Fans of scrolling arcade shooters such as R-Type already know what to expect, likely already owning the 1999 original release. Limited Run Games have acquired the rights to bring back the classic collection of five releases. Just, there is not a lot here for anyone that is less than a diehard R-Type fan.
The Features You Pay For
Limited Run Games are releasing R-Type DX on their “Cosmic Cartridge”. After spending several minutes on Google and the LRG website, I have no clue what a cosmic cartridge is and the press release for R-Type DX offers ZERO details. So, I guess this is at least good somehow?
You will get 2 games and three variations total with your R-Type DX pre-order.
R-Type (Monochrome)
R-Type II (Monochrome)
R-Type (Color Enhanced)
R-Type II (Color Enhanced)
and finally,
R-Type DX Mode (only for the Game Boy Color).
R-Type DX Mode simply combines both R-Type 1 and 2 into one long game. This mode offers batter save checkpoints to help make the journey easier.
Additionally, R-Type DX by Limited Run Games will feature deluxe numbered hard-cover packaging. The artwork is new, this time done by Paul “Otaking” Johnson. There will also be a full color instruction manual included.
Very Little Different from Original Release
Outside the new artwork on the cartridge and presentation of the cartridge, there is nothing to warrant this purchase. If you are a diehard R-Type fan, then it may be worth it. Considering how fast most Limited Run Games releases sell out, you may need to hit up eBay via my affiliate link which is not likely to be your cheapest option, unless you are fine with cartridge only (complete is over $125 for the original release).
I am slightly flabbergasted that R-Type DX is worth so much in the aftermarket, well, market.
What scrolling shooter did you rock? I was a huge fan of R-Type in arcades, loved the SNES Super R-Type and R-Type III but never touched the Game Boy releases myself.