Rise of the Ronin, Team Ninja’s action RPG set in the Edo period, has made its way to PC after a successful launch on PS5 last year. Priced at £40 / , the game is now available for players eager to explore its expansive world. However, the transition to PC has not been without its challenges.
While the allure of a systems-heavy open-world adventure is undeniable, many players have reported performance issues that detract from the overall experience. The game, which thrives on its layered combat mechanics and engaging narrative, has been marred by fluctuating frame rates and slow-motion movement in densely populated areas. Such technical hiccups can disrupt the immersive experience that players seek.
Team Ninja has a reputation for crafting compelling action RPGs, yet its history with PC ports raises concerns. The current state of Rise of the Ronin complicates the recommendation for potential players. Despite the game’s captivating premise and engaging gameplay, the unpredictable performance issues can leave one feeling frustrated.
Smooth/criminal
Having previously enjoyed Rise of the Ronin on PS5, I approached the PC version with a mix of excitement and trepidation. The initial moments were promising, with smooth gameplay and a frame rate cap of 120 on high settings. The character customization and tutorial sections flowed seamlessly, showcasing the game’s potential.
However, as I delved deeper into the game, the performance began to falter. During a mission aboard a navy vessel, the frame rate dropped dramatically with multiple characters on-screen, leading to jarring animations and audio issues. Lowering the graphics settings yielded little improvement, leaving me navigating through a sluggish experience reminiscent of a scene from a classic film.
In a surprising twist, my performance improved dramatically during a subsequent encounter, allowing me to unleash a flurry of attacks with newfound agility. Yet, this brief resurgence was fleeting, as I soon found myself grappling with performance issues once again. This inconsistency characterized my experience with Rise of the Ronin, oscillating between exhilarating gameplay and frustrating slowdowns.
The path of light
Despite these challenges, Rise of the Ronin possesses undeniable charm. Set during the Bakumatsu period, players engage in a narrative that explores the final days of the Shogunate. The gameplay revolves around ridding villages of bandits and forging connections with the local populace, which in turn enhances character development through skill points and combat styles.
While stealth mechanics exist, they are often undermined by the enemy AI, leading to a more action-oriented experience. Mastery of the game’s three fighting styles—Jin, Chi, and Ten—becomes essential as players adapt to various combat scenarios. The management of ki, akin to stamina, adds another layer of strategy, requiring players to time their attacks and defenses carefully.
The satisfaction derived from overcoming challenging foes is palpable, particularly when players successfully navigate the intricacies of combat. The bonds formed with NPCs enrich the narrative, providing valuable items and new combat styles that enhance the gameplay experience.
Ronin moanin’
Yet, the persistent performance issues cast a shadow over the game’s strengths. While some players report smooth experiences, many others share similar frustrations with optimization. The disparity in experiences raises questions about the game’s overall quality and the potential impact of an upcoming patch from Koei Tecmo, which aims to address these concerns.
As it stands, Rise of the Ronin’s journey on PC is fraught with uncertainty. While the game showcases potential and offers a rich narrative, the technical hurdles may deter players from fully engaging with its world. The future remains to be seen, but for now, the game’s performance issues overshadow its many merits.
