R-Type Dimensions III

The legendary side-scrolling shoot ’em up returns — bigger, bolder, and far more dangerous than ever before on Nintendo Switch.

R-Type Dimensions III is a full-scale reimagining of R-Type III: The Third Lightning, Irem’s cult 1993 console-exclusive masterpiece. Every infamous stage, every grotesque Bydo monstrosity, every cruel trap and rotating biomechanical nightmare has been rebuilt with modern 3D graphics, a rearranged soundtrack, and an arsenal of new features. Yet beneath the new polish beats the same sadistic heart of the SNES classic.

Fans of the original will feel right at home — and completely terrified.

As the pilot of the cutting-edge R-90 “Ragnarok”, you embark on the Third Bydo Mission armed with Wave Cannons, Bits, and one of the most defining mechanics in shmup history: the Force unit. The original R-Type III was the first in the series to introduce multiple Force types (Round, Shadow, and Cyclone), each radically altering how the game is played. These return here in stunning detail, with effects and animations faithful to their 16-bit personalities.

Now, more than 30 years later, you can experience this classic in two completely different dimensions — instantly.

With the push of a button, swap between authentic pixel-perfect 2D visuals and fully reimagined 3D graphics, complete with dynamic lighting, modern effects, animated environments, and cinematic camera flourishes.

No loading. No interruption. Just pure dimensional shift.

For hardcore fans, this remake includes nods to the original SNES secrets, visual homages to Tamtex’s clever Mode 7 trickery, reinterpreted boss-entry animations, and environmental details inspired by Japanese design notes and old developer commentary. (Yes, that infamous Stage 2 censorship oddity? It’s referenced in a clever way. Yes, the lava labyrinth in Stage 4 is still agonizing. No, the Force pod still won’t protect you from everything.)

Prepare to face the Bydo as you’ve never seen them before — or exactly as you remember them.

Either way, you’re going to die. A lot.