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Ryse: Son of Rome, initially an Xbox One launch title, made a splash with its stunning visuals. Developed by Crytek, renowned for pushing graphical boundaries, the game promised a visceral, cinematic experience set in ancient Rome. A year after its console debut, Ryse arrived on PC, raising the question: does the PC version deliver a compelling experience beyond its graphical prowess? This review explores the strengths and weaknesses of Ryse: Son of Rome on PC.

Marius, the protagonist of Ryse: Son of Rome, stands in a Roman setting.

A Captivating Narrative with Familiar Themes

Ryse: Son of Rome tells the story of Marius Titus, a Roman soldier driven by vengeance after witnessing the brutal murder of his family by Barbarian raiders. While the revenge narrative is a well-trodden path, Ryse manages to weave a compelling tale that draws players into the world of ancient Rome. The narrative unfolds with well-paced reveals, exploring themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the corrupting influence of power. Crytek expertly crafts a story that feels like a cinematic epic, keeping players engaged despite the predictable elements.

The characters in Ryse are well-developed and contribute significantly to the narrative’s strength. Marius, driven by rage and grief, is a compelling protagonist. Supporting characters like General Vitallion, a paragon of Roman virtue, and the enigmatic goddess Nemesis add depth and intrigue to the story. The performances and character models are exceptional, breathing life into the narrative and creating a truly immersive experience.

Marius fighting barbarians in Ryse: Son of Rome.

A Visual Spectacle on PC

Ryse: Son of Rome was a graphical showcase on Xbox One, and the PC version elevates the visuals to new heights. Crytek’s mastery of visual technology is on full display, with breathtaking environments and incredibly detailed character models. From the grandeur of the Colosseum to the serene beauty of Roman landscapes, every scene is a visual feast. The game’s impressive lighting and particle effects further enhance the immersive quality of the world.

Battles are particularly impressive, capturing the chaos and brutality of Roman warfare. While the scale of the battles isn’t massive, the level of detail and the visceral combat animations create a truly impactful experience. The PC version supports 4K resolution, allowing players with capable hardware to experience Ryse in stunning clarity. Even on lower resolutions, the game boasts impressive visuals, showcasing the power of Crytek’s engine. The facial animations and motion capture are particularly noteworthy, adding a level of realism rarely seen in video games.

Roman soldiers in formation in Ryse: Son of Rome.

Combat: Initial Promise, Eventual Repetition

Ryse’s combat system initially promises a visceral and engaging experience. The focus on melee combat, with a mix of sword attacks, shield bashes, and executions, feels satisfying in the early stages. The ability to command troops in certain sections adds a tactical layer to the gameplay.

Marius about to execute an enemy in Ryse: Son of Rome.

However, the combat quickly becomes repetitive due to the over-reliance on Quick Time Events (QTEs). Almost every enemy encounter culminates in an execution sequence requiring players to press specific buttons. While visually impressive, these QTEs become tedious and detract from the overall combat experience. The limited variety of executions further exacerbates this issue.

Marius fighting in a Roman arena in Ryse: Son of Rome.

AI and Level Design Shortcomings

The AI in Ryse is another significant weakness. Allied soldiers often stand idly by while Marius is surrounded by enemies, and enemy AI relies on predictable attack patterns. The level design is also linear and lacks depth, further contributing to the repetitive nature of the gameplay. The Gladiator Mode, a co-op multiplayer offering, suffers from the same issues as the single-player campaign.

Close-up of Marius in Ryse: Son of Rome.

Conclusion: A Visual Masterpiece Hampered by Gameplay Flaws

Ryse: Son of Rome on PC is a visual masterpiece, showcasing the power of Crytek’s engine and delivering a truly immersive experience. The compelling narrative and strong characters further enhance the game’s strengths. However, the repetitive combat, over-reliance on QTEs, and weak AI ultimately hold Ryse back from reaching its full potential. While visually stunning, the gameplay lacks the depth and variety needed to sustain long-term engagement. Ryse is a worthwhile experience for those seeking a visually impressive and narratively driven adventure, but its gameplay flaws prevent it from being a truly exceptional title.

Marius fighting a barbarian chieftain in Ryse: Son of Rome.

Marius engaged in combat in Ryse: Son of Rome.

Marius confronting enemies in Ryse: Son of Rome.

Marius fighting in a dark environment in Ryse: Son of Rome.