Ruse is a real-time strategy game that was released in 2010 for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC. The game is set during World War II and features a unique gameplay mechanic that allows players to use deception and bluffing to trick their opponents. Ruse is one of the games that are compatible with the Xbox Series X, the latest console from Microsoft that was launched in 2020. In this review, I will evaluate how well Ruse performs on the Xbox Series X and whether it is worth playing in 2023.
The first thing that I noticed when I launched Ruse on the Xbox Series X was how fast the game loaded. Thanks to the console’s SSD and Quick Resume feature, I was able to start playing the game in less than 10 seconds, compared to the minutes that it took on the Xbox 360. The game also ran smoothly and without any noticeable lag or stuttering, even when there were many units and explosions on the screen. The game’s graphics also looked sharper and more detailed, thanks to the console’s 4K resolution and HDR support. The game’s art style, which uses a mix of realistic and comic book-like visuals, still holds up well after a decade and creates a distinctive atmosphere.
The game’s gameplay is where Ruse really shines. The game is not a typical real-time strategy game, as it does not focus on base building, resource gathering, or unit production. Instead, the game revolves around the use of ruses, which are special abilities that can alter the perception of the battlefield. For example, you can use a ruse to hide your units, create fake units, reveal enemy units, jam enemy communications, or boost your own units’ morale. The game’s ruses are based on historical deception tactics that were used during World War II, such as Operation Mincemeat, Operation Fortitude, or Operation Quicksilver. The game’s ruses add a layer of strategy and unpredictability to the game, as you have to constantly guess what your opponent is planning and how to counter it.
The game’s campaign mode consists of 23 missions that span the major theaters of World War II, such as North Africa, Europe, and the Pacific. The missions are varied and challenging, as they require you to adapt to different scenarios and objectives. Some missions involve defending a position, capturing a territory, destroying a target, or escorting a convoy. The game’s difficulty can be adjusted to suit your preference, from easy to very hard. The game’s AI is smart and will use ruses against you, so you have to be careful and vigilant. The game’s campaign mode also has a story that follows the exploits of Joe Sheridan, an American officer who works for the Allied intelligence. The story is engaging and has some twists and turns, but it is not the main focus of the game.
The game’s multiplayer mode is where the game really shines. The game supports up to eight players online or locally, and you can choose from six factions: USA, UK, France, Germany, Italy, or USSR. Each faction has its own strengths and weaknesses, as well as unique units and ruses. The game’s multiplayer mode has several modes, such as Domination, Blitz, or Nuclear War. The game’s multiplayer mode is fun and competitive, as you have to outsmart and outplay your opponents using ruses and tactics. The game’s multiplayer mode also has a ranking system and leaderboards, so you can track your progress and compare your skills with other players.
Ruse is a game that deserves more attention and recognition. The game is a refreshing and innovative take on the real-time strategy genre, and it offers a lot of replay value and enjoyment. The game is also enhanced by the Xbox Series X’s features, such as faster loading, smoother performance, and better graphics. The game is not perfect, as it has some minor flaws, such as occasional glitches, repetitive voice acting, or lack of customization options. However, these flaws do not detract from the game’s overall quality and appeal. Ruse is a game that I would recommend to anyone who likes strategy games, history, or deception. Ruse is a game that will keep you on your toes and make you think.
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