# **Rise of the Ronin: A Contemporary Open-World Samurai Experience Featuring Soulslike Combat**
## **Introduction**
In the dynamic realm of open-world action RPGs, *Rise of the Ronin* emerges as a distinctive fusion of modern exploration and the intense yet just combat dynamics typical of Soulslike games. Brought to life by Team Ninja, the minds behind *Nioh* and *Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty*, this PlayStation 5 exclusive immerses players in a samurai narrative set against the backdrop of 19th-century Japan. While the game excels in its combat mechanics and historical context, it does not fully meet expectations regarding graphical quality or narrative depth.
With its recent debut on PC in March 2025, *Rise of the Ronin* is now available to a wider audience. This review re-examines the PS5 edition in anticipation of technical evaluations of the PC version.
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## **A Fantasy Realized for Samurai Aficionados**
For an extended period, enthusiasts have longed for an *Assassin’s Creed* title situated in Japan, merging intricate, skill-intensive combat with a vast open world. *Rise of the Ronin* strives to meet this expectation, presenting a rich historical backdrop and exhilarating swordplay.
Team Ninja has previously demonstrated its prowess in action RPG combat with *Nioh* and *Wo Long*, and *Rise of the Ronin* carries on this legacy. The game showcases refined parries, rapid dodges, and impactful counterattacks, transforming each confrontation into a tense battle for survival. However, while the combat is commendable, the open-world structure and storyline are less impressive.
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## **An Interactive History Tutorial**
Differing from numerous samurai games that zero in on feudal Japan, *Rise of the Ronin* unfolds during the late 19th century, a time of significant turmoil as Japan moves from Shogunate governance to modernization. Players take on the role of a masterless samurai (ronin) torn between two factions: those aiming to uphold the Shogunate and those wanting to overthrow it.
The game grants players the power to shape historical outcomes via their choices. Whether they align with the Shogunate or support the resistance, each choice influences the narrative progression. The introduction of a secondary character, created alongside the main protagonist, enriches the emotional undertones of the story. However, despite its promising premise, the narrative often falters in pacing due to lackluster character portrayals and an emphasis on historical happenings over individual stakes.
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## **Ethical Complexity and Player Agency**
A notable strength of *Rise of the Ronin* lies in its intricate depiction of historical disputes. The game steers clear of binary morality, illustrating both factions as consisting of noble as well as morally compromised figures.
For instance, players might opt to assault a British installation, only to later discover that foreign doctors are aiding in the fight against cholera in Japan. This ethical ambiguity compels players to reassess their actions and alliances. The game also incorporates a timeline feature that lets players revisit previous missions and make alternative choices, enhancing its replayability.
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## **A Recognizable Yet Predictable Open World**
Three primary open-world regions are featured: Yokohama, Edo (now Tokyo), and Kyoto. These locations are beautifully crafted, merging Western and traditional Japanese aesthetics. However, the activities within the open world conform to the conventional Ubisoft blueprint—liberating territories, gathering loot, and participating in side quests.
Though the world may lack the organic narrative depth found in *Ghost of Tsushima* or *Elden Ring*, the compelling combat system keeps players engaged. The addition of a glider and grappling hook introduces verticality to exploration, but the environment frequently feels empty outside of scripted encounters.
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## **A Combat System Deserving of Mastery**
The main highlight of *Rise of the Ronin* is its combat. In contrast to traditional Soulslike titles, which prioritize punishing challenges, this game presents various difficulty levels, making it more approachable for newcomers.
Players can utilize an array of melee and ranged weapons, each accompanied by distinctive combat styles. Mastering perfect blocks and counterattacks is vital in depleting an enemy’s ki (stamina), echoing *Sekiro’s* posture mechanics. Moreover, players can employ tools like grappling hooks, explosives, and firearms to secure an advantage in fights.
The game includes AI companions who can support in combat, with players able to switch between them effortlessly. A co-op mode enables up to two players to participate in missions, although they cannot explore the open world in tandem.
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## **Customization and RPG Features**
Beyond combat, *Rise of the Ronin* incorporates extensive RPG elements:
– **Loot Mechanism:** Players can acquire gear with distinctive perks and bonuses.
– **Combat Styles:** Each weapon category possesses multiple stances, influencing attack speed and effectiveness.
– **Skill Trees:** Players may invest in various attributes, such as strength for raw power, skill for agility, or intelligence for persuasion.
– **Relationships:** Player choices and interactions with NPCs.