Play the revived HD remaster of "R-Type Delta." For the first time, Δ (Delta) is finally playable in modern environments [TGS2025]

At the City Connection booth during Tokyo Game Show 2025, I had the chance to try out the shooting game “R-Type Delta: HD Boosted” (available on PC / PS5 / Xbox Series X|S / Nintendo Switch / PS4).

This title is an HD remaster of the 1998 PlayStation release “R-TYPE Δ (Delta)”, scheduled for release on November 20, 2025. It has been carefully polished with a focus on “cleaning up original assets as-is,” preserving the atmosphere of the original while delivering a beautiful visual upgrade.

Image Gallery No.001 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]
Image Gallery No.002 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]
Image Gallery No.003 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]

Set one year after the story of the original “R-TYPE”, in the year 2163: The R-9 Arrowhead, a dimensional combat aircraft, has defeated the evil Baid Empire!

In the year 2164, mysterious objects are observed falling to Earth. Simultaneously, the self-defense systems of long-sealed extinction weapons begin malfunctioning.

Faced with this threat from their own creations, humanity deploys R-combat aircraft—the successor to Arrowhead—known as the R-9A2 Delta.

This incident would later be remembered in history as the “Satanic Rhapsody” event—an unprecedented crisis for mankind.

That is the story of this game. Fans who clicked on it just because of the “R-TYPE” name have likely already re-experienced much of this narrative through titles like “R-TYPE FINAL.”

Image Gallery No.004 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]
Image Gallery No.005 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]
Image Gallery No.006 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]
Image Gallery No.007 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]

For me, “R-TYPE Δ” belongs among the three classic PlayStation shooting games. While the other two—“Ainhamnder” and “Omega Boost”—might spark debate, I’ll emphasize that this is merely my personal preference during a festive mood.

That aside: For over a decade, playing the original Δ was nearly impossible outside of archival access or using actual hardware. Only those willing to dig up their old PS1 from storage would attempt it—a rare few indeed.

Now, however, thanks to this HD remaster, we can finally play it in modern environments. While there’s bittersweetness in that, the value doesn’t lie in hoarding nostalgia—true worth emerges when a game becomes accessible beyond its original prestige.

With my personal musings out of the way, let me share my impressions from the demo.

Image Gallery No.008 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]

This is a straightforward side-scrolling shooter. Players control their craft, moving it up/down/left/right to obliterate the grotesque alien lifeforms known as “Baid”—creatures born from fusion of biological and mechanical entities. No mercy for these malevolent beings that cannot communicate. Eliminate them all in service of humanity.

A hallmark feature of the R-TYPE series is the ability to charge shots for a powerful “Wave Cannon.” In this game, each of the three selectable R-combat aircraft (plus one extra) has unique Wave Cannon properties—some even utilizing cutting-edge technology that doesn’t rely on wave energy. The power to forge new paths comes entirely from innovative tech.

Additionally, the “Force,” an invincible weapon, protects the craft from attacks coming from front and rear. By collecting optional items, Force’s abilities can be customized. It also fires “Force Shots” capable of dealing massive damage to Baid enemies.

Furthermore, in this version, by colliding the Force with enemy ships or bullets, players can activate a screen-clearing attack equivalent to a bomb: “Δ-Weapon.”

Master these mechanics and completely annihilate all evil Baid forces.

Image Gallery No.009 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]
Image Gallery No.010 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]

The available aircraft include the standard R-combat craft “R-9A2 Delta” and the experimental Force prototype “RX Albatoros.”

But if you’re choosing, of course it’s the cutting-edge machine: “R-13 Cerberus!”

Image Gallery No.011 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]

This black-and-red machine is the ultimate lightning weapon, equipped with an automated Baid-searching system and a flawless Lightning Wave Cannon—zero weaknesses. A magnificent next-generation craft born from scientists’ unwavering dedication to humanity, crossing the Rubicon in spirit.

Its claw-like anchors are forged using the very destructive impulses of the Baid themselves—a wild, biologically intense design that evokes images of a guardian dog deep within a dark forest.

When playing R-Type Delta, no machine is more dependable than this one. If you wish to utterly eradicate every last trace of evil Baid and return in glorious triumph—then R-13 Cerberus is the only choice. Don’t you think so too?

Image Gallery No.012 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]

Image Gallery No.013 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]
Image Gallery No.014 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]

The charm of the original “R-TYPE Δ” lies not only in its setting—something I’ve already touched upon—but also, personally, in its controls, movement responsiveness, and shot feedback.

Unfortunately, I’ve struggled for years to articulate this feeling. So instead of a detailed comparison with other games or relying on random sound effects that come to mind, let me just say:
When playing “R-TYPE Δ,” the gameplay feels swift and snappy—unlike earlier series entries. While it retains the lightness typical of early PS polygon shooters (which can feel more weightless than heavy), its sense of speed is distinct.

Still, compared to the original “R-TYPE FINAL,” this game delivers a far superior shooting sensation. I’ll say it again: even though I thoroughly enjoyed the original FINAL all the way through—exactly because I did so, and only those who’ve played it will truly understand—I’m confident that Δ remains the peak of R-TYPE from 2000 to 2010. There’s just something satisfying about its crispness—the feel when shooting Baid is excellent.

Now, how does this HD remaster stack up? I still can’t put it into words clearly—but upon playing, I thought: “Ah yes, that’s Delta—probably.” While my memory of the original may be clouded after not playing for so long, I did feel something distinctly like Δ.

That said, I also sensed the game was running faster. This might just be age-related perception, but according to developers, certain scenes previously plagued by slowdown are now rendered flawlessly without lag. So some players might even think: “Back then it used to stutter—wasn’t that easier?” (In shooters, slower performance is often a blessing.)

Image Gallery No.015 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]
Image Gallery No.016 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]
Image Gallery No.017 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]
Image Gallery No.018 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]

Functionally, players can still adjust their ship’s speed mid-stage. Even at maximum velocity, there are no terrain collision errors—meaning lower risk. You can fully enjoy the unique control feel that only Δ offers: gliding precisely along complex terrains.

Graphics have been upgraded to HD and support 60fps. Players can switch back to original quality settings or use “EXPANSION” mode, which removes black bars on screen while maintaining aspect ratio.

Additionally, a “PRACTICE” feature allows players to finely tune their ship’s upgrades and start practicing at any point in a stage—even mid-stage. This is available only for cleared stages but includes the option to practice against bosses alone.

This function will undoubtedly be invaluable for beginners—and an absolute dream for veterans. That said, it may dull the tension unique to completing levels straight through, so some seasoned players might choose to avoid using it altogether.

Of course, long-time foes like the malevolent Baid enemies, stage 1’s standout boss “Moritz G,” and iconic series figures such as “Dopkeledopps” all receive a lavish HD makeover.

Image Gallery No.019 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]
Image Gallery No.020 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]

Though the crowded venue made it impossible to focus on audio, this game features contributions from Masahiko Ishida, who composed music for “R-TYPE II” and “Image Fight,” sound production company USP (original R-TYPE soundtrack), and Chris Huelsbeck, known for Amiga/C64 versions of “R-TYPE.”

Furthermore, BGMs can be toggled between arranged and original versions—comforting news for longtime fans.

Additionally, a special talk event featuring the producer and director will take place at the booth on September 27. They’ll share behind-the-scenes stories and creative insights alongside members from the original development team.

For those interested, 4Gamer has already released selected excerpts from an exclusive interview with developers of the original PS version of “R-TYPE Δ” that appear in the official fanbook included with premium editions: read here.

As the fifth title in City Connection’s game restoration project “Memory Clip,” “R-TYPE DX: Music Encore”—set for release this winter—is also on display nearby.

Image Gallery No.022 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]
Image Gallery No.023 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]
Image Gallery No.024 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]
Image Gallery No.025 thumbnail / Playing the revived HD remaster of “R-TYPE DELTA”. Finally, Delta can be played in modern environments [TGS2025]

I love the R-13 Cerberus. Many affectionately call it “Ker-chan” or “Kero-chan.” Though I personally prefer “R-9/0 Ragnarock (R9 Slash Zero Ragnarock)”.

Regardless, in the history of the R-TYPE series, the impact left by the invincible, all-powerful symbol of humanity—R-13 Cerberus—is immense. Its heroic legacy will continue to inspire people for generations, even far into the future.

So let’s meet again at Tokyo Game Show: R-13 Cerberus, R-9A2 Delta, and RX Albatoros—the humble craft with ordinary Wave Cannons. I believe this game will once again bind someone to chains of nightmare…