R-Type Final 3: Evolved is a 2D scrolling shooter game from NIS America that combines its traditional gameplay style with an updated twist and gorgeous modern day visuals. Developed and published by Granzella Inc, the game is the third and final installment in the R-Type Final series, with the original R-Type arcade game dating back to 1987. Does it live up the name of the legendary franchise? We checked it out on a PlayStation 5 to find out.
The finely tuned and designed gameplay is where R-Type Final 3: Evolved shines most brightly. It’s a challenging game that requires skill and precision, with tight controls that feel responsive and satisfying. The well designed levels are filled with obstacles and enemies that require careful navigation and strategic use of weapons. The game has a variety of weapons to blast away with, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This allows players to experiment with different play styles and find what works best for them.
One aspect that definitely stands out as well are the game’s graphics, which are gorgeous in a time where so few arcade shooters get a premium treatment and go with retro and/or bullet hell route. R-Type Final 3: Evolved has stunning visuals, with beautifully detailed levels and smooth animations. The game’s art style is a mix of old-school pixel art and modern graphics, creating a unique aesthetic that is pleasing to the eye that is both modern and evokes memories of the classic arcade originals. The game also has a variety of different environments, from the depths of space to underwater caverns, each with its own distinct look and feel.
What we also want to touch on is the game’s sound design. The game has a great soundtrack, with adrenaline-pumping tunes that match the game’s fast-paced action and solid sound effects, making this is audiovisual feast when played over a decent set of speakers on a big screen.
The game also has an extensive customization system, which allows players to personalize their ships with different colors and designs. For those who enjoy that kind of thing, this adds a lot of replay value to the game. The game also has a variety of different ships to choose from, each with its own unique abilities and attributes, so even if you’re not into cosmetic changes there’s a reason to play this one again and again.
R-Type Final 3: Evolved can be quite difficult, with a steep learning curve that may put off some players. This is particularly true in the later levels, where the game’s difficulty ramps up significantly and genre novices can hit a figurative wall. The game also has a limited number of lives if you go for an authentic arcade experience, so players who enjoy a challenge will find R-Type Final 3: Evolved to be a rewarding experience.
One area where R-Type Final 3: Evolved differs from the arcade origins that kickstarted the genre is that it has a bigger emphasis on story. It may not be the most elaborate or multi-layered story you’ll run into, but it’s fun to get more out of a campaign like this than you’d normally expect from a shooter like this.
R-Type Final 3: Evolved is a great addition to the R-Type franchise and a must-play for fans of the franchise, with tight gameplay and stunning visuals. The game’s customization system and variety of ships add a lot of replay value, and the soundtrack and sound effects are excellent. The game’s difficulty may be a turn-off for some players, but those who enjoy a challenge will find the game to be a rewarding experience. While the game’s story may not be its strongest aspect, it still adds an extra layer of depth to the game’s world and fans of the R-Type franchise and 2D scrolling shooter games in general should definitely give R-Type Final 3: Evolved a try. Modern takes on the classic arcade shoot ’em up are a rare breed these days, and this is a great example.
Score: 8.0/10
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