R-Type Delta may not look as sharp as the original R-Type with it's classic hand drawn artwork and crisp details but in this age of polygons and 3-D special effects, Irem can't be faulted for going with the textured polygon flow. The graphics in Delta are reminescent of what we've seen in Einhander and Philosoma but the brilliance of Irem's graphical work and unique enemies are unmistakable. Galactic worms with translucent sheen arc across the screen as they weave and dive, flitting airships move in oscillating patterns, carriers fly and jump with retro rockets glaring. The game runs silky smooth and the control offers just enough resistance to make the ship feel substantial as you pilot it through alien worlds. The original R-9 and R-13 ship models return along with a new bruiser called the R-X. We haven't been able to check out all the power-ups yet but the bolt-on weapon is standard issue weaponry along with an assortment of laser and missile enhancements. Delta also borrows a variant of a power up move from Mega-Drive classic Gaiares where you can absorb an enemy ship's energy to power up a new mega weapon deemed Delta. Devotees of the R-Type mythos will revel in this new version of the classic series, it's a fitting tribute to one of the greatest shooters in video-game land. New inductees will find Delta a high quality shooter that ranks up there with the best on the Playstation: Einhander, Gradius Gaiden, Strikers 1945, Soukyugurentai and G Darius. Our highest recommendation.