Red Ronin (2021)

Red Ronin is an indie that unites action and board mechanics in an exciting turn-based tactical game. The visual and sound effects are very stylish and convey the feeling of extreme skill on the part of the protagonist. The first half of the campaign is excellent and will hook the player, but the final missions can be a rather tiring exercise in trial and error. It's a title with interesting premises and recommended for anyone who wants to try a tactical puzzle, but with frantic action.

The formula proposed by Red Ronin, within its simplicity, offers enough entertainment to invest the approximately six hours of duration it offers. Although its audiovisual section has its lights and shadows, the general set shows a good finish.

Red Ronin is a fun, addictive strategy game with great level design that constantly evolves to keep the game fresh. The power-up mechanics allow you to be creative with your strategy although some of the later levels do feel restrictive. A lack of story polish does hold it back a little but ultimately Red lets her blade do the talking. If you’re into fast-paced puzzles with a smattering of blood and guts, I’ve no doubt you’ll be dashing out to buy Red Ronin. I give Red Ronin the Thumb Culture Bronze Award.

Red Ronin might not be the turn-based tactical game that its main menu implies, but it is a great puzzle game with a popping soundtrack, nice visual effects, and stellar level design. The real-time elements are really interesting and unique, even if it introduces them with all gentleness of a rampaging rhino. If the technical issues can be fixed, Red Ronin could certainly take a seat atop its throne of blood.

For people who like their puzzles just a little bit different and their pixel art filled with severed limbs Red Ronin is an absolute must.