SNES Classic R-Type III Gets Full 'Dimensions III' Remake for 2026

The iconic SNES shoot-'em-up R-Type III: The Third Lightning is officially getting a full-scale remake. Developer ININ Games announced the project, titled R-Type Dimensions III, via a post on X, confirming a May 2026 release for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (via Steam). The project is a collaboration with Tozai and original rights holder Irem.

🎮 Game Details- Original: SNES, 1994- New Platform: Switch, PS5, Xbox, PC- Developer: ININ Games, Tozai, Irem

This isn't a simple port or emulated re-release. Dimensions III is being billed as a complete remake, promising rebuilt visuals that bring the classic side-scrolling action into the modern era. A key feature for purists is the inclusion of a classic graphics toggle, allowing players to switch between the new look and a presentation that honours the original 16-bit aesthetic. The announcement also confirms that modern quality-of-life features will be included, though specifics are yet to be detailed.

For collectors, physical editions are already on the table. A Special Edition and a more expansive Collector's Edition are available for pre-order through select retailers. This follows a pattern for ININ Games, who have built a reputation for delivering substantial physical packages for retro revivals. It's a significant moment for the series, which has seen various compilations but few ground-up remakes of individual titles. We previously covered the return of R-Type Delta in a different form, highlighting the ongoing interest in this seminal shooter franchise.

What We Know So Far

The core promise is a faithful yet enhanced experience. While the original R-Type III was renowned on the SNES for its brutal difficulty and inventive Force pod system, the remake aims to retain that punishing gameplay while making it more accessible. The classic graphics toggle is a smart move, directly appealing to both newcomers who want a slicker presentation and veterans who crave that pixel-perfect nostalgia. The involvement of Irem provides a crucial link to the game's origins, suggesting the remake will respect the source material.

Launching in May 2026, the game is also confirmed for the successor to the Nintendo Switch, often referred to as the 'Switch 2', ensuring it will have a long lifespan on Nintendo platforms. The announcement from ININ Games is light on specific gameplay alterations or new content, focusing instead on the core premise of a visual overhaul. As one of the defining shoot-'em-ups of the 16-bit era, the pressure is on to deliver a remake that captures the magic of dodging screen-filling bosses and mastering the Wave Cannon. With Irem's legacy in the mix, there's a solid foundation to build upon.

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