"For the first time in many years, we are developing an 8-bit game," said Inafune. "This opportunity has awoken my spirit as a game designer. I've stepped closer to the designing team to get more hands-on with the graphics and game design. I've been more involved in the actual creation process this time, and even designed the bosses!"

In addition to several items appearing in previous NES Mega Man titles, Mega Man 9 will also include a shop where players can buy items such as new armor, spike shoes that protect against one-hit kills, and energy balancers.

The game is slated for a September release in Japan, according to Japanese gaming magazine Famitsu. A North American localization is likely to follow soon thereafter.