R-Type Command Review for the PlayStation Portable (PSP)

System: PSP	Review Rating Legend
Dev: Irem Software Engineering	1.0 - 1.9 = Avoid	4.0 - 4.4 = Great
Pub: Atlus USA	2.0 - 2.4 = Poor	4.5 - 4.9 = Must Buy
Release: May 6, 2008	2.5 - 2.9 = Average	5.0 = The Best
Players: 1-2	3.0 - 3.4 = Fair
ESRB Rating: Everyone	3.5 - 3.9 = Good

To keep you interested in the overall story, each level begins with your character's voice log. Despite their title, these logs actually contain no audio recounting. They are just pages out of a torn-up diary that continually emphasize how the odds are against you. They don't really push you to go on and just feel like throw-in filler material. What will make some players want to push forward is the fact that you can find materials during battle that can go toward upgrades for your ships.

R-Type Command screenshot

R-Type Command's visual package is a mix of the stellar and lackluster. The game's small number of cinematics are well done, and the 2D artwork pays great tribute to the series' history. However, the polygonal work is sub-par, and it would have been nice to see the developers take an all-2D approach. Audio is another area the where the game falters. Aside from the aforementioned lack of voice in the voice logs, the music in the game feels uninspired. It all has a very synthesizer, spacey feel that isn't very catchy or memorable.

The game features bonus content that unlocks after missions. Most of this is in the visual arena and only for die-hard R-Type fans. You can view the game's cinematics again and browse plenty of artwork, but that's about it. What could potentially hold player attention longer is the game's multiplayer. However, this mode is Ad Hoc and requires two PSPs. Since only one copy of the game was available at the time of review, this mode was not tested.

It's hard to call R-Type Command a successful makeover. To fans the game may just make them more nostalgic for past R-Type games and a proper, if by-the-numbers, sequel. For hardcore turn-based strategy fans nearly every minus (the slow pacing, lengthy campaign, etc.) may actually be a plus. Irem took a risk by moving to a completely new genre, but its seems that lifting R-Type out of its original mold took away what made it distinct in the first place.

By Jason Lauritzen
CCC Freelance Writer

RATING OUT OF 5

RATING DESCRIPTION

3.2

Graphics
The 2D work and cinematics are top-notch, but the polygonal ship models could have used some more time in the oven.

4.5

Control
The game's simple, menu-based controls are quick to pickup and provide a solid experience.

2.3

Music / Sound FX / Voice Acting
Most of the sci-fi tracks come off as rather bland.

3.0

Play Value
For the small but devoted hex-based fans out there the 58 levels, visual unlockables, and large unit selection will be more than enough. For others, the steep difficulty and long campaign will be an unfavorable combo.

3.2

Overall Rating - Fair
Not an average. See Rating legend above for a final score breakdown.

Game Features:

R-Type reborn - The highly acclaimed franchise moves into the strategy genre with exciting tactical gameplay!

Control the Bydo forces - For the first time in the series, take command of the Bydo forces as they launch their assault on Earth!

Intense strategy gameplay - With nearly 100 different units at your disposal, it's up to you to choose the best fleet for battle. Upgrade your existing units or purchase new ones!

Head to head local multiplayer - With the PSP wireless communication feature, play against a friend in Wireless Ad Hoc mode for a one on one strategy battle!