Forgotten PSP Strategy Spin-Off Gets Expanded PS5, PS4 Revival This June

Did you ever play R-Type Tactics on the PSP? It offered a neat twist on the legendary franchise, transforming the series’ tried and trusted shmup gameplay into a kind of strategy experience.

The first game launched globally, but its successor was only ever available in Japan.

In this PS5 compilation, the frustratingly formatted R-Type Tactics I • II Cosmos, you’ll get access to both games in one bundle, with refinements and additional content. It’s due out on 18th June.

Here’s how the press release introduces the experience:

“R-Type Tactics I • II Cosmos turns tactical, turn-based strategy gameplay on its side for a one-of-a-kind R-Type experience. Deploy your forces across multiple campaigns, playing as both the Space Corps and the Bydo. With hundreds of ships and levels to choose from between both games, along with branching missions and a brand-new post-game story, R-Type Tactics I • II Cosmos is packed with out-of-this-world content.”

As the blurb alludes to, a “brand-new set of missions following the end of Tactics II gives you even more content than ever before”, so you’re looking at a rather robust offering here.

We loved the original R-Type Tactics because it’s such a unique and out-there twist on a tried and trusted format, so we’ll be interested to see if it remains a novelty almost 20 years after its original release.

The game will be available digitally from the PS Store, of course, but if you fancy a Limited Edition physical version, that’s available to pre-order from the NIS America Online Store.

In addition to the game on Blu-ray, the package includes a two-disc soundtrack, conceptual art card set, a couple of acrylic stands, and a collector’s box.