These are alphanumeric strings entered into a Game Genie device to modify the behavior of the Mega Man X video game. Using them, players could alter various aspects of the game, such as character attributes, enemy behaviors, or level layouts. For example, a code might grant infinite health, unlock all weapons from the start, or skip certain sections of the game.
Their significance lies in providing players with expanded control and customization options beyond the game’s original design. This allowed for exploration of the game in unconventional ways, catering to varying skill levels and preferences. Historically, these codes provided a form of early game modding, predating more sophisticated methods of altering game code directly.