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Rise of the Ronin

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Rise of the Ronin
Item: Rise of the Ronin
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Single Player

AvailableMar 22, 2024

PlatformPC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperTeam Ninja

Overview

Rise of the Rōnin is a combat focused open-world action RPG that takes place in Japan at a time of great change. It is the very end of a 300-year long Edo Period, commonly known as “Bakumatsu”. Set in the late 19th century, Japan is facing the darkest of times as it struggles with its oppressive rulers and deadly diseases while western influence permeates as civil war continues to rage between the Tokugawa Shogunate and the Anti-Shogunate factions. Here in this time of mayhem, you embody a Ronin character, a warrior bound to no master and free to make choices of its own. Rise of the Rōnin is a new Team Ninja experience that will immerse you in an historically inspired world while bringing together its renowned combat action with Katanas and the likes, with new firearm weaponry that depicts the unique personality of its time period.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

"Rise of the Ronin" impresses with its ambitious narrative set in 19th-century Japan, offering rich choices and historical context. However, critics are divided; while some praise its potential and character relationships, many lament the flat narrative, poorly developed characters, and lack of meaningful choices. The game's execution ultimately leaves a lot to be desired, resulting in an underwhelming storytelling experience despite its intriguing premise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

51%

Mixed (50-79)

41%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of "Rise of the Ronin" has garnered some praise from critics, particularly for its historical context and the ambitious narrative scope. Many reviewers, such as Gfinity and TechRadar Gaming, highlight the game's setting in 19th-century Japan during a politically charged period, which allows for a rich tapestry of choices and consequences that can significantly impact the gameplay. Critics like GameStar and Destructoid appreciate the blend of personal quests with historical events, noting that the narrative can be engaging and educational, particularly for players interested in Japan's tumultuous past. The inclusion of character relationships and the ability to influence the story through choices is also mentioned positively by critics like TheSixthAxis and Eurogamer Portugal, who see potential in the branching narratives and character interactions. However, despite these positive aspects, a significant number of critics express disappointment with the execution of the story. Many reviews, including those from JeuxActu, Gamer.nl, and GamingBolt, point out that the narrative often feels flat and lacks emotional depth, with poorly developed characters and incoherent plot points. Critics like CD-Action and But Why Tho? note that while the story has potential, it ultimately fails to engage due to a lack of fluidity and depth, making it hard for players to connect with the characters. Additionally, several reviewers mention the illusion of choice, where decisions do not seem to have meaningful consequences, which detracts from the overall experience. The overall consensus among critics is mixed, with many acknowledging the game's ambitious narrative and interesting setting while simultaneously criticizing its execution. While some, like Meristation and Impulsegamer, find merit in the character-driven story and the historical backdrop, the majority of reviews highlight the lack of emotional engagement and character development as significant flaws. Critics such as IGN Portugal and ZTGD emphasize that although the game offers a rich historical lesson, the storytelling often falls short, leading to a narrative experience that is underwhelming and at times disjointed. Ultimately, "Rise of the Ronin" presents a fascinating premise, but its execution leaves many players wanting more in terms of depth and coherence in storytelling.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Rise of the Ronin impresses with its engaging combat mechanics and dynamic traversal, earning praise for depth in weapon variety and RPG elements. However, critics slam the repetitive combat and lack of exploration depth, leading to a formulaic experience. While it has potential with exciting moments, the game struggles to rise above its shortcomings, leaving players wanting more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

71%

Mixed (50-79)

25%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Rise of the Ronin has garnered a mix of praise from various critics, particularly for its depth and Variety in combat mechanics. Many reviewers, such as IGN and Gamer.nl, highlight the engaging combat system that allows for a range of weapons and fighting styles, as well as the strategic elements involved in timing and stamina management. The inclusion of unique mechanics like the Counterspark and the ability to customize character builds adds to the positive reception. Critics like Metro GameCentral and GamingBolt appreciate the exhilarating traversal mechanics, including gliding and grappling hooks, which enhance exploration and contribute to a dynamic gameplay experience. Additionally, the game’s RPG elements, such as skill trees and character customization, have been noted by several reviewers, including PlayStation Universe and Meristation, as enriching the overall gameplay. Despite these strengths, many critics have pointed out significant weaknesses within the gameplay. Game Informer and ZTGD express concerns over the repetitive nature of the combat, suggesting that the parry-heavy system can lead to a lack of combat diversity. Variety criticizes the combat for being clumsy and repetitive, while CD-Action mentions that the game world feels empty and unengaging, with tedious travel mechanics. Furthermore, several reviewers, including IGN Benelux and SpazioGames, note that while the combat mechanics are tight, they lack depth and strategic choices, which can lead to a monotonous experience. The consensus among critics indicates that while there are moments of excitement and engagement, the gameplay can often feel formulaic and uninspired. Overall, the critical consensus on Rise of the Ronin points to a game that has a solid foundation in combat mechanics but struggles with repetition and a lack of Variety. While some reviewers, like TierraGamer and Checkpoint Gaming, emphasize the enjoyable and challenging aspects of the gameplay, others, such as Game Informer and ZTGD, highlight the limitations that detract from the overall experience. The game successfully combines elements from popular titles like Nioh and Ghost of Tsushima, but it remains to be seen whether the gameplay can evolve beyond its current shortcomings to offer a truly memorable experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Rise of the Ronin boasts beautiful Edo-period environments and unique artistic direction, but critics are largely disappointed by its outdated graphics and technical flaws. Despite some appealing moments, the game's visuals lack the polish expected from a PS5 title, making it feel generic compared to AAA competitors like Ghost of Tsushima and Sekiro.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

13%

Mixed (50-79)

70%

Negative (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphical and visual design of Rise of the Ronin has garnered a mixed reception among critics, with some praising its artistic direction and immersive environments. Critics like IGN Spain and Dexerto highlighted the beautifully crafted environments that effectively capture the essence of Edo-period Japan, contributing to an immersive experience. The game features vibrant landscapes and detailed architecture, which some reviewers, such as Impulsegamer, noted as wonderfully realized, showcasing the historical setting with care. Additionally, the art direction received commendation for its unique aesthetic appeal, with The Jimquisition pointing out the pleasing designs of weapons and armor that enhance the overall visual experience. However, the overwhelming sentiment among critics is that the game suffers from significant graphical shortcomings. Many reviewers, including MGG and IGN Benelux, criticized the visuals for lacking polish and feeling outdated, often comparing them unfavorably to titles from previous console generations. Critics like Games.cz and IGN Brasil emphasized that the graphics fall short of the standards expected from a PS5 exclusive, with issues such as poor textures, inconsistent frame rates, and a dull color palette being frequently mentioned. Furthermore, several critics pointed out that the game’s visual presentation lacks depth and immersion, with CD-Action and MeuPlayStation noting that it feels generic and uninspired, failing to impress compared to other AAA titles. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Rise of the Ronin offers some visually appealing moments and a strong artistic direction, it ultimately fails to deliver the high-quality graphics expected from a modern AAA game. The majority of reviews highlight a disconnect between the game’s artistic ambitions and its technical execution, with many critics, including Variety and TechRadar Gaming, expressing disappointment in the outdated visuals and technical flaws that detract from the experience. The game seems to resonate with those who appreciate its aesthetic and historical context, but for many, it falls short of the graphical fidelity and immersive world-building seen in contemporaries like Ghost of Tsushima and Sekiro.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

"Rise of the Ronin" impresses with its atmospheric music and strong sound design, enhancing gameplay and battle excitement. However, it struggles with inconsistent voice acting and synchronization issues, leading to a mixed reception. While some praise the soundtrack, many critics point out that poor voice performances detract from immersion, indicating significant room for improvement in future titles.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

44%

Mixed (50-79)

37%

Negative (0-49)

19%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of "Rise of the Ronin" have garnered a mixed yet predominantly positive reception from critics. Many reviewers highlighted the game's music as a significant contributor to its immersive atmosphere. Carole Quintaine praised the music for enhancing the game's overall experience, while Digital Chumps noted the delightful period-appropriate music that complements the gameplay. Critics like Impulsegamer also recognized the stirring soundtrack by Inon Zur, which enhances dramatic moments, and PlaySense commended the audio quality, emphasizing excellent voice acting and sound effects. The sound design, particularly during combat, was also frequently praised, with Checkpoint Gaming and GGRecon noting the impactful sound effects that heighten the excitement of battles. However, the game has faced notable criticism regarding its voice acting and overall audio experience. Comicbook.com described the voice acting as notably poor, which detracts from engagement with the story, a sentiment echoed by GamingBolt, who referred to the voice acting as "middle of the road" and the writing as clumsy. Critics like TierraGamer pointed out issues with voice synchronization, indicating that the audio does not always align with character lip movements, further diminishing immersion. Additionally, Wccftech noted that while the soundtrack fits battle moments, it lacks memorable tracks, contributing to an overall average sound experience. The mixed reviews on voice acting quality, with some praising it and others criticizing it as cheesy or ridiculous, highlight a significant divide among critics. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while "Rise of the Ronin" features commendable sound design and music that enhances the gameplay experience, there are substantial issues with voice acting quality that detract from the overall immersion. The positive aspects, such as the atmospheric music and impactful sound effects, are often overshadowed by the inconsistencies in voice performance and synchronization. Critics like GameStar and LaPS4 acknowledged the strengths in the Japanese and German voice acting, but the mixed reviews indicate that the audio experience may not meet the expectations of all players. Ultimately, while the game succeeds in some areas of sound design and music, the criticisms regarding voice acting and audio quality suggest room for improvement in future titles.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

"Rise of the Ronin" showcases stellar voice acting in Japanese, Spanish, and Portuguese, enhancing immersion and storytelling. However, the English voice acting faces harsh criticism for being subpar, generic, and often distracting, with some reviewers suggesting players switch to the original languages for a better experience. Overall, praise for non-English performances contrasts sharply with disappointment in the English localization, impacting the game's narrative depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

41%

Mixed (50-79)

35%

Negative (0-49)

24%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in "Rise of the Ronin" has garnered a mix of praise, particularly for its performances in various languages. Critics such as GameStar and LaPS4 have highlighted the well-executed voice acting in both Japanese and Spanish, noting that these performances contribute positively to the game's immersive experience. MeuPlayStation also commended the high-quality Portuguese localization, suggesting that it enhances the overall experience despite some initial strangeness. Digital Chumps and The Jimquisition echoed this sentiment, asserting that the voice cast adds depth to the characters and enhances the storytelling, which is crucial for a narrative-driven game. On the flip side, several reviewers expressed significant concerns regarding the English voice acting. Comicbook.com labeled it as some of the worst seen in a AAA title, which detracts from the narrative experience. CGMagazine pointed out that the English performances can be over-the-top, while GGRecon criticized the English dub for sounding artificial, recommending players switch to the Japanese version for a more authentic experience. Additionally, Gamer.nl noted that the largely silent protagonist detracts from character engagement, and TierraGamer pointed out issues with voice acting not syncing well with character animations, disrupting immersion. Variety also criticized the voice acting as generic and unengaging, describing characters as "wooden nobodies." Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a polarized view of the voice acting in "Rise of the Ronin." While there are commendable performances in languages such as Japanese, Spanish, and Portuguese, the English voice acting has received substantial criticism for its lack of authenticity and engagement. Critics like TheSixthAxis and Impulsegamer acknowledged some entertaining performances, yet the overall sentiment suggests that the English localization may hinder the game's narrative impact. This division indicates that players may benefit from exploring the game in its original languages to fully appreciate the intended emotional depth and immersion.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Rise of the Ronin showcases promising technical stability and high FPS on PS5, but suffers from critical issues like frame drops and texture pop-in, leading to a lackluster experience. Despite some performance options, major glitches and inconsistent quality leave critics disappointed and questioning its polish, marking it as a mixed bag for players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

74%

Negative (0-49)

20%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

Positives: The technical performance of Rise of the Ronin on the PS5 has garnered some positive feedback, particularly regarding its overall stability during gameplay. Critics like Digital Chumps and GAMINGbible noted a generally stable experience with minimal bugs, suggesting that the game performs well under normal conditions. GIGA also highlighted the game’s ability to maintain a high FPS during gameplay, which is a significant achievement for an open-world title. Furthermore, some reviewers, such as PlaySense, acknowledged the Variety of performance modes available, allowing players to choose options that best suit their preferences, which can enhance the gaming experience. Negatives: However, the overwhelming sentiment regarding the technical performance is one of concern, with numerous critics pointing out significant issues. But Why Tho? and Gamer.nl specifically mentioned frame drops and texture pop-in as major problems, while Game Informer criticized the graphical fidelity mode for being nearly unplayable due to poor framerates. Other critics, including Push Square and RPG Site, echoed these sentiments, highlighting inconsistent performance across different modes and noticeable dips in frame rates, particularly in busy or urban environments. Additionally, critiques from Eurogamer Portugal and LaPS4 pointed out AI problems and immersion-breaking glitches that further detract from the experience. Overall Consensus: Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Rise of the Ronin has moments of stability and offers a unique experience, its technical performance is marred by a range of issues that cannot be overlooked. Many reviewers, including IGN Adria and JeuxActu, expressed disappointment in the game's technical execution, suggesting it feels dated compared to other modern titles. The combination of frame rate drops, graphical pop-in, and inconsistent performance across modes has led to a general perception that the game lacks the polish expected from a PS5 title. Thus, while there are some redeeming qualities, the technical shortcomings significantly impact the overall experience, leaving critics divided on its overall quality.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Rise of the Ronin" divides critics on replay value. Some praise its branching narratives, side missions, and customization options for keeping players engaged. However, many highlight repetitive gameplay, bland side content, and technical issues that make it feel tedious. Ultimately, while it has replay potential, its flaws may overshadow the positives, leading to a mixed reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

30%

Mixed (50-79)

59%

Negative (0-49)

11%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of critics regarding the replay value of "Rise of the Ronin" reveal a mixed sentiment, with several positive aspects highlighted. Many reviewers, such as PlaySense and Daily Star, commend the game for its significant replayability due to the Variety of choices that can alter the narrative and character relationships. Critics like Gamer.nl and TechRadar Gaming note that the game offers a plethora of side missions, collectibles, and character customization options, which can keep players engaged beyond the main storyline. Additionally, the ability to revisit missions and alter decisions, as mentioned by GIGA and Digital Trends, adds layers of depth that could entice players to explore different outcomes and strategies. Conversely, a substantial number of critics express concerns about the game's replay value, primarily citing issues related to repetitive gameplay and lack of depth. Variety and ZTGD point out that the side content is often bland and uninteresting, which diminishes the incentive to replay the game. Critics like IGN Benelux and Game Informer echo this sentiment, emphasizing that the game suffers from a lack of engaging mechanics and monotonous missions. Furthermore, reviewers such as But Why Tho? and SpazioGames highlight technical setbacks and an overwhelming loot system that can detract from the overall experience, leading to a perception of the game as a chore rather than an engaging adventure. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a divided perspective on the replay value of "Rise of the Ronin." While some reviewers, including CGMagazine and LaPS4, recognize the potential for replayability through various choices and character interactions, others, like Comicbook.com and IGN Brasil, argue that the game ultimately lacks the unique elements necessary to encourage multiple playthroughs. This dichotomy indicates that while there are features that could enhance replay value, the game's repetitive nature and technical issues may overshadow these positives, leaving players with a mixed impression of its long-term appeal.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

56%

Mixed (50-79)

43%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In analyzing the opinions of various critics regarding "Rise of the Ronin," it is evident that the game has garnered appreciation for its engaging combat mechanics and immersive gameplay experience. Many reviewers, such as GameSpot and Destructoid, highlight the game’s strong action RPG elements and its ability to blend different gameplay influences effectively. Critics like Carole Quintaine and Daily Star commend the game for its rich atmosphere and well-told narrative, pointing out that it offers a satisfying experience for players, particularly those who enjoy historical settings. Additionally, the game’s expansive world and character-driven combat have been recognized as notable strengths, with IGN praising its storytelling and attention to detail. However, the game is not without its flaws, and numerous critics have pointed out significant shortcomings. Many reviews, including those from Game Informer and ZTGD, criticize "Rise of the Ronin" for its lack of identity and failure to deliver a compelling experience, particularly when compared to other titles in the genre. Critics like VGC and IGN Brasil mention dated visuals and repetitive open-world content, which detract from the overall experience. Furthermore, several reviewers, such as Push Square and Eurogamer Poland, express disappointment with the narrative execution and the game’s inability to stand out among its peers, particularly in a competitive market filled with high-quality releases. The overall consensus among critics is mixed, with many acknowledging the potential of "Rise of the Ronin" while also highlighting its shortcomings. While some reviewers, like TechRadar Gaming and GIGA, regard it as a robust adventure with enjoyable combat, others, such as Variety and IGN Benelux, suggest that it falls short of expectations due to narrative inconsistencies and technical issues. Ultimately, the game appears to be a solid entry for fans of Team Ninja and the genre, but it struggles to achieve the level of excellence seen in other titles, leaving it as a middling experience that may only appeal to a specific audience.

TL;DR

TL;DR: "Rise of the Ronin" impresses with its engaging combat and immersive atmosphere, earning praise from critics for its action RPG elements and narrative depth. However, it suffers from dated visuals, repetitive content, and a lack of unique identity, leading to mixed reviews. While it offers a decent experience for fans, it ultimately falls short of competing titles, leaving it as a solid but unremarkable entry in the genre.

MONSTER

Reviews

214 reviews found

PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Mar 21, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

'Rise of the Ronin' showcases Team Ninja's evolution as a developer, offering an immersive world-building and compelling gameplay experience, appealing to action RPG enthusiasts and open-world adventure fans.

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Player 2

PlayStation 5

Mar 21, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Rise of the Ronin is a fun and exciting journey through history with excellent combat, though it has some challenges in open-world design and inventory management.

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Daily Star

PlayStation 5

Mar 21, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is highly praised as an excellent PS5 exclusive, successfully blending various gameplay elements and delivering a compelling experience.

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PlaySense

PlayStation 5

Mar 21, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Rise of the Ronin is a compelling PS5 exclusive with a captivating story, engaging combat, and a richly designed world, though it falls short in graphical fidelity compared to other titles.

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The Jimquisition

PlayStation 5

Apr 7, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Rise of Ronin is a highly enjoyable game that successfully blends various gameplay elements, despite some repetitive tasks and control issues.

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Impulsegamer

PlayStation 5

Mar 21, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ambitious action-RPG with meticulously crafted open-world, in-depth combat systems, well-told narrative, fantastic customization options, intriguing characters, and high replay value, making it highly recommended for Team Ninja fans and those interested in the setting.

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CGMagazine

PlayStation 5

Mar 21, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

High-quality open-world RPG blending samurai, American, and European influences. Must-play for samurai/ronin fans, offering fun gameplay and cinematic story.

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Twinfinite

PlayStation 5

Mar 21, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Rise of the Ronin is praised for its gameplay mechanics, story, and the addition of difficulty choices. It is recommended for fans of Team Ninja games and offers a fun and engaging experience, despite limitations in co-op exploration.

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TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 5

Mar 21, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Rise of the Ronin offers a rich and immersive experience with a deep story impacted by player choices, engaging gameplay, and well-realized characters, making it a highly recommended title.

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IGN Spain

PlayStation 5

Mar 21, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, Rise of the Ronin is praised for its ambitious scope, engaging combat, and beautiful world, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of Team Ninja's games.

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