Steelrising is a singleplayer action RPG set in an alternate version of the French Revolution. Players control Aegis, a mechanical automaton, through a campaign focused on combat and exploration across detailed environments. The game emphasizes precise third-person action with a range of weapons and movement options that reward timing and positioning.
Gameplay
Combat forms the core loop, built around weapon variety and fluid movement. Aegis can perform jumps to initiate attacks from above or reposition during fights. Basic attacks chain into combos, while special abilities tied to equipped modules add layers of strategy. Exploration involves navigating interconnected areas, discovering upgrades, and managing resources to progress through the story. Character progression centers on leveling, weapon upgrades, and module customization that alters playstyle without overcomplicating the system.
The alternate-history setting blends historical elements with mechanical and clockwork themes, creating distinct locations that encourage thorough searching for hidden items and shortcuts. Difficulty options allow adjustments mid-playthrough, making the experience accessible while preserving challenge for those who seek it.
Game Modes
The game operates entirely in singleplayer. The main campaign delivers the primary experience through sequential areas and boss encounters. A New Game Plus mode, added via free update, lets players restart with carried-over character level, weapons, and upgrades on increased difficulty. This mode introduces new enemy variants with altered appearances and movesets, along with additional weapons and an outfit to support further playthroughs.
No multiplayer components exist. The focus remains on solo progression, with New Game Plus serving as the main replay incentive for completionists and those wanting tougher encounters.
Story and Setting
The narrative unfolds in a reimagined 1789 France where mechanical forces influence events. Aegis serves as the central figure navigating political intrigue and conflict. Side activities and optional paths expand on the world without requiring completion for the main thread. The clockwork aesthetic influences both visuals and certain mechanical elements encountered during play.
Is It Worth Playing?
Steelrising suits players who enjoy singleplayer action RPGs with deliberate combat and exploration. Critic reception sits in the mixed range on aggregate sites, while user feedback trends more positive, often highlighting the weapon variety and atmospheric locations. The addition of New Game Plus extends value for those who finish the campaign and want continued challenge with carried progress.
Those seeking a focused solo experience with customizable combat will find the systems rewarding. Performance and technical aspects have drawn some criticism in reviews, so expectations around polish should remain realistic. The game remains available on PC with ongoing support reflected in post-launch updates.
