R-Type III: The Third Lightning (1993)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

R-Type III: The Third Lightning (1993)

R-Type III: The Third Lightning is a side-scrolling shoot-’em-up arcade game developed and published by Irem in 1993. It is the third game in the R-Type series, and was released on the Irem M92 hardware. The game was ported to the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1994, and to the Sega Saturn and PlayStation in 1995.

Gameplay

R-Type III retains the core gameplay of its predecessors, with players controlling a starship called the R-90 through a series of side-scrolling levels. The R-90 is equipped with a detachable laser unit, which can be used to fire in front of or behind the ship. Players can also collect power-ups to enhance their ship’s weapons and abilities.

One of the new features in R-Type III is the ability to select from three different types of laser units at the start of the game. Each laser unit offers different laser types depending on the power-ups collected. For example, the “Wave” laser unit fires a spread of lasers that can home in on enemies, while the “Reflect” laser unit fires lasers that can bounce off walls.

R-Type III also features a new “Force” system. The Force is a powerful energy field that can be used to protect the R-90 from enemy fire. The Force can also be used to attack enemies, by releasing a powerful shockwave.

Levels

R-Type III consists of six side-scrolling levels. The levels are set in a variety of environments, including space, underwater, and inside a giant alien creature. Each level is filled with a variety of enemies, including Bydo fighters, ground troops, and bosses.

The bosses in R-Type III are particularly challenging, and often require players to use specific strategies to defeat them. For example, the first boss, the Dobkeratops, is a giant dinosaur-like creature that fires lasers from its mouth. To defeat the Dobkeratops, players must use the Force to deflect its lasers and then attack its weak point.

Graphics and sound

R-Type III is a visually impressive game for its time. The graphics are colorful and detailed, and the levels are充滿了intricate backgrounds. The game also features a memorable soundtrack, which includes both orchestral and electronic music.

Reception

R-Type III was a critical and commercial success. The arcade version of the game was praised for its graphics, gameplay, and challenge. The SNES port was also well-received, although it was criticized for its slowdown and choppy graphics.

R-Type III is considered to be one of the best shoot-’em-ups of all time. It is a challenging and rewarding game that offers a unique and memorable experience.

Legacy

R-Type III has had a lasting impact on the shoot-’em-up genre. The game’s innovative gameplay and stunning graphics have influenced many subsequent shoot-’em-ups. R-Type III is also remembered for its challenging difficulty, which has made it a favorite among hardcore gamers.

The R-Type series continues to be popular today, with the latest installment, R-Type Final 2, being released in 2021. R-Type III remains a classic shoot-’em-up that is still enjoyed by gamers today.

Conclusion

R-Type III: The Third Lightning is a classic side-scrolling shoot-’em-up that still holds up today. With its challenging gameplay, beautiful graphics, and memorable soundtrack, R-Type III is a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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