-"R-Type Command" (Atlus, for the PSP, $39.99): "R-Type" is one of the all-time great outer-space shoot-'em-ups, but this spinoff is a much more laid-back tactical game. You start each level by placing an assortment of spaceships on a hex-filled grid; the objective, generally, is to reach a particular spot on the grid or to destroy your opponent's flagship.
Strategy lovers will eat this up, but others may find it baffling thanks to a complete lack of tutorials or any other onscreen help. The battles are well-balanced, though, challenging yet fair, and patient players will come to appreciate the versatility of the spacecraft.
But patience is the key. "R-Type Command" moves very slowly, and battles take half-an-hour or more. The levels do get repetitious, and the opponent's artificial intelligence sometimes takes forever to complete its turn. If you're nostalgic for the frenzy of classic "R-Type," you'd be better off rejecting this "Command." Two stars.
