Rise of the Ronin: February was an unforgettable month for PS5 players, with Helldivers 2 and the rebirth of Final Fantasy 7 offering thrilling adventures. Now, Team Ninja is set to captivate gamers with the much-anticipated launch of “Rise of the Ronin” on March 22nd. After seven years of development, this open-world action RPG promises to be the team’s magnum opus, set against the backdrop of Japan during the tumultuous Bakumatsu era.
1. Historical Backdrop: “Rise of the Ronin” unfolds during the later years of the Bakumatsu era, a time of upheaval as the shogunate grapples with internal strife, while foreign powers seek to leave their mark on the land. Players will step into the shoes of a veiled edge, free to navigate a world where their actions could shape the course of history.
2. City Exploration: The game boasts three major cities to explore – Yokohama, Kyoto, and Edo (Tokyo). Each city offers unique sights and locations, from foreign settlements and Chinatown to the Emperor’s palace and the Shinsengumi’s training ground.
3. Combat Dynamics: The combat in “Rise of the Ronin” is dynamic and strategic. Players must master the art of reducing an enemy’s ki, dodging, and blocking. Ki management is crucial, as it depletes during attacks and sprints, leaving players vulnerable to counterattacks.
4. Counter Spark: Facing unblockable attacks? Fear not! The Counter Spark allows players to execute a timely parry, reducing the enemy’s ki and setting up for a quick follow-up, even in mid-air.
5. Weapons Galore: Whether you prefer melee, long-range, or something in between, the game offers a diverse array of weapons. From katanas and sabers to bows, shurikens, and even flamethrowers, players can choose their weapon of choice.
6. Combat Styles: Different combat styles are associated with specific weapon types, each offering a unique approach to battles. Muyo Ryo overwhelms foes with versatile martial arts, Yagyu Shinkage Ryu reflects the Tokugawa clan’s style, and Shinto Munen Ryu focuses on raw attacking power.
7. Style Types: Combat styles are further classified into Sky, Ki, Earth, and Jin Human types, introducing a rock-paper-scissors dynamic that adds depth to the gameplay.
8. Martial Skills: Each combat style comes with normal charge and advancing attacks, along with four martial skills accessed by holding R1 and pressing face buttons. These skills range from springboard kicks with the katana to firing haphazardly with the bayonet.
9. Grappling Hook: A versatile tool for both exploration and combat, the grappling hook can be used to grapple explosive barrels, perform stealth kills, and execute stunning mid-air maneuvers.
10. Combo Mastery: True to Team Ninja’s style, “Rise of the Ronin” features impressive combos that allow players to seamlessly switch between styles and weapons during combat.
11. Character Creator: For those who love customization, the game includes a character creator, offering options to adjust the face, hair, voice, and body shape. The extent of customization remains to be seen but promises to be on par with the developer’s previous titles.
12. Co-op Adventure: Team up with friends in online co-op for up to four players during main story missions. However, PlayStation Plus is required, and PvP is notably absent.
13. Difficulty Options: Drawing inspiration from Ninja Gaiden, “Rise of the Ronin” features three difficulty options – Don (easy), Dusk (normal), and Twilight (hard). Players can modify options in their favor for a more enjoyable story experience.
14. Bond System and Benefits: The game introduces a bond system, allowing players to build relationships with historical figures. Bonds affect the story and can result in different endings. Training with characters enhances combat styles, providing buffs to charm points and intelligence.
As “Rise of the Ronin” prepares to take center stage on March 22nd, PS5 players can anticipate a rich and greatest journey through historical Japan, where their choices and skills will shape the destiny of the veiled edge in this epic open-world RPG.