I have rediscovered R-Type on the iPhone but on the harder levels its rubbish because using touchscreen hides half it behind your hand. The only console I have is a borrowed Game Cube – anyone know if R-Type was ever available, or even better have a copy to sell or lend?

Not to my knowledge, I think it was on everything else but the Cube.

MAME, sir?

No, ikaruga is much better anyhow.

You can play flash versions of r-type in your PC browser for free. Just google it.

Arcade, Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Atari ST, Commodore 64, Game Boy, MSX, PC Engine, Sega Master System, Sinclair ZX Spectrum, NEC PC-88VA, PlayStation, Mobile phone (Java ME), Virtual Console, Xbox 360 (XBLA)

If you have a Gamecube definately check out Ikaruga. I have the Dreamcast version so haven’t actually played in the the GC but it’s fantastic.
Fiendishly hard as well.

Ikaruga – bought

Ikaruga is bloody ace. Proper solid though.

But, coming from R-Type, that shouldn’t be an issue.

Ikaruga is very addictive. It frustrated me at first, then once you get used to it maximising streams is very relaxing. Top game, you won’t regret buying it.