: Between stages, players can visit a shop to spend "Metals" on permanent upgrades for health, weapons, and special chips. Playable Characters
: The close-quarters specialist who uses the Z-Saber and various unlockable martial arts techniques. Mega Man X8
: Filling a gauge allows both characters to perform a massive screen-clearing "Double Attack". : Between stages, players can visit a shop
Set during the construction of the , the plot follows the Maverick Hunters' attempt to stop a new rebellion led by "Next-Generation Reploids" who are immune to viruses. The story culminates in a confrontation with the series' recurring antagonist, Sigma, and a new threat named Lumine on the surface of the Moon. : Between stages