Ruse Returns: 2010 WW2 RTS Re-Released on Steam with Updates

Ruse, the World War II real-time strategy game developed by Eugen Systems, has made a surprising return to Steam over a decade after its initial release and subsequent removal in 2015 due to licensing issues with publisher Ubisoft. This re-release marks a significant event for fans of the game and the RTS genre, especially given the game's positive reception upon its initial launch, where it garnered an 84% review score for its novel approach to a traditional theme.

The game's return is not without its nuances. Eugen Systems, now acting as both developer and publisher, has included all previously released DLC, along with unspecified technical updates aimed at ensuring compatibility, and notably, full support for the Steam Deck. In a statement, Eugen Systems reflected on the game's history, saying,

"While we developed and launched Ruse in 2010, the game didn’t officially belong to us."

What Is Ruse and Why Does Its Return Matter?

Ruse is a WW2 RTS that stood out in 2010 for its innovative gameplay mechanics within a saturated genre. Its return to Steam, after being sidelined due to distribution constraints, is a boon for strategy enthusiasts and those who missed out on the game the first time around. The inclusion of all DLC and support for modern platforms like the Steam Deck makes this re-release particularly appealing, despite the game not being a remaster.

The significance of Ruse's return lies in its appeal to both nostalgic players and new generations of RTS fans. Given the game's age, its re-release with support for contemporary hardware is a notable effort to make a classic title accessible. However, the $30/£26.49/€30 price point has drawn criticism from some potential buyers who feel the cost is high for a game of its vintage, especially considering it's not a remastered version.

Gameplay, Updates, and Community Response

Gameplay-wise, Ruse remains true to its 2010 form, offering a very good, albeit dated, RTS experience. The technical updates, while not explicitly detailed, are designed to enhance compatibility and playability on modern systems, including the Steam Deck. A significant aspect of this re-release is the community's overwhelmingly positive response, with 197 positive user reviews outweighing just 2 negative ones at the time of writing.

Notably, existing owners of Ruse are entitled to the updates and DLC at no additional cost, a move that underscores Eugen Systems' effort to support both old and new players. However, a caveat for returning players is that old saves and replays are not accessible in the re-released version to prevent compatibility issues, though they can still be accessed through the "Compatibility Branch" in the game's Steam properties.

Criticisms and the Future of Ruse

Despite the largely positive reception, criticisms center around the game's price and the lack of a full remaster. For some, the $30 tag is steep for a game that, aesthetically and mechanically, remains firmly rooted in 2010. Additionally, the incompatibility of old saves in the main branch, while understandable for stability reasons, may disappoint some veteran players.

Looking forward, Ruse's re-release on Steam, free from the licensing entanglements of the past, suggests a new chapter for the game. With Eugen Systems fully at the helm, possibilities for future support or even new content, though unannounced, cannot be ruled out. For now, the game's return is a celebration of its enduring appeal and a testament to the dedication of its fan base.

Verdict

Ruse's return to Steam is a welcome event for the RTS community, offering a chance to experience or revisit a title that, despite its age, retains its strategic depth. While the price may deter some, the overwhelmingly positive community response and the game's inherent quality make it a worthwhile purchase for fans of the genre. The lack of a remaster and old save incompatibility are notable drawbacks, but they do not overshadow the significance of Ruse's re-emergence.