Capcom’s Mega Man X2 action-platformer is split into 10 stages, the first being a tutorial or introduction stage, 8 main stages and then the final stage. Any of the 8 main stages can be done in any order you choose. Below is a guide for the Energen Crystal stage and it’s boss, Crystal Snail. I will explain how to defeat each enemy and boss in this guide.

Mega Man X2: Energen Crystal Stage & Crystal Snail

Players will face the boss Crystal Snail in this stage, but before they reach the boss they will come up against a few enemies. Enemies will include Batton Bone G, Refleczer, Magna Quartz  and mini-boss. I will explain what strategies to use in defeating each in this step-by-step guide.

Energen Crystal Stage

Dash right past the Batton Bone Gs and jump over the gap to enter the Rabbit Mech Armor. Head back towards the start of the level and fall in the gap towards the left-side. Players will land on a platform, use the space given to dash jump over the gap while tapping the glide button during the entire flight, until you reach the end where you will need to eject from the mech to reach the Heart Tank. Climb the wall to reach the moving platform to ride back where players started.

Climb the wall then head right to find a new Mech Armor and use it to travel. Players will encounter several Refleczers and end up on several spikes. Don’t worry the Mech Armor as it will protect you from the spikes, as long you are in the mech. Jump towards the small area near the purple crystal and exit the Armor. Proceed to the right to bait the green crystal to move, this will allow you to progress further.

Head back to pick up the Rabbit Mech Armor, then proceed right past the ground spikes and Refleczers. Hit the blue crystal using the Rabbit Mech Armor’s powerful arm thrusts to clear the passage. Ignore the Refleczer above, focus on destroying the blue crystals to pick up the extra life. Eject from the Armor and climb the right wall to reach the mini boss called Magna Quartz.

Magna Quartz is very susceptible to Spin Wheel attack so equip it before the fight and unleash the power of Wheels. Simply avoid the projectiles that are shot at you and be careful as they can ricochet off surfaces.

Slide down the sloped platform quickly and ascend the wall to prevent being crushed by the large falling green crystal. Head slightly forward, slide down the gap’s left wall to find the Helmet Armor upgrade for Mega Man X guarded by numerous Refleczers.

Climb back up, cross the gap and avoid all the Batton Bone Gs to bait the green crystal to slide downwards. The only safe space is the area up the ladder. While players are here, use the Silk Shot charge shot to pull several energy items towards them and unlock the Friendly Neighborhood Mega Man trophy/achievement.

Head up the path now clear from crystals but filled with Batton Bone Gs. Players will have to avoid the Refleczers as well as the sliding green crystal blocking the entrance to the boss

Boss: Crystal Snail

Crystal Snail‘s fight is the most time consuming battle but with Magnet Mine from Magna Centipede, it can be shortened. Start the fight by shooting him with Magnet Mine when he faces you. He can use his shell to block any attacks as well as propel himself to crash into the player. This will send Crystal Snail flying out of his shell and towards a wall which also damages him. Wait for him to return to his shell to blast him again. This timing can be tricky but can deal quick and evasive damage to him if you loop him. Be aware when the space starts to warp, this will slow down X and make Crystal Snail more of a threat.

To see this stage in action watch it here:

If you want more Mega Man X guides be sure to check out out out Mega Man X Trophy Guide to collect all the platinum achievements. You can also checkout the Abandoned Reploid Factory Stage Guide for a step-by-step in defeating the first stage as well as our Mega Man X2: All Body Armor Upgrades, Heart & Sub Tanks Guide to locate all upgrades, heart and sub-tanks in the game.