[Nintendo Switch] Review of Rendering Ranger: R2 [Rewind Edition]

Rendering Ranger: R2 [Rewind] is making its debut on the Nintendo Switch, thanks to the combined efforts of Ziggurat and Limited Run Games. Originally crafted by Rainbow Arts and published by Virgin Interactive Entertainment, this game first appeared on the Super Famicom in 1995. It was a rare gem with only 10,000 copies produced for its Japanese audience. Fortunately, Limited Run Games stepped in to give this title a new lease on life, offering pre-orders for an SNES cartridge, as well as physical copies for the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5. While the Super NES version is already in players’ hands, fans can expect the other editions to hit shelves in the coming months.

If you’re struck by a sense of familiarity when checking out the screenshots and trailer, that’s entirely justified. Manfred Trenz, the mind behind the iconic Turrican series, also designed this title. Fast forward to 2025, and gamers now finally have the chance to experience this classic on the Switch. This release features two versions of the game: Rendering Ranger: R2, and Targa, the long-lost title intended for North America and PAL regions. Originally planned to include hand-drawn visuals, the game pivoted to pre-rendered graphics following Donkey Kong Country’s phenomenal success. This shift also saw the title evolve into Rendering Ranger: R2.

Players step into the boots of R2, a standout soldier within the elite Rendering Ranger team, tasked with repelling an alien onslaught. Rendering Ranger: R2 [Rewind] boasts nine dynamic levels packed with 2D action reminiscent of the Turrican heritage. These levels blend run-and-gun gameplay with horizontal shoot ’em up sections, adding variety and challenge. Master your arsenal and outsmart enemy patterns to reach the climactic boss battles at each stage’s end.

When you’re ready for battle, utilize the left analog stick or D-Pad to maneuver your character. Jump with B, shoot with Y, and cycle through your weapons using A. While piloting your spacecraft, B allows you to shift directions, and you can deploy a powerful mega weapon by pressing X.

Throughout the horizontal shoot ’em up segments, you’ll discover a wealth of weapons and mega weapons. Collect options like the Vulcan Shot, which can be upgraded for greater impact, or the Mirror Shot that strategically rebounds off surfaces for maximum effect. Mega weapons include the Radial Bomb, launching explosive rounds in all directions, and the Flame Scythe, a fiery arc that engulfs anything it touches. Enhance your standard weapons by gathering color-coded power capsules—red, blue, green, and yellow.

Bringing this rare treasure to Western audiences is quite the feat, considering its limited original release. Manfred Trenz’s influence is clear, bridging nostalgic elements with modern gameplay. With the chance to explore both Rendering Ranger: R2 and the unreleased Targa, players can fully appreciate the crafted experience after 30 years. This release capitalizes on modern conveniences, allowing for mid-game rewinds and saving anytime, enhancing accessibility and enjoyment.

Rendering Ranger: R2 [Rewind] is now available on the Nintendo Switch, offering a glimpse into the past with added modern touches. Whether you’re revisiting a classic or experiencing it for the first time, this title promises a thrilling ride through its nostalgic yet refreshed gameplay.

_Disclaimer: Our review is based on a Nintendo Switch copy provided by Ziggurat._