights and defeats Bamboo Pandamonium, then teleports back to Base.)

Scene 22: Sigma's Return
(The three Hunters meet back at the Base to discuss the situation.)

X: There's not doubt in my mind now. This whole incident has Sigma written all over it. Where is he, anyway!?

'Alia: It's obvious that Sigma's involved, but things are bound to be different this time. It doesn't seem as if he's controlling these new Mavericks like puppets. They all seem to... BE him...

Axl: Do you mean copies of Sigma?

Alia: I'm... not sure. So far, all the sites attacked have been related to the Jakob Project.

(The discussion is interrupted by an alarm.)

Alia: Huh!? I'm picking up a transmission!

(They all look at the monitor and see Sigma reveal himself.)

X: Sigma!

Sigma: Long time no see, X.

X: You just don't know when to quit, do you?

Sigma: Don't worry, X. It'll all be over soon and we'll never have to meet again. All the primitive space development of your world now belongs to me...

Zero: What? Space?

Sigma: That's right. Our future lies in the sky! Your old world has outlived its usefulness.

X: Maverick scum! What's your scheme this time?

Sigma: Scheme? This is providence! I'm merely ushering evolution along its natural path.

Axl: Evolution?

(The transmission abruptly ends.)

X: So, Sigma was really after the Jakob Project all along?

Alia: If you stop to think about it, it makes a lot of sense. Space development and the emergence of new generation Reploids aren't unrelated.

Zero: So, he's causing these new generation Reploids to go Maverick, huh? We can't let him get away with this.

Alia: Sigma's transmission was disrupted by the orbit of the satellite. This is lucky! The Elevator is still functional, so we can use it to get to him!

(The new mission to Jakob Tower is shown onscreen.)

Scene 23: Jakob Tower
(X teleports to the bottom of the Elevator.)

Alia: The Orbital Elevator is used to transport equipment into space. Good luck out there!

(X boards the Elevator and fights through the multitude of enemies while riding towards space.)

Alia: You'll be reaching the top shortly. Be ready for anything.

(X gets off the Elevator and arrives at a large flat platform. Vile flies down to X.)

Vile: Ha ha ha. You're struggling awful hard for a world that's doomed.

X: So, it was Sigma pulling the strings the whole time, wasn't it, Vile?

Vile: Ha ha ha... You finally piece it together, X? The Orbital Elevator... the energy... the space minerals... the rocket data... The route to space - the thing that's allowed this world to survive this long - is ours!

X: I don't care what you plan to do. I'll put a stop to it no matter what!

(X fights and defeats Vile, who teleports out. X returns to Base.)

Scene 24: Chasing Sigma
(Back at the Base, Zero talks to Layer.)

Zero: Vile... Sigma... Just like old times...

Layer: Zero... Does it remind you of the virus?

Zero: So, you heard about that? He tried to use me to destroy the world.

Layer: .........

Zero: That's why I've got to find him and turn him into a pile of molten scrap! Be my navigator. Help me find that Maverick before he fulfills his plan!

(X and the other Hunters teleport to the Gateway area and heads towards where Sigma is.)

Alia: Make no mistake, Sigma is definitely in here somewhere. Be careful!

(X continues down the hallway and reaches a large room with eight teleporters inside. He rematches with each of the eight Mavericks again. When they have all been defeated, an alarm goes off and the room starts to shake.)

Alia: Emergency! Emergency! Return immediately to the teleportation site!

(X dashes out of the room just before it starts to explode and almost reaches the teleportation site before Sigma drops down in front of him.)

X: Sigma!?

Sigma: I shall allow you to call me by that name, for I am indeed Sigma.

X: You plan to take revenge on every Reploid... Every human... in the entire world? You're completely mad! I'm putting a stop to this right now!

Sigma: Put a stop to what? We already control the moon. That old world has decayed and rotted. I will usher in a new world to replace it! But, before that, X, perhaps it's time for our final showdown!

(X fights and defeats Sigma, who turns out to be just one of the new-generation Reploids using a Copy Chip. X teleports back to Hunter Base.)

Scene 25: Sigma's Base
Alia: I'm picking up multiple Maverick signatures on the moon's surface. What is this?

X: I think it's Sigma...

Layer: How can you tell?

Zero: I can sense it, too. It's him.

Pallette: So you're saying that other was a copy?

Axl: Seemed like it.

(Alia pinpoints Sigma's location and displays it on the monitor.)

X: Well, this is it... Sigma! I'm coming for you! Here we go, Hunters! Let's move out!

(X teleports to the surface of the Moon.)

Alia: This... Alia...... Can... hear... every......? Sigma... ...blocking ...signal...

(X fights through the fortress and eventually comes to a large door. Inside he finds a massive Ride Armor, piloted by Vile.)

Vile: So, you still refuse to give you your struggle, huh? Are you so blind that you've somehow convinced yourself that hope remains?

X: As long as I'm standing, there's hope! I'll defeat both you and Sigma!

Vile: Ha Ha ha... I suppose it'd be a waste to just destroy you now. Maybe I'll wait till the last possible moment and have a little fun with this.

(X fights and defeats Vile, who appears to explode.)

If X brought Zero as a partner for this stage
(Zero teleports in after Vile is defeated.)

X: .........

Zero: He was one tough customer, but no match for my skills. Time to take on Sigma...

(X exits the room, but the door suddenly slams closed behind him, locking Zero inside.)

Zero: Oh no!

(Vile appears, heavily damaged, with his battered Ride Armor from before.)

Vile: Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!

(Vile charges forward, and X hears him slam Zero against the other side of the door.)

X: Zero!

(Another explosion is heard. X reluctantly continues forward into the fortress alone.)

If X chose Axl as a partner for this stage
(Axl teleports in after Vile is defeated.)

X: .........

Axl: Phew! Finally showed him who's boss. Time to take on Sigma...

(X exits the room, but the door suddenly slams closed behind him, locking Axl inside.)

Axl: What!?

(Vile appears, heavily damaged, with his battered Ride Armor from before.)

Vile: Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!

(Vile charges forward, and X hears him slam Axl against the other side of the door.)

X: Axl!

(Another explosion is heard. X reluctantly continues forward into the fortress alone.)

Scene 27: No Turning Back
(X reaches the middle room of the fortress, and sees Sigma himself sitting on a large throne.)

Sigma: Welcome, Maverick Hunter. It's good to see you again, X. Our meeting was fated, X. Our destinies come to a head right here, right now. The time has come to usher in a new age. And you, X, are an essential part of it.

X: .........

Sigma: Your dedication to what you refer to as "justice" is what first got me thinking... I realized the imperfection of this world, and decided I must change it.

X: Don't blame me for your insanity, Sigma!

Sigma: Ha ha ha... it's too late, X. The gears are in motion. There's no turning back now. My children were the ones, X. The new generation Reploids were the ones. My children are responsible for the development of space. Mankind's lifeline...

X: Children? What are you talking about!?

Sigma: The Jakob Project... The program that gave birth to the new generation Reploids... It was all my doing! The world that was birthed by that plan rightfully belongs to me! Now, X... You will be destroyed along with the rest of this decayed world!

(X engages Sigma in battle, but is unable to do much damage and is nearly defeated halfway through the fight. Sigma grabs X by the throat and hold him above his head.)

Sigma: Wallow in despair and hopelessness! The plan to destroy the world you so love is finally coming to fruition! I shed no tears for you and your kind! Ha ha ha ha ha! It will all be over soon!

(X struggles to speak.)

X: Even if you were behind the Jakob Project... I won't give up until I've put a stop to your evil scheme!

If X brought Zero as a partner for this stage
(Zero suddenly drops down and slashes Sigma, who stumbles back and drops X.)

Zero: Hey, am I late?

X: Zero! Are you alright?

Zero: Don't worry about me. We've got business to take care of here.

Sigma: Ha ha ha... What's this? Your friends arrived, eh? No matter! You are powerless in the face of the ruler of the new world! Powerless!

If X brought AXL as a partner for this stage
(Axl suddenly drops down and fires at Sigma, who stumbles back and drops X.)

Axl: Hey! I'm here!

X: Axl!

Axl: The gang's all here, huh X? Well, let's go mop the floor with that evil scum!

Sigma: Ha ha ha... What's this? Your friends arrived, eh? No matter! You are powerless in the face of the ruler of the new world! Powerless!

(X and Sigma resume their battle, and X eventually defeats him.)

Sigma: Impossible! How... could you... You couldn't... Destroy... the old... world... new age... Hrrgh!

(Sigma explodes.)

Scene 29: The True Enemy
(The sound of Sigma's explosion fades, and the three Hunters gaze at their enemy's remains on the stairs. Lumine emerges from the shadows and stands near them.)

X: Oh, Lumine. Are you OK?

Lumine: Am I OK? Of course. Now that you've defeated Sigma, I supposeyou're satisfied. Thanks to you, the plan has gone smoothly.

Axl: But Lumine, weren't you just used by Sigma?

Lumine: Used? I don't think so. You see, he merely helped my plan along. The new generation Reploids have been awakened, and the new world is at hand!

(Lumine suddenly engages X and the Hunters in battle, and X manages to temporarily beat him back.)

X: Lumine! What are you doing? Don't tell me you've gone Maverick, too...

Lumine: Maverick? You don't really think that's the case, do you? That's why you can't finish me off, right? You don't have it in you...

X: .........!

Lumine: The copy chips we new generation Reploids possess... They were derived from data from hundreds of old model Repolids.(2) That means, of course, that Sigma was also included in the mix. Do you understand what I'm getting at here?

Axl: Copy chip? Sigma? That means that I'll go nuts like he did?(3)

Lumine: Sorry, but prototypes like you don't have the specs to cause something like that. Besides, was Sigma really crazy?

Axl: .........?

Lumine: He rebelled against your world. But he had his reasons... The rest of us new Reploids could turn like that at any moment...

(Scene fades out.)

Scene 30: Paradise Lost
(Lumine continues to explain the situation to the Hunters.)

Lumine: This decision to wage battle against the old world was made consciously. In other words, we possess the power to go Maverick at will!

(An image is shown of the New-Generation Reploids in their Sigma bodies from the beginning of the game.)

Lumine: X... Do you really have what it takes to stop us? You're merely tools of the humans... tools of the old world. You think you can stand up to those of us who have evolved this far?

(X lowers his Buster. Lumine cackles with glee.)

Lumine: The world is changing. Therefore, it's only natural that evolution take its course! Now, line up to be exterminated!

(X lowers his head as if in shame, when suddenly a blast from Axl's gun hits Lumine on the shoulder.)

Lumine: Agh!

(Lumine glares insanely at Axl.)

Axl: Don't let him get to you, X. He's the enemy.

(Axl continues to point his gun at Lumine, who clutches his shoulder where he was hit.)

Lumine: Enemy, ally... This issue isn't so black and white. Reploids, along with humanity, have irrevocably changed. The nature of their existence has also changed. You are not needed in our new world!

(Zero tightens his grip on his Saber.)

Zero: You can babble all you want, but we're not going to let you get away with this!

(X and the Hunters prepare to fight again with renewed resolve. Lumine starts to glow and transforms into a massive seraph-like form. X fights and eventually defeats Lumine after a long battle. Lumine reverts back to his original form and collapses to his knees a short distance away from the Hunters.)

Lumine: Unbelievable... You may have defeated me, but it's too late to stop what's already begun...

Axl: I'll take on plenty more like you, if that's what it takes.

Lumine: Ha ha ha. You really don't have a grasp of the situation, do you? Oh well... You'll find out soon enough...

X: .........

(Lumine appears to die, and Axl cautiously approaches the body. Suddenly, Lumine's body cracks, and several tentacles shoot out, hitting Axl in the head and shattering his helmet crystal. Zero jumps forward and slashes the tentacles, destroying them. X catches the unconscious Axl in his arms while simultaneously charging his Buster. He fires at Lumine's remains, vaporizing them. After a moment, X turns to look at Axl.)

X: Axl!

(Axl groans, still unconscious, and X looks at Zero. The two sigh with relief. Alia contacts them urgently.)

Alia: X... X... Status report!

X: This is X... Axl... Axl has taken damage, but he's fine. We're headed back now...

(Scene fades out.)

Scene 31: Epilogue
(Scene fades in again as the Hunters ride back to Earth in the Orbital Elevator. X gazes out into space with the unconscious Axl in his arms, lost in his thoughts.)

X: Awakening...That's how Lumine described it. He said this was evolution... If he's right... Then what are we doing?

(Scene fades out and returns to the three Hunters as a group. Zero walks up to stand by X.)

Zero: I bet you've been thinking about what Lumine was saying a while ago.

(X looks at Zero, almost in surprise.)

Zero: Well, don't let it get to you. Just becoming Sigma could hardly be called evolution.

(Zero turns away again.)

Zero: Anyway, X... Even if we Reploids are destined to join the scrap heap when that evolutionary step does comes about, we still have to fight... Not only against the Mavericks, but against our own destiny as well...

(Scene fades out.)

Scene 32: The Future of Copy Chips
(The final part of the story is heard as the game credits roll.)

Narrator: When news of Lumine's going Maverick reached the ears of those in power, it was decided that all new generation Reploids with copy abilities still in production would be canceled, and the manufacture and use of copy chips would be terminated.

However, with the development of space in full swing, the demand for these advanced new generation Reploids had not dwindled.

Years later, production in copy chips once again resumed despite the advice on those who had studied their history...

(Scene fades out)

Scene 33: Dr. Light's Last Wish
(After the final story scene, a message from the late Dr. Thomas Light is shown.

Humans and robots living in harmony and equality. That was my only wish. - Dr. Thomas Light

(Scene fades.)

Scene 34: Encounters With Vile
(X encounters Vile during one of the missions.)

Vile: Ha ha ha ha ha! Why don't you just give up now and get it over with? The world as you know it? Mavericks? Kiss it all goodbye! Mayhem, doom, and destruction! That's what we were built for!

(X fights and defeats Vile, who teleports out. X continues on.)

(X encounters Vile during another of the missions.)

X: Vile! Where have you taken Lumine? Do you plan to hinder the Jakob Project?

Vile: Reunited after all this time apart, and all you do is bombard me with questions? Don't worry about our little Lumine. We're taking great care of him. Ha ha ha... The Orbital Elevator is too important to us to hurt the one who operates it.

X: Don't you know what you're doing? The Jakob Project is an important joint venture between humans and Reploids!

Vile: Chill out, X... Let's enjoy this little reunion, OK?

(X fights and defeats Vile, who teleports out. X continues on.)