R-9C
The player's fighter craft, an upgraded successor to the original R-9 equipped with a Force unit and charge beam.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Joystick | Move the R-9 Eight-way arcade joystick movement. |
|---|---|
Button 1 | Fire the main weapon Press to fire the currently equipped weapon. |
Button 2 | Launch or recall the Force Use the Force control to detach or call back the Force unit. |
Control notes
Hold the fire button to charge the Wave Cannon when the current weapon supports charging.
Exact button labels can vary by arcade cabinet.
How it plays
How does R-Type II play?
The player pilots the R-9 through side-scrolling stages filled with enemies, terrain hazards, and large boss encounters. The objective is to survive each stage, destroy the boss, and continue through the campaign with limited lives.
The Force can be attached to the front or rear of the fighter, detached and repositioned, or used to block threats. Power-up items improve the ship's weapon, while speed control and charged shots support different approaches. The arcade version is structured as a fixed sequence of stages with no character selection or alternate campaign.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play R-Type II?
Learn enemy entrances and boss patterns instead of relying on reaction alone. Keep the Force positioned where it can cover the fighter's vulnerable side, and detach it to attack targets from an angle.
Avoid excessive speed increases in narrow sections. Save charged shots for durable enemies and bosses, and treat each life as an opportunity to practice a specific stage segment.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Force
A detachable support pod that functions as both shield and offensive tool, central to the game's strategy.
Bydo
The recurring hostile force of the series, depicted as a terrifying biomechanical alien army.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Use the Force as both a shield and a remote weapon; its position is often more important than the fighter's position.
- 2
Charge the Wave Cannon before predictable enemy formations or boss openings.
- 3
Memorize hazards and enemy entrances, especially when advancing with limited lives.
Community discussion
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