The PlayStation 5 release of Rendering Ranger: R² [Rewind] brings back a nearly forgotten piece of gaming history – one that was originally exclusive to Japan despite its European origins. Developed by Rainbow Arts and led by Turrican creator Manfred Trenz, the game became a cult classic due to its limited release and technical ambition, blending run-and-gun platforming with side-scrolling shoot ‘em up gameplay. With Ziggurat handling its modern re-release, players now have access to both the original Super Famicom version and the (previously) unreleased Western build, Targa, through a faithful emulation package.
At its core, Rendering Ranger: R² is a hybrid of two classic action genres – much like the Turrican games were. Roughly half of its nine levels are side-scrolling run-and-gun stages, reminiscent of Contra, while the rest switch things up with fast-paced horizontal shooter segments. The combination creates an exciting rhythm, though the shift in gameplay style can feel abrupt at times. The platforming sections emphasize precise movement and shooting mechanics, while the shoot ‘em up stages demand quick reflexes and strategic use of the game’s weapon upgrades. It’s challenging, and some players may find the lack of clear visual feedback for taking damage frustrating, particularly in chaotic moments where enemies and projectiles flood the screen.
Visually, the game was a technical marvel in 1995, pushing the Super Nintendo’s hardware to its limits with pre-rendered 3D sprites similar to those pretty much only seen in first party titles like Donkey Kong Country. The level of detail remains impressive, even if the aesthetic might not be to everyone’s taste. The animation is fluid, and the massive boss designs stand out as a highlight. That said, the new release doesn’t offer many enhancements beyond basic emulation options, such as save states, rewind, and a filter selection. Given its status as an ultra-rare game, its accessibility alone is a major selling point, but a more feature-rich reissue (perhaps with more museum-like content) would have been welcome.
The game’s audio design complements its fast-paced action with an energetic soundtrack that fits both the run-and-gun and shoot ‘em up segments. While the music is engaging, some sound design choices feel dated, particularly in how damage is communicated to the player. A stronger emphasis on audio feedback would have made enemy attacks and environmental hazards easier to track, and the music doesn’t live up to the standard set by Turrican either.
While Rendering Ranger: R² remains a well-crafted game, its difficulty is not for the faint of heart. Even with modern conveniences like rewind, it remains a tough experience that demands skill and persistence. Those who appreciate Turrican or Contra-style action will likely enjoy the challenge, while others may find it too punishing. The re-release itself is functional but barebones, lacking any substantial behind-the-scenes content or historical insights beyond a standard manual and gallery.
For fans of retro action games, Rendering Ranger: R² [Rewind] is an exciting return of a lost classic. Its blend of run-and-gun and shoot ‘em up mechanics remains engaging, and the game’s technical achievements still impress decades later. However, as an emulation package, it offers little beyond the original experience, making it a worthwhile purchase for enthusiasts but a harder sell for those seeking extras beyond the core game.
Score: 7.0/10
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