ININ Games has confirmed that the Nintendo Switch 2 version of R-Type Dimensions III will be released as a complete physical cartridge in both Europe and the United States, reversing earlier expectations that the game might ship as a download code in a box. The decision follows Nintendo’s recent announcement of new, smaller cartridge formats for Switch 2, which allowed the publisher to reassess production options for the title.
According to ININ Games, the newly introduced cartridge sizes made it possible to fit the full game on physical media in a way that was previously not viable. As a result, the entire Switch 2 retail run will now include the full game on the cartridge itself, rather than requiring an additional download. The publisher described the timing as ideal, crediting both the updated hardware options and strong community feedback for enabling the change.
There is, however, a financial tradeoff. ININ Games confirmed that the retail and special editions of the Nintendo Switch 2 version will see a €10 price increase, citing higher production costs associated with the revised manufacturing plan. To acknowledge early support, the company stated that customers who pre-ordered the special edition before the change will still receive the full cartridge version at the original price they paid.
The announcement follows several days of discussion among fans, particularly those concerned with long-term game preservation and physical ownership. ININ Games directly thanked the community for its feedback and patience, noting that enthusiasm for both physical releases and the R Type series played a key role in reaching this outcome.
R-Type Dimensions III is a modern reimagining of R-Type III: The Third Lightning and marks the first major entry in the series built specifically to take advantage of Nintendo Switch 2 hardware. The game is developed by Kritzelkratz 3000 in collaboration with Irem and ININ Games, and features a fully rebuilt 3D presentation of every stage, enemy, and boss encounter. Players can instantly switch between the updated visuals and the original 1993 pixel art, preserving the classic look and feel alongside the modern overhaul.
The title is scheduled to launch on May 29, 2026, and will also be available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and PC. While the Switch 2 version has drawn particular attention due to the physical media situation, ININ Games has positioned the cartridge-based release as a definitive option for players who value owning the complete game in physical form, even at a slightly higher price point.
