I’ll admit it up front: the slow, steady return of R-Type on modern systems has been one of my favourite nostalgia arcs of the last few years. So yes, this one landed nicely.
ININ Games has released a new trailer for R-Type Dimensions III, showing off major visual and technical progress — and, crucially, confirming details of the collector’s edition.
The game is due out in May 2026 on PlayStation 5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC (Steam).
Two editions, one hard deadline
The key thing to know straight away: the Collector’s Edition is only available to pre-order until February 8. After that, production is locked and it’s gone. No late additions, no “we found a few more in a warehouse”.
That alone makes it feel like a very old-school approach — and that suits R-Type just fine.
The Special Edition: sensible, but still tempting
The Special Edition feels like the “I love this series, but I still need shelf space” option.
You get the full game, a proper artbook focusing on concept work and visual development, and the complete new soundtrack. If you’re interested in how R-Type Dimensions III has been rebuilt visually and sonically, this is the version that makes the most sense.
It’s priced at €59.99, with the Switch 2 version coming in at €69.99.
The Collector’s Edition: absolutely not subtle
Then there’s the Collector’s Edition, which doesn’t pretend to be restrained.
Alongside everything in the Special Edition, you’re getting exclusive extras, with the headline item being a figurine based on the game’s new cover artwork. This is very much the “display it proudly” version, aimed at long-time fans who already know they’re in.
It’s priced at €199.99, regardless of platform, and it’s clearly designed as a one-and-done run.
The game itself still looks the part
All of this would fall flat if the game didn’t look good, but the latest trailer suggests R-Type Dimensions III is continuing to come together nicely. Visuals are cleaner, lighting and effects are sharper, and it still very much looks and feels like R-Type rather than something wearing its skin.
The ability to switch between classic and modern visuals at any time is still here, which remains one of the smartest ideas the Dimensions releases have ever had. Local co-op, configurable controls, and modern quality-of-life options round things out without messing with the core experience.
Why this works for me
What I like about all this is that it doesn’t feel cynical. There’s a clear understanding of who R-Type fans are, how they engage with the series, and why physical releases still matter to them.
If you’ve enjoyed seeing R-Type slowly re-establish itself on modern systems, these special editions feel like a natural next step — and if you’re even vaguely tempted by the Collector’s Edition, that February 8 deadline is worth keeping in mind.
May 2026 can’t come soon enough.
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Christian Cawley is the founder and editor of GamingRetro.co.uk, a website dedicated to classic and retro gaming. With over 20 years of experience writing for technology and gaming publications, he brings considerable expertise and a lifelong passion for interactive entertainment, particularly games from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras.
Christian has written for leading outlets including TechRadar, Computer Weekly, Linux Format, and MakeUseOf, where he also served as Deputy Editor.
When he’s not exploring vintage consoles or retro PCs, Christian enjoys building with LEGO, playing cigar box guitar, and experimenting in the kitchen.
