For years, whispers have echoed among collectors: “Have you seen Rendering Ranger: R²?” This Super Famicom title, released in 1995, wasn’t just rare; it was legendary, often cited as the most expensive SNES game. Its blend of technical prowess and demanding gameplay cemented its place in retro gaming history.
Now, almost three decades later, Rendering Ranger: R² is breaking out of its collector’s case and into the hands of a new generation.
What Is Rendering Ranger: R²?
Well, let’s be honest; it’s basically a fourth installment of Turrican. Like the earlier game series, Rendering Ranger: R² was originally crafted by Rainbow Arts and the visionary Manfred Trenz.
Rendering Ranger: R² offers more than just nostalgia. As well as the original Japanese game, the re-release also includes the unreleased western prototype Targa. Beyond that, the type of quality-of-life features expected in modern re-releases are included. A rewind function allows players to tackle those notoriously challenging sections without resorting to save states every few seconds.
Hey, I’ll put my hands up – I’ll be using that feature. But you can also save the game whenever you need to. If you’re a display experience purist, the optional CRT filter mode recreates the authentic feel of playing on a radioactive particle accelerator (or TV as we used to call it).
Special Editions of Rendering Ranger: R2
Purveyor of special editions Limited Run Games is catering to collectors with both standard and special editions across all platforms (PC, PlayStation 4/5, and Nintendo Switch). The standard editions include the game, a translated manual with a retrospective on the game’s development, and a platform-specific controller diagram. The PC version comes in a micro box with a USB stick containing a DRM-free build.
For the truly dedicated, the Armageddon Edition is a treasure trove. Housed in a collector’s box, it includes everything from the standard edition, plus a reversible poster, the original soundtrack, a Ranger sprite enamel pin, a commemorative metal coin, and a 3D printed metal helmet keychain.
This isn’t just a re-release; it’s a preservation project. Rendering Ranger: R² deserves to be experienced by more than just those who can afford its original market value. Whether you’re a seasoned retro gamer or a newcomer curious about gaming history, this is a chance to experience a true classic.
Two paths are opening for fans eager to experience this classic. Limited Run Games is offering physical editions for pre-order from February 14th to March 16th, 2025, while Ziggurat Interactive will simultaneously launch a digital version, Rendering Ranger: R², on PC via Steam, PlayStation 4|5, and Nintendo Switch on March 20th, 2025.
This is a title that people seriously want to play — the Super Nintendo Entertainment/Super Famicom edition has already sold out.
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Christian Cawley is a writer and editor who covers consumer electronics, IT, and entertainment media. He has written for publications such as Computer Weekly, Linux Format, MakeUseOf.com, and Tech Radar.
He also produces podcasts, has a cigar box guitar, and of course, loves retro gaming.
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