The R-9 comes with a small gun that can only take down weak enemies without firing multiple shots. By holding down the fire button, it can be loaded up to release a powerful burst of energy, eliminating stronger enemies. Pods will occasionally appear, releasing upgrades when shot. The first upgrade is "The Force", which can absorb enemy bullets or act as a shield, and can also be used as an offensive weapon by firing it and pulling it back in. Mastering the Force is crucial to surviving in R-Type , as it must be used for protection, offense, and clearing obstacles. Other upgrades give you target-seeking missiles or a bigger main gun. Different guns serve different purposes.
The stages of R-Type are designed with an organic style inspired by H. R. Giger's artwork for the Alien movies. When it was released, it broke away from traditional sci-fi shoot 'em up styles. The levels require a combination of strategy and reflexes to navigate, rather than memorization.