Rise of the Ronin: Samurai Showdowns and System Slowdowns

A tale of two siblings, one epic journey, and a whole lot of frame drops

Launch Day Larry

Welcome to the world of “Rise of the Ronin,” where you can live out your samurai fantasies in the tumultuous Bakumatsu period of Japan. This game promises a rich tapestry of strategic combat, historical intrigue, and customization options that would make even the most seasoned RPG fan’s head spin. But does it deliver on these promises, or does it leave players feeling like they’ve been caught in a never-ending loading screen? Let’s dive in.

Gameplay: A Dance of Blades and Bugs

“Rise of the Ronin” offers a gameplay experience that is as engaging as it is challenging. The combat system is a standout feature, requiring players to strategically engage with enemies by lowering their poise gauge to execute powerful finishers. It’s a refreshing change from the usual dodge-and-evade tactics, offering a skill-based experience that will have Dark Souls veterans feeling right at home. The parry windows are tight, demanding precision and timing that can be both exhilarating and frustrating, depending on your skill level.

Customization is another feather in the game’s cap, allowing players to tailor their characters through dialogue choices and various customization options. However, the absence of body sliders for male characters might leave some players feeling like their creative freedom has been slightly curtailed. Meanwhile, the exploration and stealth mechanics add a delightful layer of depth, with a “cat collectathon” and cartoonish traversal options that keep things fresh and entertaining.

However, the game isn’t without its hiccups. Performance issues, particularly frame rate drops and optimization problems, can detract from the overall experience. It’s like trying to enjoy a samurai duel while someone keeps flicking the lights on and off. The co-op mode, while a welcome addition, is hampered by structured mission-based play, limiting the freedom to explore with friends. Plus, the requirement to defeat semi-bosses to unlock co-op mode might deter some players from diving into multiplayer action.

Graphics: A Feast for the Eyes or a Famine?

When it comes to graphics, “Rise of the Ronin” is a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, some environments, particularly in the cities, are described as gorgeous, offering a visual feast that complements the game’s historical setting. On the other hand, the game’s high system demands seem unjustifiable given the actual visual output. Players with top-tier hardware like the RTX 4090 struggle to achieve stable 4K at 60fps, which is as disappointing as finding out your favorite sushi place ran out of tuna.

Technical issues abound, with reports of assets downgrading in detail when approached, heavy ghosting, and disocclusion artifacts. It’s like the game is trying to pull a magic trick, but instead of pulling a rabbit out of a hat, it pulls out a blurry mess. The graphics are often compared unfavorably to other games like Elden Ring, highlighting a perceived lack of advancement in visual quality. The game’s massive 150GB file size only adds insult to injury, as players wonder what exactly is taking up all that space.

Story: A Historical Epic with a Twist

The narrative of “Rise of the Ronin” is set during the Bakumatsu period, offering a fictionalized account of historical events that is both intriguing and immersive. Players step into the shoes of a Blade Twin, one of two siblings trained to challenge the Shogunate. The storyline is rich with significant decisions, including a mission to assassinate Commodore Matthew Perry, adding layers of tension and intrigue.

The story is praised for its free-flowing nature and the ability to surprise players with key moments. The open world is vast and varied, offering exploration opportunities and secondary missions that enrich the storytelling experience. The presence of two customizable protagonists offers different perspectives and choices that impact the story’s progression, adding depth and replayability.

While the story may not be groundbreaking, it is sufficient to maintain player interest and drive them towards more engaging moments. The narrative’s integration with historical events and the player’s role in shaping the outcome through decisions are notable details that add layers to the otherwise straightforward plot. It’s like a well-crafted sushi roll—simple yet satisfying.

Final Verdict

“Rise of the Ronin” offers a compelling experience for those interested in action-RPGs, with its engaging gameplay, character creation, and historical backdrop. However, the game’s potential is overshadowed by significant graphical and performance shortcomings. If you’re willing to overlook these issues, you’ll find a rich and immersive world waiting to be explored. But if you’re expecting a seamless experience, you might want to wait for a few patches before diving in.

Score: 6.5/10