Steelrising is an action RPG set in an alternate version of 1789 Paris where King Louis XVI deploys legions of automatons to crush the French Revolution. Players control Aegis, a mechanical bodyguard created for Queen Marie Antoinette, who must navigate the burning city, confront mechanical soldiers, and alter the course of events through combat and exploration on Xbox Series X|S.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on demanding combat against automaton enemies and larger machine bosses. Success depends on timing dodges, parries, and jumps while chaining attacks with a variety of weapons. Stamina limits aggressive play, forcing disciplined decisions in every encounter. Aegis starts with choices that shape early attributes, such as a focus on durability for a bodyguard approach, agility for a dancer style, or elemental abilities for an alchemist path. These evolve through upgrades to six attributes divided into health, attack, and defense categories, unlocked at Vestals that serve as checkpoints and workbenches.
Exploration expands the experience across a vertically layered Paris. A grappling hook combined with a dash ability opens routes to hidden areas, secret passages, and multiple levels within the same districts. Carriages and other tools found during progress further aid movement, encouraging repeated visits to uncover new paths and items. The detailed map supports this backtracking without hand-holding.
Game Modes
Steelrising offers a single-player campaign focused on the main story and side objectives. A free update added New Game Plus, which increases enemy difficulty and allows players to carry over progress for additional challenges after completing the initial run. No multiplayer components exist.
Story and Setting
The narrative unfolds in a reimagined French Revolution where automatons enforce the king's rule. Aegis encounters figures including Marie Antoinette, Lafayette, and Robespierre, each with shifting motives that influence alliances and conflicts. The plot emphasizes personal agency in deciding how to confront the tyrant's forces and support the revolution's success. Environmental storytelling through ruined streets and mechanical patrols reinforces the atmosphere of a city in crisis.
Is It Worth Playing?
Steelrising suits players who enjoy challenging action RPG combat paired with exploration in a distinctive historical setting. The combat rewards patience and adaptation to different weapon and skill combinations, while the grappling mechanics add meaningful vertical navigation. Reception highlights the engaging fights and art direction alongside occasional issues with responsiveness and camera control. Those seeking a focused single-player experience with New Game Plus replay value will find it a solid choice on Xbox Series X|S, particularly if they appreciate deliberate pacing over fast-paced action. The game stands alone without reliance on ongoing updates or additional modes.
