The original R-type is a fairly simple side-scrolling shooter, and fairly fun as well. The sequels expanded upon the series, but for the true R-type experience, you have to download and play the original. With eight levels to play through and some fairly challenging bosses at the end of each level, R-type is sure to keep you entertained, at least for a while.
In R-type, you control a ship called the R9 to destroy the evil Bydo empire, and use several tools at your disposal to do so, including the very powerful Force Orb weapon to not only protect yourself, but to eliminate your enemies as well.
Throughout the game, you will be able to obtain power-ups and missiles to make your campaign a bit easier to finish, but trust me; you will die plenty of times. The game was released on many different systems, ranging from the amiga to the Turbo Duo and the Sega Master System, as well as the game boy, with a few differences between the games.
The controls are quite simple, so the game can be picked up and played by pretty much anyone. A simple interface of move and shoot makes this a quick game to get into, without much of a challenge in learning how to play the game like more modern games. The difficulty of the game can vary at times, depending
on how well you play games such as these and how patient you are. Dodging bullets and firing missiles will be commonplace in this game, unless you are one of those few who feel the need to cheat.
The graphics are outdated by today’s standards, and while the GBA remake of R-Type III puts the earlier versions and games to shame, nothing is better than playing the original game instead of some updated remake with too many changes to list. Despite the dated graphics, the game still looks good, and the effects are pretty good for a game of its type and age.
While the game is dated, and leaves something to be desired, it is none-the-less a fun game to play when you have little else to do, and it can be completed in a single setting with some ease. Several challenging levels to play through and possibly a couple secret areas as well (Depending on the version), along with many power-ups and several different Force Orbs make this game very entertaining and easy to pick up and play.
A recommended title, if you're looking for a game of this genre. If I were to give this game a numbered rating, it would be 7 out of 10.
