R-Type for Android takes you way back to the '80s with its classic humans-versus-aliens storyline and retro shoot-'em-up style of game play. Because it's more or less unchanged from its arcade predecessor, R-Type is sure to keep you hooked for hours at a time, just as it did when you were younger.
While there is a rich plot that drives R-Type, its details are relatively inconsequential. All you need to know is that you are piloting a futuristic star ship, and your primary objective is to kill aliens...lots and lots of aliens.
To begin, your ship is slow and relatively impotent, with its puny, single-stream laser. But have no fear, because the most fun part of R-Type is collecting power-ups and upgrading your ship. As you fly through levels, you'll find speed-ups, weapon upgrades, and, best of all, Force power-ups. Unique to R-Type, Force power-ups are essentially small, indestructible pods that either attach to your ship or fly independently (your choice). They are equipped with their own weapons, so they're perfect for sending into enemy territories that might otherwise be dangerous to enter.
R-Type's controls are surprisingly smooth, and come in two different styles. Arcade puts a small joypad on the bottom of your screen, while Touch lets you tap and grab anywhere to move your ship. In either case, there are buttons for charging up your cannon and for deploying your Force pod on the bottom of your screen. You can even choose between left or right orientation to suit your dexterity. Also, we suggest leaving the Autofire option on. It saves you from having to repeatedly mash your screen, and lets you focus on controlling your ship.
R-Type for Android is a pitch-perfect reincarnation of the old-school arcade hit made popular in the '80s. Its controls are smooth, graphics are sharp, and gameplay is just as we remember it. That said, we think this paid Android app should delight retro fans and new-school gamers alike.
Shop your favorite products and we’ll find the best deal with a single click. Designed to make shopping easier.