R-Types is a PS1 compilation of the first two R-Type games by Irem, foundational horizontal shmups. Both classics with their attachable Force and demanding gameplay are well preserved. A precious collection for horizontal shmup fans and genre history enthusiasts on PS1.
Your verdict
Category
Shooter2 players7+
Description
Japanese Irem compilation gathering R-Type and R-Type II, classic horizontally-scrolling shoot them ups. Created by Irem, released in 1998 in Japan, 1999 in the United States and Europe under the R-Types title. Compilation of the two original arcade R-Types emulated, classic horizontal scrolling, ship armed with the Force satellite and original chiptune soundtrack. Multi-regional edition under the R-Types title.
R-Types review
3/5
Art direction
★★★★★
"Polished"
2/5
Music
★★★★★
"Decent"
2/5
Story
★★★★★
"Classic"
Gameplay
"Excellent"
Fun
"Mild"
Addictiveness
"Light"
Difficulty
"Punishing"
A compilation of the two original arcade R-Type games, it gathers some of the genre's most demanding work: lethal scenery, enemies appearing without warning and the need to learn every screen by heart. Mastering the Force pod becomes a science of its own. Uncompromising but cult, it suits enthusiasts ready to face the horizontal shooter in its harshest form.
A compilation of the first two R-Type games in careful ports, gathering the Irem arcade classics in a console package with progressive level unlocking. Still common in the West, its interest lies in this heritage grouping rather than scarcity, the Japanese version being a bit less widespread. A prime piece for fans of shmups from the arcade's golden age.
Better with friends
A compilation of cult side-scrolling shooters of merciless design, where you pass the pad to clear passages made famous by their difficulty. Score rivalry reigns: who'll get further, who'll best memorize the deadly traps? Hard yet heady, it turns each session into a shared challenge where you cheer each other on and every bit of progress is celebrated together.
Is R-Types still worth playing in 2026?
Released in 1998 on PS1, Irem's compilation gathers R-Type and R-Type II in versions very faithful to their respective arcade originals. The biomechanical levels, the massive bosses and the detachable Force system keep their impeccable readability. The presentation offers scanline and pad configuration options that please the demanding eye. The difficulty stays demanding and a few sound effects show age. Recommended today for fans of classical horizontal shoot 'em ups, for Irem devotees and for PS1 collectors looking for a solid entry point to the R-Type lineage on the original PlayStation.
