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Black Zero

From Mega Man Wiki
Armor Info
File:Xover - Black Zero Art.png
Artwork from Rockman ✕over.
General Information
Name(s):Black Zero, ???, Nightshade Zero[1]
Appearance(s):Mega Man X4, Mega Man X5, Mega Man X6, Mega Man X8, Mega Man X: Command Mission, Mega Man X DiVE
Game Information
Location:Varies

Black Zero (ブラックゼロ)[2] is a recurring power-up for Zero in the X era. It is often a hidden upgrade that is only obtained through secret methods such as codes or specific actions, granting Zero stat enhancements.

In the Games

Mega Man X4

Black Zero debuted in Mega Man X4. It is unlocked by entering a code at the game's character select screen - if it has been input correctly, Zero will start the game with a new black color scheme. Once applied, it cannot be removed. However, it has no effect on Zero's stats. This indicates Black Zero was a leftover from the game's development when Zero was planned to have his own Ultimate Armor, simply being a color palette change to signify that its code had been entered correctly (similar to how X turns purple with his own code).[3]

Upgrade Code Effect
Black Zero Console: Hold R1, →, →, →, →, →, →, hold Circle, Start
PC: Hold ↑, Start
Turns Zero's armor black, with no additional effects.

Mega Man X5

Black Zero returns in Mega Man X5, this time with some stat enhancements based on the game's Parts: when applied, Zero gains 50% maximum Weapon Energy is automatically equipped with Shock Buffer, Shot Eraser, and Virus Buster, coloring his Z-Saber violet. Further Parts can be stacked on top of these enhancements.

Black Zero can be obtained either with a code, or later in the game instead using a specific sequence of actions. Zero can enter Zero Space Stage 3: Awakening, then descend one of the vertical shafts in the middle of the stage to find a Light Capsule containing the Black Zero upgrade. If so, the Dr. Light hologram claims to have created the upgrade, as he was unable to create any Armor Parts for him.[4]

Upgrade Code Effect
Black Zero ↓, ↓, ↑, ↑, ↑, ↑, ↑, ↑, ↑, ↑, ↑ Increases Zero's maximum Weapon Energy by 50%, and automatically applies three Parts effects:
  • Shock Buffer: Reduces damage taken by 50% and removes knockback from taking damage midair.
  • Shot Eraser: Colors the Z-Saber's blade violet, giving its slashes the power to destroy enemy energy projectiles (similar to Tenkuuha from Mega Man X4).
  • Virus Buster: Gives the Z-Saber the power to destroy Sigma Virus and Zero Virus drones.

Mega Man X6

Black Zero returns in Mega Man X6. It can only be obtained by entering a code at the title screen (due to the lack of a character select screen). Because there is no Sigma Virus or Zero Virus in this game, the Virus Buster enhancement is replaced by Saber Plus, which colors his Z-Saber turquoise instead of violet.

Upgrade Code Effect
Black Zero L1, L1, L1, R2 Functions identically to the Black Zero in Mega Man X5, but instead of Virus Buster it applies the Part for Saber Plus, which colors the Z-Saber's blade turquoise and increases its default slash damage by one.

Mega Man X8

Black Zero returns in Mega Man X8 with completely different effects. It may be unlocked by entering a code on the title screen, or by starting a new game from a save file that has been cleared with all of Zero's Rare Metals crafted, including the Σ Blade. Note that the code does not work in the game's original PC release.

Upgrade Code Effect
Black Zero L1, L1, R1, R1, L1, L1, L1, L1 Doubles Zero's default attack power and doubles his Dash speed and distance, but reduces his defense by 50% in exchange.

Mega Man X: Command Mission

In Mega Man X: Command Mission, Zero can temporarily equip Black Zero as a Hyper Mode. It increases his Power, Speed, and WE recharge rate, and grants him the Vengeful Counter property so he may randomly Counter enemy attacks. It lasts for 3 turns by default.

Mega Man X DiVE

In Mega Man X DiVE, Black Zero appears as a playable Hunter Program, wielding his purple Shot Eraser Z-Saber from Mega Man X5. His Active Skills are Raikousen and C-Flasher.

Other Game Appearances

References

  1. Nightshade Zero figure box, Jazwares.
  2. Mega Man X4. 1997.
  3. "The Making of the Ultimate Armor", The Reploid Research Lavatory. 2010.
  4. Mega Man X5. Capcom. 2000. Dr. Light: "Zero... I wasn't able to create any armor for you... But I seem to be able to enhance your abilities..." Zero: "No. I don't need any enhancements..." Dr. Light: "I see... Whether you enter this capsule or not, the decision is up to you. But if you enter, the Z Saber will be enhanced, and your defense power will be increased... I believe in you. You will use these powers in the right way to fight evil. Decide...and choose your fate."