Mega Man X8 decides to ditch the 3D gameplay of X7, and focus strictly on 2D Action.
Alongside that, it also has an in-game currency, allowing you to buy more life energy and other components to make your characters stronger, ditching the Heart Tanks from previous games.

Does it work?

My answer is a resounding YES!

Mega Man X8 not only is more faster-paced than its predecessor, but it's such a fun game to play! Not every stage is a winner, but I had fun with most of them, with their varied level design and fun gimmicks.

The story revolves around the rise of a new generation of Reploids, and the fact that all of them can transform to many more Reploids than Axl could, including Sigma!
I found the story of this game to, while not the greatest, to be much better than the last few games. What helps is the fact that this game's voice acting is much better than previously, and the dialogue feels very natural!

Coupled that with some nice graphics, and a good soundtrack, and you've got yourself one of the best games in the Mega Man X series.

It might not be my favourite, but it gets pretty close.