Rogue-like games were never my first choice. Despite spending dozens of hours on titles like Hades and Dead Cells, I rarely felt fully drawn to the genre. But The Rogue Prince of Persia managed to break that pattern. Ubisoft handed development over to Evil Empire—the team behind Dead Cells—and the result was a game that exceeded expectations and delivered a refreshing, enjoyable experience. Here’s our full The Rogue Prince of Persia review.
One of the Most Engaging Rogue-like Stories
The game takes us back to the heart of Persia, where the Prince faces a devastating invasion from the Huns—nomadic tribes known for sweeping across Europe in the 4th and 5th centuries, and in this story, reaching Persia itself.
At the start, the Prince is slain by the Huns’ warlord. But a magical amulet brings him back to life after three days, setting him on a journey to repel the invaders and save his homeland from the shadows of sorcery and destruction they unleashed.
What sets the narrative apart is how it evolves with every run. You might meet a blacksmith offering weapons, or encounter a character who assigns quests in the central oasis, rewarding you with XP and perks. Choices affect story branches: in one run, you may witness your brother Shahin killed before your eyes, while in another, you manage to save him. This branching design ensures no two players experience the story the same way.
The downside is its short length. The main storyline can be completed in roughly eight hours, and beyond that, the game doesn’t provide enough extra content or incentives to encourage extensive replay.
Gameplay at the Core of The Rogue Prince of Persia
Gameplay is where the game shines. It combines fast platforming with action combat, creating encounters that feel both dynamic and challenging. The Prince’s agility allows for double jumps, wall running, and climbing—echoing the franchise’s classic roots. These mechanics aren’t just for show but vital tools for overcoming traps and using the environment strategically.
Combat blends quick attacks and special abilities, supported by a variety of weapons like swords, spears, and ranged options. Each weapon introduces a different playstyle, encouraging experimentation. Enemy variety pushes you to adapt tactically, whether through speed, environmental use, or specific abilities.
The rogue-like elements are ever-present: each new run randomizes levels, enemy placements, and loot. Progression between runs lets you upgrade the Prince’s skills and unlock permanent perks, balancing challenge with steady advancement.
Still, the experience isn’t flawless. Some attacks occasionally fail to register, breaking combat rhythm. Difficulty also fluctuates unpredictably—some runs feel overwhelmingly punishing due to enemy density or extended parkour sections that unfairly drain stamina. These inconsistencies may frustrate players, especially after long stretches of progress.
Gorgeous Visuals and Epic Soundtrack
The Rogue Prince of Persia opts for a hand-drawn 2D art style, perfectly fitting its rogue-like structure. Bright, vibrant colors bring Persia’s deserts, oases, and palaces to life. Character and enemy designs are distinct and visually clear, aiding fast-paced combat.
Some may feel this artistic approach lacks the realism and grandeur of earlier Prince of Persia titles, but Ubisoft clearly prioritized artistry over raw technical realism.
The soundtrack is among the game’s strongest features. Blending traditional Eastern instruments with modern beats, it captures Persia’s atmosphere while maintaining a sense of mysticism. Calm tracks set the mood during exploration, while fast-paced compositions elevate boss fights and intense battles. Sound effects, from weapon clashes to ambient audio, were polished with care, completing the immersive audiovisual experience.
Available Day One on Subscription Services
One of the game’s biggest strengths is its accessibility. The Rogue Prince of Persia launched day one on PlayStation Plus Extra and Xbox Game Pass, giving subscribers instant access without additional cost. This smart move lowers the barrier for players unfamiliar with rogue-likes and encourages experimentation without financial risk.
The Rogue Prince of Persia Review Final Verdict
The Rogue Prince of Persia may not be the longest or grandest entry in the franchise, but it successfully reimagines the series with rogue-like mechanics. It delivers fluid parkour, fast-paced combat, and a branching story that feels fresh each run.
While its short story length, inconsistent difficulty, and occasional technical hiccups hold it back, the game remains accessible and rewarding—especially thanks to its presence on subscription platforms.
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