Stylish action

"Ronin" (Devolver, PC) wears its inspiration on its sleeve. Developer Tomasz Wacławek seems to appreciate "Mark of the Ninja," and emulates a story close to Tarantino's "Kill Bill" movies. Still, "Ronin" manages to remain distinct. The innovation comes from a fascinating turn-based approach to combat, in which bullet and jump trajectories are telegraphed, leading to acrobatic exchanges of gunfire. Stylized cartoon art helps frame a simple but direct story; the heads of a powerful corporation have done something terrible, and your motorcycle heroine is out to dispatch them. "Ronin" is a straightforward adventure with a brilliant core mechanic and smart checkpoint placement and level design. If you love stylish action, but always find yourself wanting more time to strategize, "Ronin" could be just what you're looking for.

Matt Miller, Game Informer