If you've ever wanted to mix RPGs with tactical card battles, Mega Man Battle Network 5: Team Protoman is the weird, addictive hybrid you didn’t know you needed. You play as Lan and his NetNavi MegaMan, diving into cyberspace to fight viruses in this grid-based combat system where timing and deck-building matter way more than you’d expect.

The Protoman version throws in some exclusive content—like different allies and chips—compared to Team Colonel. At first, the combat feels a little overwhelming (why are there so many sword-type chips?), but once you get the hang of chaining attacks and countering enemy moves, it clicks in the best way. Also, the story’s got that classic Battle Network charm—cheesy dialogue, sudden betrayals, and way too many puns about "net" things.

It’s not perfect—some of the dungeon layouts drag—but the core gameplay still holds up years later. If you’re into GBA-era action-strategy, this one’s a solid pick.