Developed by Irem and released by Nintendo, R-Type brought a level of depth and sophistication to both the graphics and gameplay of the growing shoot-em-up category, with huge organic-looking aliens and environments brought to life with realistic animations. The mission of the game's spaceship-piloting protagonist is to destroy the Bydo, an alien race that is (apparently) bent on the destruction of humanity. The game's key innovation was the Force, a floating shield and weapon platform that can attach to the front or back of the player's ship or detach and float ahead while shooting, which added numerous tactical possibilities to the game. Complex, ever-changing stages and imminent threats from all sides give R-Type a high level of difficulty, but the addictive shoot-em-up gameplay brings players back for one more assault.