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Rayxanber III

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NEC PC Engine CD Shooter Pub Data West Dev Data West 1992 Japan 1 Player 5 (0) 13

Rayxanber III

Getting to Know Rayxanber III

Compiled by the Retro Games Online Editorial Team · Updated June 27, 2026

Rayxanber III is a 1992 scrolling shooter developed and published by Data West for the PC Engine Super CD-ROM². It's the final game in the Rayxanber trilogy, following Rayxanber II from 1991. Like its predecessors, it's a Japanese exclusive that never saw a Western release. The Super CD-ROM² format allowed for redbook audio, giving the game a strong soundtrack that fits the sci-fi setting.

The player controls the ES3 Donner Kyle spacecraft, deployed into the homeworld of the Zoul Empire after they destroyed an Earth mother ship. Gameplay is classic horizontal shoot 'em up: you fly through scrolling stages, dodge enemy fire, collect power-ups to upgrade your ship's weapons, and fight bosses at the end of each level. The difficulty ramps up steadily, and the CD format adds animated cutscenes between stages.

Rayxanber III is a solid niche title for PC Engine shooter fans. It's not as famous as R-Type or Gradius, but it rounds out a trilogy and offers a competent challenge with decent production values. If you enjoy horizontal shooters and want to explore the less celebrated corners of the PC Engine library, this one is worth checking out. Just know it's a straightforward arcade-style experience with no frills.

How to Play Rayxanber III Online

When you boot the game, you'll see a title screen in Japanese. Press Start to advance; you may need to confirm with the A button (X key). There is likely a simple stage select or direct start. The core loop involves moving your ship with the arrow keys, holding S to fire (or tapping for rapid fire), and collecting power-up icons dropped by enemies. Some power-ups change your weapon type; others add options or increase speed. The goal is to survive each stage and defeat the boss at the end.

Menus are entirely in Japanese, but the options are usually straightforward: choose a difficulty or start playing. The game does not have a save feature; you must complete it in one sitting. Listen for the audio cues - the CD soundtrack adds to the atmosphere. If you get stuck, focus on learning enemy patterns and using your bomb (likely mapped to a different button like Z or A) to clear the screen in emergencies.

Rayxanber III Keyboard Controls

Controls

Arrow Keys: D-Pad / Movement
X: I button
S: II button
Enter: Run / Start
V: Select

Frequently Asked Questions

Who developed Rayxanber III?

Developed and published by Data West for the PC Engine Super CD-ROM² in 1992. It is the final installment in the Rayxanber trilogy.

What makes Rayxanber III stand out among NEC PC Engine CD titles of its era?

As a late-era shooter for the platform, it utilizes the Super CD-ROM² format for enhanced audio and animated cutscenes. It completes a trilogy that is less known than major shooters on the system, offering a solid but straightforward experience.

Does Rayxanber III have a multiplayer or co-op mode?

No, it is strictly a single-player game. Most PC Engine shooters of this type were designed for one player only.