Ryse: Son of Rome multiplayer hands-on - Xbox One's bloodiest co-op modeAre we entertained? Aoife sizes up Gladiator mode
Whilst Jonty was off getting to grips with Ryse's unapologetically gory single player combat at Gamescom, I was busy kicking up clouds of dust and blood in the Coliseum - clashing swords and shields with strangers in the newly announced co-operative multiplayer mode, Gladiator.
This mode primarily focuses on wave-based combat spread across 11 different maps at launch, though Xbox One owners who procured the console's Day One edition will have access to an additional map, Ruins, which sets the action amidst the columns of an old abandoned temple. Whichever map you choose though, you'll be dealing with increasingly well-armoured aggressors, starting with barely competent bandits and carving a bloody path right up to armoured barbarian leaders dual-wielding flaming swords.
The enemies aren't the only thing you should be worried about though. Inspired by the shifting wooden floor panels used in the gladiatorial arenas of ancient Rome, Ryse's Coliseum will feature elaborate set pieces which will move and transform as you progress, opening up new platforms and areas, as well as unveiling new weapons and traps - which are as likely to ensnare you as they are to help. During my playthrough, for example, I was able to tip a cauldron full of burning oil on my opponents, before impaling an unlucky survivor on a nearby spike trap. Moments later, mid-celebration, I accidentally triggered a pressure plate - and received a pike through the gut for my troubles.
There's more to the incredibly violent action than abject cruelty, however. You're there to entertain the baying, bloodthirsty masses, and spectator feedback impacts heavily on your final score. The mood of the mob is represented by a meter in the middle of the screen, which will range from "bored" to "enraptured" depending on your performance. The aim is to keep your attacks varied whilst avoiding being hit yourself, thus increasing your multiplier which in turn allows you to pull off more stylish executions, to ensure your audience stays awake. Mastery of the multiplier requires you to pay close attention to your timing; block enemy attacks and parry at just the right moment and you'll unlock a higher tier execution.