Technically speaking, a ROM hack is a modification of an existing game file (a Read-Only Memory image) played via an emulator. Mega Man X Corrupted, however, is a PC game being built from scratch using a custom engine. It does not run on a Super Nintendo emulator. More importantly, the developer has maintained a strict policy of not releasing public demos or early builds. The project is still actively in development, with JKB Games regularly posting high-quality gameplay demonstrations and progress updates on YouTube and Twitch.
Because it’s built from scratch in GameMaker, it is . It’s a standalone executable. Calling it a “ROM” is technically incorrect—ROMs refer to dumps of cartridge-based games.
It is heartbreaking to see fans excited to play this masterpiece, only to have their computers compromised by fake download buttons. As of now, , where development updates are posted.