Variables

"Variables"
(Ultimate Armor X and Black Zero from Mega Man X4)

As stated previously, I love Mega Man X, and while I played each game as they came out, the first I ever beat was Mega Man X4 for the PS1. The rich graphics, immersive soundtrack, and nice anime cutscenes greatly enhanced what it was like to play a video game. The other aspect I loved were the hidden armors for X and Zero that could only be obtained by a code. And while Zero's was nothing more than an aesthetically pleasing palette swap, X's Ultimate Armor was like switching the game to ultra easy mode, but still made it fun to play!

Aside from keeping both characters poses relatively unaltered, the biggest challenge on this picture was replicating the clear effect on X's armor. Digital manipulation would normally be the workaround for something like this, but with my markers, I don't have that liberty. And while I think I could have done better in some spots, I am still quite pleased with this one's turnout.
 
April 14, 2015
Micron pens, Sakura Pigma pens, Prismacolor Markers, colored pencils, and gel pens,
on 8.5x11" cardstock.

Maverick Hunters

"Maverick Hunters"
(X and Zero from Mega Man X)

I've always loved the X series Mega Man titles. Because of their more hardcore setting and fun, interesting gameplay, it feels like a true sequel to the Mega Man franchise rather than just another chapter of the same story. I also love the approach of the rivals-in-arms friendship of X and Zero. This illustration was a bit of a gush for me, pouring out my love for MMX onto paper is something I've not really done since I was young. Even less, it be an original piece.

In a rarity, this one actually turned out better than I anticipated, with no issues on marker-bleed or misplaced colors to note. I do wish I could highlight Zero's Z-Sabre better, but I'm afraid of overdoing it's effect, so it is what it is.
 
April 13, 2015
Micron pens, Sakura Pigma pens, Prismacolor Markers, colored pencils, and gel pens,
on 8.5x11" cardstock.