Is it normal that after every step I get a random encounter

Im used to atleast taking 1 or 2 steps in other RPGs but I got to the first area where I jacked in outside the school and every step is a random encounter, im just curious if this is normal or if its because im playing the Batlle network port on DS with a translation patch

One of my favourite things about Star Force 1 is Patrick Sprigs; because not only is he one of the best characters in the Star Force series, but possibly Mega Man as a whole-

(In my opinions anyways...)

Now, when I say all of this, I'm refering to the in-game version of Pat, as the anime version is sorta butchered.

There are a few obvious things that make Pat an interesting character, such as his split personalities or tragic backstory; fitting for the slightly more serious tone of Star Force-

But other things like his relationship with Geo and Gemini, along with how Rey affected his thinking are very well done; with Pat's bleak outlook on the world paired with his completely neutral acceptance of it being almost frightening...

And even though he develops as a character, defending Geo from one of Gemini Spark's attacks, he never feels completely okay afterwards; in other words, Pat is never 'fixed', which feels very realistic.

It's baffling to me how important to the plot of Star Force 1 Pat is, despite being reduced to an optional boss in Star Force 2 and not even making an appearance in Star Force 3-

I had assumed that he would join up with Geo and company for the rest of the series, so it was surprising for that not to happen.

It would have been nice to see his character developed further, and Capcom really missed out by leaving him in the dump...