When I first delved into Rise of the Ronin, it wasn’t the combat that posed the greatest challenge, but rather the rich historical context it presented.
While I had some experience with games set in late 19th-century Japan, my knowledge of the Edo period was quite superficial. However, from the outset of Rise of the Ronin, it became evident that the specific time and place of this game would play a crucial role, influencing every aspect of the experience rather than simply serving as a backdrop.
Merely scratching the surface of the setting would not suffice, and fortunately, Rise of the Ronin offers players a valuable tool for learning.
Context-sensitive Learning
In Rise of the Ronin, players can pause the game at any moment, including during cutscenes, to access a list of key terms relevant to the ongoing events. This feature allows them to delve into an encyclopedia containing detailed information about each character, faction, and their interactions. While the encyclopedia may seem overwhelming when viewed in the menu, it proves far more effective when accessed in real time. By simply touching the DualSense controller’s touchpad during a cutscene, players can bring up a list of terms related to the conversation and explore further by selecting a topic to read a concise paragraph about it.
By pressing Triangle, players can view related entries, creating an experience akin to browsing an online wiki. This feature in Rise of the Ronin enables players to explore and learn about various aspects of the game’s world, offering a deeper immersion.
While previous games like Like a Dragon: Ishin! and Final Fantasy XVI have introduced in-game encyclopedias, Rise of the Ronin merges fact and fiction, providing a comprehensive tool for players to navigate and deepen their understanding of the game world.
Rise of the Ronin empowers players to engage with supplemental materials at their own pace, providing an in-depth understanding without overwhelming them with unnecessary details. This approach enriches the gaming experience and keeps players invested in the narrative.
Features like the in-game encyclopedia in Rise of the Ronin not only enhance immersion but also make games more accessible and enjoyable for players, whether they are returning after a break or experiencing the game for the first time.
By offering resources that help players delve deeper into the game’s world, Rise of the Ronin exemplifies good design practices that benefit all players.
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