I didn't see a thread for this game, so I figured I'd start one.
http://dehacked.2y.net/microstorage.php/info/65065779/%21%21R-Type-Dave.smv
This is a WIP through the first two stages, if you're interested.
R-type can be very laggy at times, so there isn't as much crazy screen-full-of-enemies dodging as in Gradius III.
I play on hard mode. There is a "pro" mode, but I'm 99.9% sure you can't access it without winning the game on hard first. If this is wrong, someone please let me know!! If it's possible to access pro mode at the title screen, I will of course play on pro mode instead of hard.
Unlike Gradius, your power-ups are more limited in R-Type. Speed upgrades come rarely (about once per level).
I figure the constrained optimization problem in TASing this game would be to maximize entertainment and points while minimizing lag. Of course, there should also be a 100% kill rate (or as close as possible).
The only level where I would sacrifice time is probably level 4. This is the level where you can destroy the big red floating ship. I think a little lag would be OK for the entertainment of the whole ship getting destroyed.
Please watch this WIP, and provide feedback if you're interested. Thanks.
Dave