Action-platforming has looked very different depending on when you grew up with it. These two sit at opposite ends of that history, one built on decades-old 16-bit design, the other a modern take built around rhythm and momentum rather than precision alone.
Tales of Kenzera: ZAU, $18
A Metroidvania-style action-platformer drawing on Bantu mythology, following a shaman named Zau as he navigates a spirit world using two masks that grant different combat and movement abilities. Combat leans on rhythm and flow, chaining attacks and traversal together, more like a modern character-action game shrunk into a 2D platforming frame than a classic run-and-gun.
Mega Man Zero/ZX Legacy Collection, $22
A collection bundling all four Mega Man Zero games and both Mega Man ZX titles, originally released across the Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS. Classic precision run-and-gun platforming, memorising enemy patterns and level layouts, built on design philosophy from an entirely earlier console generation than Kenzera. Six full games in one collection for anyone who wants the genre's history rather than its present.
Same genre, different decades
| Tales of Kenzera: ZAU | Mega Man Zero/ZX Legacy Collection | |
|---|---|---|
| Era | Modern (2024) | Classic (GBA/DS era), remastered |
| Combat style | Rhythm and flow-based, two-mask ability system | Classic precision run-and-gun, pattern memorisation |
| Content | One complete story | Six games across two sub-series |
| Price | $18 | $22 for six games |
If a modern, story-driven single playthrough with flowing combat appeals, Kenzera is the pick. If the appeal is classic genre history and a lot of content for the price, six games in one collection, Zero/ZX is the better value.
Get either key
Both are genuine global Xbox digital keys, delivered by email. New to redeeming a digital Xbox code, our redemption guide covers console, phone and browser methods.
More to explore
See the rest of the game key catalogue, or our other roundups: puzzle-platformers, six more indie picks, and retro throwbacks.
Frequently asked questions
How many games are in the Mega Man Zero/ZX Legacy Collection?
Six: all four Mega Man Zero games and both Mega Man ZX titles, originally released on Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS.
Is Tales of Kenzera: ZAU a Metroidvania?
Yes, it follows the genre's structure of interconnected areas unlocked through new abilities gained from the game's two masks.
Do I need to know the older Mega Man games to enjoy this collection?
No, each game is a complete experience on its own, and the collection includes the full Zero and ZX sub-series in one package.
Which is more difficult?
Mega Man Zero/ZX follows the classic series' reputation for tight, punishing precision platforming. Tales of Kenzera: ZAU is generally more forgiving, built around flow and rhythm rather than strict pattern memorisation.
Are these genuine Xbox keys?
Yes, both are genuine global, region-free Microsoft codes, delivered by email and redeemable on any Xbox account regardless of country.
