R-Type is a classic shoot’em up series and one of the premiere series of the genres. The games have been around for decades, and fans have always had a love for them, especially when it comes to the earlier titles. A remake of the first two games entitled R-Type Dimensions was released a few years ago, but the enhanced version of the remake, R-Type Dimensions EX is perhaps one of the best examples of how to update a classic title for modern systems. Available on Switch, PS4, PC and more, R-Ty[e Dimensions EX is a game for shoot’em up fans, by shoot’em up fans.
R-Type Dimensions EX is an interesting game. It manages to completely recreate the classic games’ exact moodiness in HD and even adds an option to just play with the original visuals and soundtrack. What is new here though is the gameplay, as minor and major changes both occur in this release, that fans will enjoy. Minor changes include adjustments of speed and better hit detection for instance, to make the game flow a lot better. The slowdown from some versions is gone completely, and the result is a more focused game where your attacks matter a lot more. In addition, the game’s classic soundtrack music is also fixed compared to the original release, so it sounds much nicer as well. All the minor issues have been ironed out and the music now sounds like the music you remember hearing back then, rather than the sound you had actually heard all those years ago.
The bigger changes include new modes, such as an infinite mode. This mode definitely has the game play easier, but that is a relative concept when it comes to R-Type. I view this less as an easy mode, and as a more relaxed mode. You are less frantic about avoiding getting hit, but your focus then shifts to getting as good a high score as possible. rather than acting as a mode for those who cannot handle the challenge, this mode changes the objective of the game and gives you the means to focus on that objective and replay the game as many times as you possibly can.
In addition, R-Type Dimensions EX has an amazing modernized soundtrack that feels like a proper update of the original music with modern sounds. You can always listen to the original soundtrack ( or rather the fixed original soundtrack), but the new soundtrack is excellent as well. The developers of the game made the right choices here, with what to update and what to leave well enough alone. The addition of the classic visuals and soundtrack also ensures no one will feel left out with the presentation quality.
This is an amazing shoot’em up that every shmup fans should play. Not just because it is a remaster of a true arcade gem, but also because it is an incredibly fun experience. This is great for both long sessions and quick sessions, and for retro gamers and new gamers, not to mention casual and hardcore gamers. It bridges many gaps and does so with style. I highly recommend it.
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