KOEI TECMO and Team NINJA have officially launched their open-world action RPG, Rise of the Ronin, on Windows PC via Steam. Originally a PlayStation 5 exclusive, the game now offers a host of PC-centric enhancements, bringing the historical tale of a masterless samurai to a wider audience.
Set in Japan’s late Edo period, Rise of the Ronin immerses players in the turbulent Bakumatsu era. Political strife and war have divided the nation, and players assume the role of wandering warriors shaping their own destinies. The game blends historical events and figures with a dynamic choice-based narrative, allowing players to forge alliances, betray factions, or chart a neutral course as they navigate Japan’s transformation.
A Visually Stunning Experience with PC Enhancements
The PC release of Rise of the Ronin introduces several technical upgrades aimed at delivering a high-fidelity experience. Players with high-end hardware can take advantage of the following features:
- 8K Resolution Support – Experience Japan’s stunning landscapes in extreme detail.
- DirectX 12 Ultimate – Improved rendering efficiency and advanced graphical capabilities.
- Ultra-wide and Super Ultra-wide Monitor Support – Expanded field of view for immersive gameplay.
- 120 FPS Support – Smoother combat and traversal animations.
- Ray Tracing – Enhanced lighting, reflections, and shadows.
- 3D Audio – Heightened spatial awareness during battles and exploration.
- Customizable Controls – Full keyboard and mouse support with remappable inputs.
- AMD FSR, NVIDIA DLSS, and Intel XeSS – Cutting-edge upscaling technologies to boost performance without sacrificing visual fidelity.
- Mouse-clickable UI Menu – Streamlined navigation for PC users.
Exploring 19th Century Japan
Rise of the Ronin offers a richly detailed open world spanning Edo, Yokohama, and Kyoto. The game dynamically reflects seasonal changes, showcasing cherry blossoms in spring and golden foliage in autumn. Traversal options include a grappling rope for vertical movement and a glider for aerial exploration. Additionally, players can capture breathtaking vistas using an in-game photo mode.
Combat System and Customization
Team NINJA has built an intricate combat system that balances accessibility with depth. Players can wield an array of melee and ranged weapons, with each encounter demanding strategic adaptation. The game also introduces a “Veiled Vow” system, allowing players to develop relationships with key historical and fictional characters, influencing the story’s direction.
For early adopters, KOEI TECMO is offering a pre-order bonus for purchases made before April 2nd, which includes:
- Four combat styles: Hayabusa-ryu (katana), Hayabusa-ryu (naginata), Nioh-ryu (katana), Aisu Kage-ryu (katana).
- Iga Ninja Armor Set
- Iga Ninja’s Katana
Launch Issues and Upcoming Fixes
Despite the impressive technical advancements, some players have reported performance issues on the Steam edition, particularly when using the “Ultra” preset. The developers have acknowledged the following problems and provided temporary workarounds:
- FPS Drops and Rendering Issues – Lowering the preset to “High” or “Standard” may resolve these issues.
- Slow Motion Gameplay at 120 FPS – Setting the FPS Limit to 60 may prevent this problem.
KOEI TECMO has confirmed that a patch is in development to address these concerns and improve overall stability.
Final Thoughts
The arrival of Rise of the Ronin on PC marks a significant expansion for KOEI TECMO and Team NINJA. With enhanced visuals, deeper customization, and a rich historical setting, the game offers a compelling experience for both returning fans and newcomers. As patches and optimizations roll out, players can expect smoother performance and an even more refined journey through 19th-century Japan.
For those interested, Rise of the Ronin is now available for purchase on Steam.
