Rise of the Ronin Review
Release date: March 22, 2024
Platform: PlayStation 5
Developer: Team Ninja
Mode: Multiplayer video game
Composer: Inon Zur
Genres: Action role-playing game, Adventure game, Fighting game
“Review Copy Provided By PlayStation”
Rise of the Ronin embarks on a bold journey, marking Team Ninja's first venture into the vast expanse of an open-world game. Expectations soar when a developer's recent successes pave the way for their next project, and deviating from a tried-and-tested formula often meets with skepticism. Consider the case of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, released just a year prior, which could have easily passed for "Nioh 3" without ruffling feathers. A trilogy steeped in the unforgiving combat of Soulslike games and concise mission designs, no strategy in advertising could shield Rise of the Ronin from criticism over Team Ninja's pivot in direction.
This departure is evident in Rise of the Ronin's gameplay, which, despite sharing visual and interface elements with Nioh and Wo Long, charts a distinct path as an open-world action RPG. It draws comparisons to Ghost of Tsushima in both its expansive nature and moderate challenge level, encouraging exploration at a leisurely pace. Furthermore, Team Ninja ventures deeper into narrative territory than before, weaving a tale amidst the turbulent end of the Bakumatsu period and the dawn of the Meiji Restoration—a fascinating, albeit rarely explored, slice of history in video games. This era represents a pivotal moment for Japan, breaking from over two centuries of isolation to confront the world stage, spurred by Commodore Matthew Perry's arrival and the subsequent push towards modernization and diplomatic engagement with the West.
Japan's transition sparked rapid advancements but also brought hardships: cholera outbreaks introduced by foreigners, economic instability due to unfair trade practices, and escalating tensions leading to civil strife. Team Ninja captures this dynamic period with a narrative that questions allegiances in a politically charged landscape, offering players a choice between siding with the Shogunate or its opposition. Amidst this complex backdrop, combat remains a cornerstone of the experience, albeit without the mythical creatures characteristic of previous Team Ninja titles. Instead, the game injects excitement through historical figures and anachronisms, much like the liberties taken in the Assassin’s Creed series.
The game's setting, reminiscent of the Old West, paints a picture of disenfranchised Samurai upholding their values against the encroachments of capitalism. Players assume the role of a lone Samurai, navigating an open world rich with political intrigue and choices that seem to shape the nation's future. Character customization offers extensive control over appearance and combat preferences, from traditional katana mastery to more diverse weapon styles, influencing skill availability and progression.
Combat strays from the punishing difficulty of its predecessors, adopting elements from Soulslike games while offering a more accessible experience. It emphasizes timing, stamina (Ki) management, and a varied arsenal, from melee to ranged weaponry. The dynamic of draining an opponent's Ki to unleash devastating attacks adds depth and strategy to encounters. Additionally, the game introduces a character switching mechanic that enhances combat flexibility and interaction with companion characters.
Exploration reveals a meticulously crafted representation of mid-19th century Japan, from the bustling streets of Yokohama to the historical depth of Kyoto. Engaging in a wide array of activities, from clearing bandit strongholds to uncovering hidden treasures and befriending felines, enriches the player's connection to the world. Despite its strengths, the game seldom ventures beyond the conventions of its genre, offering a familiar but immersive journey through its detailed landscapes and optional content.
The narrative intertwines player decisions with a cast of characters, deepening the immersion and complexity of interpersonal dynamics. Multiplayer aspects complement the solo experience, allowing for cooperation without overshadowing the single-player journey. However, technical shortcomings, particularly in facial animations and performance in densely populated areas, detract from the overall polish. The audio landscape, featuring both impressive and inconsistent voice acting across languages, complements the combat and narrative effectively.
Rise of the Ronin delivers a compelling blend of story, setting, and gameplay. It presents an engaging mix of historical context and imaginative gameplay that, while not groundbreaking, offers a rich and rewarding experience. The post-game content extends the adventure, inviting players to delve deeper into its meticulously crafted world and the intricate tapestry of its narrative.
