R-Type tops the list as a classic example of the Shoot ‘em Up genre, with its reputation for being a notoriously difficult shooter to master.
The series has graced many different consoles with its multiple incarnations over the years. R-Type Dimensions is an HD update of both the original arcade release of R-Type and R-Type II with 3D graphics and a reworked soundtrack.
Previously released in 2009 on Xbox LIVE Arcade, Dimensions has now made its way to the PS3 with a few new additions including the ability to customize the controller to your personal preference. This HD version features Co-Op Mode and Leaderboards so you can share your progress. Gamers who wish to experience the world of R-Type without the unforgiving three life limit, have the option to choose between Classic Mode and Infinite Mode.
As pilot of the R-9 you will make your way through 8 levels of the original R-Type and 6 levels of R-Type II. Stages are fundamentally the same as its classic counterpart, but you now have the ability to choose between the sleek 3D models or the beloved 2D sprites with an option to switch between modes mid-game with the push of a button. The ambient musical tracks also change as you select between the different visual styles alternating from revamped to retro.
A new camera angle amply titled “Crazy” presents an off kilter perspective that adds some variety to gameplay. As you battle hordes of Bydo minions with a combination of regular fire, rapid fire, and a lethal plasma canon, you now have the ability to bring time to a crawl with the Slow Motion feature. With this you can plan your next move carefully when the screen becomes jam-packed with enemy crossfire.
An abundance of Power Ups are also scattered across each level each offering a unique advantage. If you can manage to avoid getting hit the Power Ups combine to make you a powerful member of the galactic fleet. I was surprised at how much patience was required to carefully navigate around platforms and enemies throughout the maze-like stages. A slow and methodical approach resulted in more lives saved than constantly firing a barrage of bullets.
The re-playability of R-Type Dimensions is moderately high as there are a variety of objectives to complete in both Infinite Mode and Classic Mode. On my first play-through I was able to complete both parts in under an hour using the Infinite Mode option, where you re-spawn at the beginning of the same area an unlimited number of times. In this mode your aim is to use as few lives as possible to complete levels. Playing through in Classic Mode would take considerably more time as you only have three lives and you restart after taking damage at the last checkpoint you came across which is often quite far back.
The ability to play with a friend locally also adds to the fun as you can rack up kills while competing against one another or work together to gather up points. I found myself constantly flipping between the 2D and 3D styles because of the fluid transition from one to the next was quite enjoyable to see and made replaying levels more interesting. I was convinced Shoot em’ Ups were too difficult for me to ever fully enjoy but the choices in R-Type Dimensions gives gamers from a wide variety of backgrounds a chance to enjoy this genre that was once reserved for the hardcore few.
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