R-Type
Video Archive
R-Type – How Did Manfred Trenz Fit Irem’s Arcade Shooter Into the C64?
️ R-Type (1988) – Commodore 64 Shoot ’Em Up | Arcade Classic on 8-Bit R-Type is the 1988 Commodore 64 port of Irem’s legendary arcade “force-ship” shooter, published by Electric Dreams / Rainbow Arts and coded by Manfred Trenz. In the game, you pilot the iconic R-9 “Arrowhead” spacecraft through eight intense horizontally-scrolling stages, battling the alien Bydo Empire, navigating hazardous terrain, and facing massive biomechanical bosses. Your arsenal includes rapid-fire shots, a powerful chargeable wave cannon, and the game’s signature feature — the indestructible “Force” orb. Attach it, detach it, or deploy it freely to act as both shield and weapon platform. The C64 conversion delivers fast gameplay and smooth scrolling, outperforming many other 8-bit shooters of its era. Atmospheric visuals, detailed sci-fi environments, and an outstanding soundtrack by Chris Hülsbeck and Ramiro Vaca add to the experience.
Game Overview
About the Game
️ R-Type (1988) – Commodore 64 Shoot ’Em Up | Arcade Classic on 8-Bit R-Type is the 1988 Commodore 64 port of Irem’s legendary arcade “force-ship” shooter, published by Electric Dreams / Rainbow Arts and coded by Manfred Trenz. In the game, you pilot the iconic R-9 “Arrowhead” spacecraft through eight intense horizontally-scrolling stages, battling the alien Bydo Empire, navigating hazardous terrain, and facing massive biomechanical bosses. Your arsenal includes rapid-fire shots, a powerful chargeable wave cannon, and the game’s signature feature — the indestructible “Force” orb. Attach it, detach it, or deploy it freely to act as both shield and weapon platform. The C64 conversion delivers fast gameplay and smooth scrolling, outperforming many other 8-bit shooters of its era. Atmospheric visuals, detailed sci-fi environments, and an outstanding soundtrack by Chris Hülsbeck and Ramiro Vaca add to the experience.
Game Manual
Magazine Reviews
Magazine Reviews
Magazine Reviews
Magazine Reviews · 8
Contemporary average 64% · range 40–82.1%
ACE
Reviewed by Activision full-price release
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Reviewed by The Hit Squad budget release
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Zzap!64
Reviewed by The Hit Squad budget release
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Zzap!64
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Game Music
Game Music
Original Cassette
Tape Archive
Verified C64 cassette releases linked to the Ultimate Tape Archive. CCG does not host or duplicate the tape files.
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