Japanese publisher and developer City Connection has announced R-TYPE DX: Music Encore, a new re-release of the classic handheld game R-TYPE DX.
R-TYPE DX: Music Encore is in development for Windows PC (via Steam), Xbox Series X|S, Switch, and PS5 with a release set for November 20th, 2025.
The new release includes both the aforementioned port of the 1999 Game Boy Color title R-TYPE DX, as well as the original R-TYPE and its sequel R-TYPE II. The release also includes the “Ultimate Challenge” mode, where you can play through both original games back to back.
Here’s a rundown on the game, plus its reveal trailer:
“What if every stage had its own dedicated BGM, just like in the arcade?” — That “what if” has finally become reality. Fight your way through from the First Bydo Mission to the Second Bydo Mission in the ultimate cross-series mission, “Ultimate Challenge”, and relive that once-imaginary scenario with brand-new sound!
“Ultimate Challenge” features the very first full soundtrack implementation. Even in places where the original reused common tracks, brand-new stage-specific music faithful to the arcade has been added. Each stage can now be played with the same music structure as the arcade version.
The music is composed by WASi303, a composer well-versed in retro game sound. Making full use of actual handheld hardware sound chips, it delivers an authentic resonance true to the era, while still offering a fresh new experience! Enjoy the Original “R-TYPE” and “R-TYPE II” in Full
Games
- R-TYPE – In the year 220X, humanity witnessed true darkness!! The first encounter with extraterrestrial life to be recorded in cosmic history. Space Era 220X—In an alternate dimension hundreds of light-years away lies the Bydo Empire. What humanity saw there were alien beings overflowing with hatred and bloodlust. Survival or extinction—humanity’s fate hung in the balance as the battle began, armed with the ultimate weapon: the Force!
- R-TYPE II – Once again, the terrifying Bydo return—their counterattack has begun! The malevolent Bydo Empire, a force that annihilates everything in its path within an alternate dimension, was believed to have been eradicated by the “R-9” fleet humanity dispatched. But it survived. It had fled to another dimension, regaining its strength in secret. Now, the Bydo Empire, seething with hatred, has torn through the dimensional barrier to strike at humanity once more. In response, mankind has deployed the enhanced “R-9” craft—together with the ultimate weapon, the Force…
- R-TYPE DX – Now featuring the brand-new “Music Encore” function. The ultimate mission spanning from the First Bydo Mission (R-TYPE) to the Second Bydo Mission (R-TYPE II). In addition to regular scoring, detailed play records such as “hit ratio” and “number of continues” are also tracked. How far can you make it, and with how few mistakes? Note: “Ultimate Challenge” is available in Color, while both “R-TYPE” and “R-TYPE II” can be played in either Monochrome or Color mode.
Features
- Plenty of Extras to Enjoy – Digitized materials such as original packaging and flyers from the time are included in abundance. In addition, challenge a variety of missions through Achievements and unlock your accomplishments!
- Player-Friendly Support Features – Features designed to give peace of mind even to beginners, including Rewind, Quick Save & Load, and Full Power-Up Start, as well as a toggle for rapid-fire shots!
- About R-TYPE DX – “R-TYPE DX” is a title that ported the arcade hits “R-TYPE” and “R-TYPE II” to handheld hardware. With the inclusion of “Ultimate Challenge,” which lets you battle through both games back-to-back, it offered a unique way to experience the series. In this revival, “R-TYPE DX: Music Encore,” brand-new “what-if” sounds that didn’t exist at the time have been added. On top of that, modern support features have been implemented, allowing players to enjoy a deeper and more refined experience than ever before.