The classic Mega Man series consists in ten main titles including the original game, as well as all Game Boy and PC titles featuring the original design of Mega Man. The classic series is considered to be the origin of story, with Mega Man being the first settler, and continues with ten direct sequels. In terms of dates, after Mega Man 8 comes Mega Man & Bass, followed by Mega Man 9 and Mega Man 10.

Although classic series should reach an end, storey line shifts to Mega Man X series, followed by Mega Man Zero, Mega Man ZX and Mega Man Legends. Although it is confirmed that the Legends series takes place sometime in the distant future after ZX series,it's doubted when it really takes place. All series follow one continuous time line except for Mega Man Battle Network and Mega Man Star Force that exist in an alternate universe.

The official source book Rockman Perfect Memories outlines the Classic, X, and Legends series and gives reference of of the Battle Network and Zero series. While ZX and Star Force series were not yet conceived when the source book was published, Capcom is clear within games themselves in regard to their placement in timeline.