'Ryse: Son of Rome' trailer introduces multiplayer mode

Roman empire action title "Ryse" waited until Gamescom to show off Gladiator mode, its spin on historical combat with a theatrical twist.

The-Courtyard-arena-in-Ryse-Son-of-Rome-Photo-AFP

Roman empire action title 'Ryse' waited until Gamescom to show off Gladiator mode, its spin on historical combat with a theatrical twist.

Previously presented as a glossy single-player experience, and one that made extensive use of split-second button prompt responses, the new 'Ryse' trailer is a lot closer to 'God of War.'

Developer Crytek is better known for the graphically impressive first-person shooter series 'Crysis,' and its penchant for the spectacular continues into 'Ryse.'

The game, which at one point had been expected on Xbox 360 as a Kinect motion control showcase, features a dynamic coliseum arena, complete with baying crowd, and a raft of submerged surprises below its floor.

Tiles fall and drawbridges clatter into place, fiery pits gape, while statues, columns, glades, and barbarian camps are pushed to the surface.

Combat is based on the timing of blocks and attacks, with a selection of savage executions available to finish wounded enemies. Players swear fealty to a god at the start of each match, with associated benefits delivered in return, and shared among teammates should they maintain close contact.

With the Gladiator Mode trailer showing the sort of liberties Crytek is willing to take with historical accuracy, thoughts turn back to the single-player campaign.

Will protagonist Marius Titus face Medusa, the Gorgon and Pluto's hound Cerebus just as 'God of War' antihero Kratos battles Greek gods and monsters?