The story of Ryse: Son of Rome focuses on the life of Marius Titus, as he tells the Emperor Nero of his life, beginning with the murder of his family by barbarian bandits, and his subsequent quest for revenge, whilst serving the Roman Army. The game delves into the dark and gritty world of ancient Rome, where politics and war are intertwined.
During gameplay, the player takes control of Marius in third person perspective, whilst fighting Barbarians and issuing orders to other Roman soldiers. The combat is sword-based, focusing on reflex-based quick time events (QTEs) that require precise timing and strategy to succeed.
Ryse: Son of Rome 's multiplayer mode is called Gladiator: Blood-Brothers mode , a co-operative themed experience where several players face gladiatorial challenges in the Colosseum. As progress and XP are made, players earn gold that can be spent on elixirs, weapons, and armour for their characters. Custom challenges can also be created by players.
Ryse: Son of Rome was released on November 22nd, 2013, exclusively for the Xbox One console.