Mega Man X3 is set in a world where Reploids are building a new city, hoping to bring about peace between humans and Reploids. However, Dr. Doppler's creation sparks chaos as Mavericks begin to appear everywhere, threatening the fragile balance.
Players take control of either Mega Man X or his friend Zero in this action-packed adventure. Zero is a playable character for the first time in the series, but his abilities are limited compared to X's. With only one life per stage, players must master both characters' strengths and weaknesses to progress through the game.