Ryse: Son of Rome

The main pros of the game

• Cinematic Experience: Many users praised the game for its cinematic qualities, likening it to epic films like "Gladiator" and "300." The storytelling and cutscenes are engaging, making players feel immersed in the Roman setting.
• Graphics: The visuals received high acclaim, with many noting that the graphics still hold up well even years after its release. The attention to detail in the environments and character models was particularly highlighted.
• Short and Engaging Story: The game’s linear narrative, while short (typically 4-8 hours), was described as enjoyable and well-paced, making it a great option for players looking for a quick gaming experience.
• Combat Mechanics: While some found the combat repetitive, others enjoyed the execution mechanics and the satisfaction of performing brutal finishers. The Gladiator multiplayer mode, despite being less active, was also mentioned positively.
• Accessibility: The game was noted for being straightforward and accessible, appealing to those who prefer a less complex gaming experience.

The main cons of the game

• Repetitive Gameplay: A common criticism was the combat's repetitiveness and simplicity, with many expressing that the mechanics could become dull over time.
• Performance Issues: Users reported significant performance problems, including low frame rates and optimization issues on modern PCs, which detracted from the overall experience.
• Short Length: While some appreciated the brevity, others felt that the game was too short and lacked depth, leading to a feeling of incompleteness.
• Lack of Character Development: The story and characters were often described as predictable and lacking depth, with few memorable characters or plot twists.
• Dead Multiplayer: The multiplayer aspect was noted as being largely inactive, making it difficult to enjoy the co-op mode without friends.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

• Improved Combat Mechanics: Users suggested that the combat system could benefit from more complexity and depth, as well as the ability to cancel animations during fights.
• Better Optimization: Many reviews called for better optimization for modern hardware, as performance issues were a significant drawback for players.
• Character Customization: Some players expressed a desire for more character development and customization options, as the existing upgrade system felt grindy and underexplained.
• Replay Value: There were mentions of a lack of replayability once the story was completed, indicating that players would like more content or varied gameplay to encourage multiple playthroughs.
• Camera Control Options: Some players wished for options to adjust camera behavior, such as disabling auto-centering on the character.

Summary

• Overall, "Ryse: Son of Rome" is viewed as a visually stunning and entertaining game with a strong cinematic feel, but it suffers from repetitive gameplay, performance issues, and a lack of depth in its mechanics and character development.

Summary generated on: October 8, 2025