12DOVE Verdict
Pros
- +
Still plays solidly
- +
Provides relief from difficulty
- +
Swap between old and new graphics
Cons
- -
Ego-destroying without infinite lives
- -
Appears somewhat quaint
- -
Won't amuse for long
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You’d be forgiven for thinking that R-Type consisted of just one level; one rock hard level that, with your paltry three lives, you’d never seen the end of. R-Type is a gaming Everest; you’d climb it, carve your initials on the high score table and then swagger off, content with your life.
Well, no more. With this 3D bundling of R-Types I and II, it’s now possible for mere mortals to complete thanks to a welcome new game mode that bestows you with infinite lives. The 3D treatment’s a bit bland but you can swap out the original and remade sprites at any time by pressing Y. It’s more amusing than you’d imagine; a telling real-time demo of how far graphics have come in two decades.
Dozens of Live’s retro remakes are shallow and outdone by modern titles but R-Type’s inspired bosses and weapons remain strong to this day. Nearly every side-scrolling shooter released in its wake owes it a considerable debt, but R-Type plays as good as any of them and for that reason alone, it’s still worthy of your time.
Feb 4, 2009
More info
| Genre | Shooter |
| Description | At one time it was called the perfect shooter, the R-Type series is showing its age with this Xbox Live Arcade translation, though it still offers some good times. |
| Platform | Xbox 360 |
| US censor rating | Everyone |
| Release date | 4 February 2009 (US), 4 February 2009 (UK) |
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