R-Type III: The Third Lightning (SNES) Playthrough
6Playthrough of Irem's 1994 shoot 'em up for the Super Nintendo, R-Type III: The Third Lightning. This video contains both loops, after finishing the second harder loop the final ending is shown.
R-Type III: The Third Lightning for the Super Nintendo is a side-scrolling shoot-'em-up that builds on the legacy of the R-Type series, known for its intense gameplay and strategic depth. In this installment, players pilot the R-9Ø Ragnarok, a powerful spacecraft equipped with unique weapons and capabilities, battling through waves of enemy forces and massive bosses. The game retains the signature elements of the series, with its combination of fast-paced action, challenging enemy patterns, and the iconic "Force" power-up system.
The Force unit, a glowing orb that can be attached to the front or back of the ship, plays a central role in the gameplay. It can absorb enemy fire, deal damage, and provide additional firepower. What makes R-Type III stand out is the introduction of multiple Force types, each with its own characteristics and abilities, allowing players to choose the one that best suits their playstyle. This adds a layer of strategy to the game, as players must master the use of their chosen Force to navigate increasingly difficult stages and bosses.
The levels in R-Type III are meticulously designed, with a variety of environments and hazards that require both quick reflexes and precise movement. The game's difficulty is notorious, with enemies attacking from all sides and intricate boss battles that demand careful observation and timing. Each boss encounter feels like a puzzle, where players need to find the right strategy and weak points to succeed. The high level of challenge is balanced by the game's tight controls and responsive gameplay, ensuring that players feel in control of their ship despite the chaos unfolding on screen.
Visually, R-Type III pushes the SNES hardware to its limits with detailed sprite work, fluid animations, and vibrant backgrounds that create a dynamic sense of depth. The game’s sci-fi aesthetic, filled with alien landscapes and mechanical monstrosities, is both atmospheric and immersive. The soundtrack complements the action, with energetic and tense tracks that enhance the feeling of being in a high-stakes space battle.
Overall, R-Type III is a challenging but rewarding experience that appeals to fans of the shoot-'em-up genre. Its combination of strategic gameplay, diverse weapon systems, and engaging level design make it a standout title on the SNES, providing a satisfying balance of difficulty and depth.