Black Zero

Mega Man X4. 1997. is a recurring power-up for Zero in the X era. It is often a hidden upgrade that is only obtained through secret methods such as codes or specific actions, granting Zero stat enhancements.
==In the Games==
===Mega Man X4===
Black Zero debuted in Mega Man X4. It is unlocked by entering a code at the game's character select screen - if it has been input correctly, Zero will start the game with a new black color scheme. Once applied, it cannot be removed. However, it has no effect on Zero's stats. This indicates Black Zero was a leftover from the game's development when Zero was planned to have his own Ultimate Armor, simply being a color palette change to signify that its code had been entered correctly (similar to how X turns purple with his own code)."The Making of the Ultimate Armor", The Reploid Research Lavatory. 2010.
Upgrade 	Code 	Effect
Black Zero	Console: Hold R1, →, →, →, →, →, →, hold Circle, StartPC: Hold ↑, Start	Turns Zero's armor black, with no additional effects.
===Mega Man X5===
Black Zero returns in Mega Man X5, this time with some stat enhancements based on the game's : when applied, Zero gains 50% maximum Weapon Energy is automatically equipped with Shock Buffer, Shot Eraser, and Virus Buster, coloring his Z-Saber violet. Further Parts can be stacked on top of these enhancements.
Black Zero can be obtained either with a code, or later in the game instead using a specific sequence of actions. Zero can enter Zero Space Stage 3: Awakening, then descend one of the vertical shafts in the middle of the stage to find a Light Capsule containing the Black Zero upgrade. If so, the Dr. Light hologram claims to have created the upgrade, as he was unable to create any Armor Parts for him.Mega Man X5. Capcom. 2000. Dr. Light: "Zero... I wasn't able to create any armor for you... But I seem to be able to enhance your abilities..." Zero: "No. I don't need any enhancements..." Dr. Light: "I see... Whether you enter this capsule or not, the decision is up to you. But if you enter, the Z Saber will be enhanced, and your defense power will be increased... I believe in you. You will use these powers in the right way to fight evil. Decide...and choose your fate."
Upgrade 	Code 	Effect
Black Zero	↓, ↓, ↑, ↑, ↑, ↑, ↑, ↑, ↑, ↑, ↑	Increases Zero's maximum Weapon Energy by 50%, and automatically applies three Parts effects:
* Shock Buffer: Reduces damage taken by 50% and removes knockback from taking damage midair.
* Shot Eraser: Colors the Z-Saber's blade violet, giving its slashes the power to destroy enemy energy projectiles (similar to Tenkuuha from Mega Man X4).
* Virus Buster: Gives the Z-Saber the power to destroy Sigma Virus and Zero Virus drones.
===Mega Man X6===
Black Zero returns in Mega Man X6. It can only be obtained by entering a code at the title screen (due to the lack of a character select screen). Because there is no Sigma Virus or Zero Virus in this game, the Virus Buster enhancement is replaced by Saber Plus, which colors his Z-Saber turquoise instead of violet.
Upgrade 	Code 	Effect
Black Zero	L1, L1, L1, R2	Functions identically to the Black Zero in Mega Man X5, but instead of Virus Buster it applies the Part for Saber Plus, which colors the Z-Saber's blade turquoise and increases its default slash damage by one.
===Mega Man X8===
Black Zero returns in Mega Man X8 with completely different effects. It may be unlocked by entering a code on the title screen, or by starting a new game from a save file that has been cleared with all of Zero's Rare Metals crafted, including the Σ Blade. Note that the code does not work in the game's original PC release.
Upgrade 	Code 	Effect
Black Zero	L1, L1, R1, R1, L1, L1, L1, L1	Doubles Zero's default attack power and doubles his Dash speed and distance, but reduces his defense by 50% in exchange.
===Mega Man X: Command Mission===
In Mega Man X: Command Mission, Zero can temporarily equip Black Zero as a Hyper Mode. It increases his Power, Speed, and WE recharge rate, and grants him the Vengeful Counter property so he may randomly Counter enemy attacks. It lasts for 3 turns by default.
===Mega Man X DiVE===
In Mega Man X DiVE, Black Zero appears as a playable Hunter Program, wielding his purple Shot Eraser Z-Saber from Mega Man X5. His Active Skills are Raikousen and C-Flasher.
===Other Game Appearances===
* In Mega Man X2, a black-colored copy of Zero known as "Fake Zero" appears before the game's final boss if the player failed to collect all three of Zero's parts. This is the first appearance of Zero with a black color scheme, possibly inspiring the Black Zero upgrade.
* In Mega Man X Legacy Collection, in X Challenge's bonus battle against and Awakened Zero in the secret 9-4, Zero will automatically equip the Black Zero upgrade if the player defeats X first. This changes his moveset to instead use Zero's Techniques from X4 to X6, including Ryuenjin, Hyouretsuzan, Kuuenzan, E-Blade, Quake Blazer, Rakukojin, Rekkoha, and Hyoroga.
* In TEPPEN, Black Zero appears as an alternate skin for Zero.
* In Zombie Cafe, Black Zero appears as an alternate skin for Zero.
* In Dragon Poker, Black Zero appears as an evolution for Zero.
* In Elemental Story, Black Zero appears as an alternate skin for Zero.
* In Shironeko Project, Black Zero appears as an alternate skin for Zero.
* In Bouken Dig Dig 2, Black Zero appears as an event character.
* In Tower of Saviors, Black Zero appears as an event character.
==References==