Check out our Ryse Son of Rome review, by our resident Xbox One editor Kavita Rawal, after the break. Being one of the first Xbox One exclusive games Ryse Son of Rome had to be something special and it has definitely achieved that. Crytek have done an excellent job with this game.
“the story is gripping, gameplay is awesome and the graphics are immense”
The story is based on a Roman soldier called Marius Titus who, through various events, ends up trying to restore Rome’s honour. You meet historical characters on his journey like Queen Boudica, who is an enemy, we English are always the best bad guys. The story goes into much depth with twists and insight into the Roman Gods which keeps you enthralled all the way through.
Graphics are outstanding for this game although I believe it may just be the start of what Xbox One can do. At times it looked like you were controlling a movie. Facial features and textures are highly realistic. Whilst in combat you have the option to trigger finishing moves on enemies (highly beneficial as using specific perks helps you gain health, focus, XP or attack power) these finishing moves require you to press the relevant button in accordance with the colour that shows on the enemy. I was highly entertained and stunned when I first cut off a barbarian’s arm and leg, although I was more stunned at my delighted “awesome!” as I did it. Please do not fret as even though this game is violent, I do not believe you will find any of us gamers charging into a shopping centre and re-in-acting said violence shouting “For Rome!” whilst doing so (not that any of us go out to do this with any game).
The game is all in third person mode, combat strategy is using relevant blocks, counters and combos to achieve the best results along with the finishing moves. Throughout the game at certain stages you have to order the other men with tasks, whether it be a shield wall, or to fire arrow volleys. The shield wall is a fun twist and you can use your own voice to command the men to fire volleys via the Kinect.
Multiplayer for Ryse is more of a co-op experience really. You can join a friend or a random person online and complete Gladiator events in the arena, killing a lot of ugly dudes in the process. The aim of completing these games is to build up enough gold and experience to improve your own Gladiator’s armour and level. I understand the protagonist of the game to be of one gender. I do wish, however there was the option to customise and select the gender of your own gladiator for multiplayer mode. Instead I have to play a chunky bloke wearing a cloth nappy until I get enough gold and experience to change it to a Roman skirt.
Overall thoughts:
Ryse Son of Rome is a thoroughly enjoyable game and albeit a little short for my liking, the story is gripping, gameplay is awesome and the graphics are immense. I highly recommend this game if you own a Xbox One.
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