We’ve been seeing a plethora of R-Type re-releases over the past few years, most notably with the recent R-Type Delta HD Boosted. At that time, I really felt that the series had once again reached its pinnacle…with only tiny exception. I literally said, out loud, “So, what about R-Type III: The Third Lightning?” Well, apparently Tozai Games and ININ Games were listening, and here we are with R-Type Dimensions III.
This is one of the most notable games in the series, initially coming out for SNES and shooting its way into “shmup” legend. And now it’s reborn in the best way possible. But be warned – like other R-Type games, it’s an absolute beast. That said, it is nice to have options for rookies, including the quite helpful Infinite Mode.
The gameplay is excellent, especially with the utilization of the additional Forces. But the presentation is the thing. The 3D graphics are remarkable, and you can switch back to the “classic” look without missing a beat. There’s also a “Crazy Camera” option that, like in the original Dimensions, changes perspective in an unexpected way.
In short, R-Type Dimensions III offers something for everyone. Because of that, it absolutely stands out amongst the best in the series.
The R-Type Dimensions Are Once Again Upon Us
Tozai Games (alongside Kritzelkratz 3000) has shown us what they could do with R-Type before with the original Dimensions years ago. I’m happy to report that the formula once again works with Dimensions III, and possibly to a better degree.
There’s a great option here that lets you switch back and forth between HD-enhanced visuals and the classic 16-bit look. And it doesn’t miss a beat – literally. Everything in-game remains the same, a nice trick. And if you want, you can switch to a “Crazy Camera” angle, changing the degree a certain bit so you can see enemies and shots slightly better. That doesn’t mean the game gets any easier though.
Honestly, the polish of the HD remaster is the winner here. Tozai and Kritzelkratz spent so much time getting everything just right that it’s astonishing. The frame rate is relatively smooth (at least, over on Xbox); and the enemy variety is still cool after all these years. You won’t find a better looking game, though Delta HD Boosted is a close second.
As for the music, it’s vintage R-Type, nicely remixed from the original SNES soundtrack. Fans will have no trouble giving this a listen. On top of that, the sound effects are great, especially when you let loose with a dynamic blast. Get the headphones!
R-Type Dimensions III shows progress in the series in a nutshell. Honestly, I can’t see where else it could possibly go from here. (Though, to be fair, the original R-Type Final is still waiting for a second chance…)
So How Does R-Type Dimensions III Play?
Now let’s talk about gameplay…because this is R-Type and it may just literally eat you alive.
This is a challenging series, and Dimensions III is no exception. You’ll need to memorize and dodge like a champ if you want to survive. And that’s where something like Infinite Mode is useful. Here, you continue from where you died, though you’ll have to re-acquire certain power-ups. Those who prefer to work, however, can stick with Normal Mode or really take on the odds with the insane Advanced Mode. Good luck surviving that.
The gameplay has a lot of shoot-em-up fun, but don’t deny the Forces. These are helpful orbs that can either fly freely from your ship or attack for additional firepower. This includes those cool rebounding lasers that can take out side cannons like a champ. However you go about it, you’ll have plenty of firepower – and you’ll need it against some of these absolutely ferocious bosses.
Yes, the game is hard. Like so hard your teeth will practically sweat from it. But there options galore here to make the trip easier – or even harder – if you wish. And it’s great for ININ Games to give players that consideration. Finally, an R-Typegame you stand a chance of beating! (Maybe.)
If you want, you can also play with a buddy in co-op. There are some caveats to this, namely with a hint of slowdown and the lack of an online option. But hey, when you get an option for support, you take it. It’s good to have.
Overall, R-Type Dimensions III feels like the old Lightning release (because it basically is). And fans that have been waiting for it will be richly rewarded. Those that are new to the table, however, won’t be scared off to give it a try.
Enter the New Dimensions
As I’ve stated, the R-Type re-releases have given this series a second chance of life on the home market. And I’m happy to have them. After getting nicely settled in with Delta HD Boosted, we now have R-Type Dimensions III to lean on for the summer, and I highly recommend it. Is it tough as nails? Sure. But it’s welcoming with its features, and won’t necessarily brush off newbies right away. There’s something for everyone here.
Kudos to ININ, Tozai and the others for a great feat. R-Type Dimensions III is here to stay, and deserves a spot in your library. And hopefully they’re cooking up something good with Final. The sky’s the limit, even with the Bydo Empire lurking.
GAMERHUB RATING: 4.5 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to ININ Games and PR Hound for providing us with a review code! The game is available on May 19 for Xbox,PlayStation, Nintendo Switch and PC/Steam! Physical copies will come later this summer.
