Ronin Reviews
Ronin is a fun concept for turn-based platforming, with some of the coolest moments in platforming. But it isn't worth paying about a dollar a level, especially while lacking a decent plot and featuring unnecessarily difficult levels.
Ronin is potentially a really good game, but repetitive game play as well as a frustrating upgrade system makes it tough to finish to its conclusion.
Ronin spends more time convincing you of what it's not than it does showing you why you should care about what it is.
RONIN is fun and challenging at first but it doesn't last long. The lack of variation in its gameplay actually keeps the game's challenge level from rising significantly which isn't something players would expect for a game with a strategic vibe.
The central idea is interesting, but lacks depth
Ronin is fun to play and its strengths more than overcome its weaknesses. It lacks much by way of plot but sets a mood that creates the atmosphere it needs. It offers enough strategy and variety in its combat to overcome a somewhat short length, and invites players to playthrough again with its unscripted encounters. It has a fantastic little twist to the gameplay mechanic at the end that leads to a satisfying payoff in the final battle.
Unique non-stealth stealth game, requiring thought for its potentially punishing battles.
While Ronin lacks in story, it excels with its combat system. Because of the enemy variety, player abilities and level layout, the combat feels adaptive and is incredibly fun to play.
It feels weird to be saying this at a time when sequels are far too prevalent, but while Ronin has its moments of brilliance during its short campaign, it ultimately feels very much like a proof of concept for a more generous and balanced game yet to come.
Altogether, Ronin creates an entirely novel experience that's given a solid boost from the sound and graphic design. While some frustration crops up in enemy-heavy territory, some trial-and-error in addition to strategic thinking is more than enough to get through even the tightest squeezes.
With a little more refinement, Ronin could easily have been an enjoyable romp. It certainly looked the part and in the initial stages was a slick action platformer, but by the time the game reaches its conclusion, there's little motivation to continue. It may be short, but finishing Ronin feels like running a gauntlet by the skin of your teeth. The only kicker is, there's no moment of euphoria afterwards…
RONIN wants to be a thinking man's twitch slasher. It mixes intriguing visuals and a barebones but singular premise with an awkward interface and little variety. The first few missions are a template for the remaining game and there's little incentive to see it through to the end, much less replay it.
The challenge of remaining undetected is very difficult. . . yet it's oddly refreshing as it forces the player to act quickly, dispelling any notions of passivity
Ronin is a remarkably average game. When it works, it's kind of fun, but there just isn't enough here to maintain interest, and it has nothing that we haven't seen before.
Devolver Digital's new innovative indie is founded on a great idea that could have done with just a little more time in the oven
RONIN is over in around seven to eight hours but the lengthy design of the levels makes it feel a lot longer than that. When you're locked in a stalemate with ten armed guards, jumping around the walls to avoid gunfire is more tiresome than engaging. RONIN is good for a few short levels in your spare time, but I can't fathom playing it for a long session.
The strategy involved in each encounter really makes for a fun and satisfying game that both RPG and strategy fan can enjoy. I say give it a shot.
Ronin is not a stealth game. The self-confessed Gunpoint rip-off is a frantic, physics-defying, blood-spattering, minimalist tale of revenge. It culminates in a superb final level, offering two equally powerful endings. And while its length might leave you craving more murder-fun, it does offer a new game plus: go destroy your enemies all over again, in style.
Ronin has little plot to speak of, but is focused like it's own motorcycle helmeted avenger on a tight and tactical turn-ish-based combat mechanic. Looks a little like Gunpoint. Plays like Ronin.