R-Type
One ship, one indestructible orb and a biomechanical empire straight out of your nightmares.
Coming soon to UsuArcade
Votes to bring it to the arcade: 0
In the meantime, head into the arcade and play the cabinets that are already there
- Year
- 1987
- Manufacturer
- Irem
- Players
- 2 players, alternating turns
- Genres
- Shoot 'em ups
- Decade
- '80s arcade games
R-Type was the cabinet that commanded respect. Its dark, organic graphics looked like they came out of an R-rated sci-fi flick, and the bosses filled half the screen. Anyone who made it to stage three always had a crowd behind them.
Sure, it was hard, but the kind of hard that convinces you the next quarter is the one.
History
Irem released it in 1987, and it became one of the most influential side-scrolling shooters ever made. Its biomechanical look, with creatures and machines fused together, left a mark on the whole genre.
Its success led to a long-running series and ports to a pile of home computers and consoles of the era.
How to play
You fly the R-9 fighter in a side-scrolling battle against the Bydo Empire. Hold the fire button to charge your Wave Cannon, then let go to unleash a beam that rips through enemies.
The big idea is the Force: an orb you can attach to the front or back of your ship, or launch to fight on its own. It's indestructible, blocks a lot of fire and changes depending on which colored crystal you grab, giving you different lasers. Knowing when to keep it in front, swap it to the back or send it flying is the key to every stage.
Fun facts
- You can fling the Force at enemies and call it back afterward.
- The first big boss, Dobkeratops, is one of the most recognizable creatures in shooter history.
- One full stage is a battle against a single gigantic warship.
In the arcade
R-Type is on the UsuArcade wishlist, coming soon to the lounge. Vote with the 'I want to play it' button to move it up.
Meanwhile, you can play shooters like Slap Fight, Aero Fighters or 1943: The Battle of Midway in the lounge, with chat, live spectators and an arcade high score board.
FAQ
Can I play R-Type at UsuArcade?
Not yet. It's on the wishlist, coming soon. You can vote for it with 'I want to play it.'
What year did R-Type come out?
1987, from Irem.
What is the Force in R-Type?
An indestructible orb that attaches to the front or back of your ship or launches to fight on its own. It blocks shots and changes weapons depending on the crystal you pick up.
How many players is R-Type?
One or two players, alternating turns.
What similar games are in the lounge?
Slap Fight, Aero Fighters and 1943: The Battle of Midway.
