R-Type: Delta
- Publisher
- AGETEC
- Developer
- ASCII
- Genre
- Shooter
- Players
- 1
- Platform
- PlayStation
- Release Date
- August 1999
- Peripherals
- Analog, Memory Card
The Lowdown
Over a hundred years in the future, the planet Earth is threatened by the evil alien Bydo Empire. As part of Earth’s defense force, it’s your job to welcome them with some spectacular “fire works.” Pilot one of three selectable ships (R-Types) through gorgeous 3-D landscapes in traditional side-scroller fashion. Tons of weapons and power-ups are at your disposal to light up the screen and the ponderous number of enemies. Gigantic bosses, explosions, and weapons add to the visual tour de force. Twitch-Game addicts (you know who you are) will experience pure bliss when they play this game.
The Good
This is easily the best looking side-scrolling shooter ever, out doing even SquareSoft’s Einhander. The scenery is highly detailed and beautiful. It really captures the feel of the 2-D games of old, only with added depth. There are loads of animations going on all at once, and the overall effect is mesmerizing. The all around presentation is done very well with a techno / anime style.
Gameplay is intense, as it should be. Unless you’re a Jedi master, this game will require every shred of your attention. Power-ups take the form of a force pod which can be attached to either the front or back of your craft. Different force-pods have different effects on your weaponry. For instance, one allows you to shoot fire orbs that incinerate anything in their path, while another shoots ricocheting laser beams. You can also shoot the force-pod itself at enemies and reattach it (it’s on a tether-line). At anytime you can power up your force bar and discharge a devastating burst of energy. Plus, each of the selectable R-Types has a different force weapon to unleash. The gigantic bosses are bristling with weaponry and when you aren’t busy taking them out, you’ve got to deal with a torrent of smaller attackers (and sometimes both).
The Bad & The Ugly
RT: Delta is definitely the most difficult shooter I’ve ever played. The most hardened of twitch fans will find it seriously challenging to beat, even on easy. This game is way to hard for the beginning or casual gamer. In fact, it’s almost too hard for our staff… on easy!!! The only other minor gripe I have with this title is that even though overall it is gorgeous, some the textures are rough and a little primitive looking.
The Verdict
Although insanely difficult, twitch fans will love it. As many times as you’ll die, it is strangely addictive. If you like side scrolling shooters at all, then this is your bag. The casual gamer should definitely rent before buying. They don’t come any better than this, just easier.
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Nice review
Cool!