Team Ninja's Rise of the Ronin signifies a significant departure for the studio on multiple fronts. The game not only brings Team Ninja's distinct style to the open-world genre but also delves into a more grounded narrative inspired by historical events. While this move towards realism has its merits, it also restricts the studio from showcasing its prowess in creating supernatural foes, a hallmark of Team Ninja's previous works.

Since the revitalization of the Ninja Gaiden series, fantastical creatures have been a staple in Team Ninja's games until the release of Rise of the Ronin. Titles like the Nioh series and Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty have featured intricate and fearsome enemies drawn from Eastern folklore. The absence of these supernatural elements in Rise of the Ronin feels like a missed chance, especially considering the studio's expertise in this area.

Diversity in Human Enemies but a Lack of Fantasy

Rise of the Ronin immediately impresses with its combat mechanics, blending the strategic depth of Team Ninja's previous games with a more accessible approach akin to titles like Ghost of Tsushima and recent Assassin's Creed entries. While the game offers a range of human adversaries, such as samurai, bandits, and American soldiers, the absence of iconic yokai and other supernatural beings is noticeable.

Although the game's focus on realism is understandable, the omission of fantastical creatures like yokai, which are synonymous with Team Ninja's expertise, creates a void in Rise of the Ronin. This departure from the studio's established enemy roster sets the game apart from its predecessors.

Envisioning Yokai in the Future of Rise of the Ronin

Given the thematic connection between Rise of the Ronin and Team Ninja's Ninja Gaiden series, a potential crossover with the Nioh franchise through DLC seems plausible. While the exact form of such content remains uncertain, incorporating elements from Nioh into Rise of the Ronin could present an exciting opportunity for players.

If a Nioh-inspired DLC materializes, players could experience a fusion of gameplay styles, introducing yokai and endgame challenges to Rise of the Ronin. This addition not only addresses the lack of supernatural foes but also offers a fresh layer of depth to the game. Despite the absence of official confirmation, the potential for a yokai-filled expansion remains an intriguing prospect.