Not trying to sound like a weird fanboy here, but as good as r-type final is, it cannot come close to gradius v. I am not going to compare graphics, because even though they are 3d, each has their own special look to them. although i do prefer gv's over rtf. Level design and boses is where gv truly shines. Each boss is so unique and takes some real thought to get through. When you fight a boss scaling down the wall, crashing blocks at you all the while dodging both the blocks and the enemy's fire, you will see.