Ryse Son of Rome

🎮 Steam ⏳ 9 hours ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)

Cinematic Roman Spectacle #

This title is a visually impressive action-adventure game set in an alternate version of ancient Rome. The MC is called Marius Titus, a Roman centurion seeking vengeance, through cinematic battles and detailed historical environments. The game’s graphics, powered by CryEngine, were considered cutting-edge at the time, delivering highly realistic character models and stunning set pieces.

Style Over Substance #

And while the gameplay is decent, the story and characters are very weak, and everybody at the time admitted that this title was really just meant to be a tech demo. While the visuals stand out, the gameplay has drawn mixed reactions. Combat revolves around quick-time events and choreographed executions, which look dramatic but can become repetitive. The linear level design limits exploration, and the game often prioritizes spectacle over player choice, leading to a predictable experience for some.

Visually Driven Experience #

The narrative attempts to provide emotional depth to Marius’ journey, but historical liberties and a somewhat formulaic storyline reduce its impact. Nonetheless, some people appreciate the character-driven moments and the effort to weave a personal story amid large-scale battles. Overall, this game is best appreciated for its cinematic presentation and visual fidelity. People seeking a story-driven, visually striking Roman epic may enjoy it, but those looking for varied gameplay or open-ended exploration might find it limited.