"R-Type" is a side-scrolling shooter game that was released in 1987 on the arcade. In the game, players control an "ultimate interchangeable fighter" developed by humans and engage in battles with the alien life form known as the "Bydo." Players will fight using the “Force,” a device attached to the front of the ship that is responsible for most of its firepower. The strategic nature of responding to enemies attacking from all directions by swapping the Force from the front to the back and the exhilaration of destroying many enemies with the "Wave Cannon", which requires time to recharge, are what make this shooter game different.
After the release of "R-Type Final" on the PS2 platform in 2003, the series fell silent until the release of "R-Type Final 2" in 2021. R-Type Final 3 Evolved is an exclusive version developed for the PS5 platform based on "R-Type Final 2."
A concept picture of the R-Type Final 3 Evolved
As an enhanced version of R-Type Final 2, R-Type Final 3 Evolved adds seven new levels called the Evolved Route. The Evolved levels show significant improvements to the graphics. For example, the first level features a large number of plants and a water surface that was completely absent in the previous game. As a preserved element of the R-TYPE series, the battleship levels in the Evolved Route have also made significant advancements in texture and detail compared to the second game. This may explain why the production team specifically stated that the Evolved Route was developed for the PS5, while the PS4 and NS versions did not include these levels (and the PC version did not specify).
In addition to the visuals, another point of interest in the R-Type series is the unique level design mechanism. Whether it's the exhaust flames from the spacecraft, the machines that can come down like a factory assembly line at any time, or the giant underground electric water bears that cling to walls, these insta-kill mechanics are closely tied to the level themes, making players both love and hate them.
Being ambushed due to unfamiliarity with the levels is a common occurrence.
Players will have to go through trial and error to beat game levels. R-Type does not have extremely exaggerated bullet hell, but the fighter's hitbox is large, requiring more space to avoid enemy bullets. The fatal terrain in the scene and some difficult-to-handle enemies will continuously compress the safe space. Some enemies will come out from the left side of the screen (behind the player's fighter) at the most critical moments to launch a surprise attack. Rather than reaction, the key is to get familiar with the level and develop a strategy for what you know is coming.
Fortunately, R-Type Final 3 Evolved has a fairly user-friendly checkpoint design. If a player is shot down, they will restart from the previous checkpoint, and there are usually 1-2 supply ships that drop upgrade items to give players a quick recovery.
If a player continues to fail and their remaining lives reach zero, they can spend one credit to restart from the current checkpoint. Three credits are given at the start of the game and can be earned as players progress, simulating the traditional arcade style. Once the player successfully completes a playthrough (regardless of difficulty), they will have unlimited credits. From this perspective, as long as the player has the patience to endure repeated failures, they will eventually be victorious.
The wave cannon is very satisfying in R-Type.
For players who are not confident in the challenging gameplay, there are also some very useful options in the game.
The lowest difficulty level in the game, "PRACTICE," not only reduces the frequency of enemy bullet fire and removes some of the more difficult enemies, but also provides players with an extra Force at the start of the game or when the player is shot down. In addition, the "PRACTICE" difficulty provides a "bullet time" function. By holding down the R1 button, the game speed will significantly slow down, giving players ample time to think and operate.
Furthermore, new players may consider choosing fighters like the RX-10 Albatross, which can be unlocked early in the game. Its tentacle Force not only has a wider size to block a larger range of bullets but also automatically tracks the nearest enemy after being detached. As a result, the player can defeat bosses by detaching the Force and then hiding in a safe corner, waiting for the Force to shoot down the boss on its own.
A screenshot of the RX-10 Albatross
For those players who want even more, there is the R Museum, which is like a treasure trove featuring over 100 playable fighters. There is the simple and honest R-9A, the R-9 Ø 2 with a 7-charged-level wave cannon that can kill bosses in one shot, and the R-9B bomber that can launch devastated missiles, the TL series that can switch between robot and fighter forms. For R-Type veterans, this is also a museum that records the development of the R-Type series, full of nostalgic memories.
A screenshot of the R Museum in R-Type Final 3 Evolved
Moreover, the game provides rich customization features for the spacecraft’s appearance. Players can customize the colors of the spacecraft and cockpit, and apply various stickers and decorations to the spacecraft in the customization interface. In the future multiplayer lobby and player rooms, we might even be able to show off our favorite fighters to other players.
A screenshot of the customization in R-Type Final 3 Evolved
Overall, R-Type Final 3 Evolved is a challenging and enjoyable game. It is not only an excellent sequel to the R-Type series but also provides many elements that make it easy for new players to get started. For players who love collecting, the game's rich spacecraft and customization features also allow players to unleash their creativity and create their own unique combat spacecraft.