7.5 /10 21

The Ascent is an action-shooter RPG set in a sprawling cyberpunk arcology that sets a new benchmark for visual fidelity in the genre. Developed by a small team, it punches well above its weight class with stunning environments and destructive combat. While critics lauded its atmosphere and shooting mechanics, the launch suffered from bugs and uneven difficulty. Players will explore the vertical city of Veles, fighting corporate overlords in a world that feels incredibly alive.

How to Play The Ascent

A twin-stick shooter with cover mechanics and RPG looting systems played from an isometric perspective.

1. Controls – Twin-stick aiming (move/aim) with shoulder buttons for abilities and tactical grenades.
2. Progression – Level up to allocate skill points into cybernetics like aiming or health.
3. Combat/Mechanics – Use the unique ‘high/low’ aiming system to shoot over cover or target smaller enemies.
4. Tips – Constantly switch weapons based on enemy type (ballistic vs. energy) to maximize damage.

Who Should Play The Ascent

Perfect for players who love the Cyberpunk aesthetic and chaotic, screen-filling cooperative combat.

• Player 1 – The ‘Diablo’ fan looking for guns and sci-fi instead of swords and magic.
• Player 2 – Couch co-op groups wanting a challenging weekend campaign.
• Player 3 – Graphics enthusiasts wanting to see Unreal Engine lighting pushed to the limit.
• Skip if – You want a deep narrative choice system like Mass Effect; this is a shooter first.

The Ascent Platform Performance

Visually demanding with heavy use of particle effects and ray-tracing features on supported hardware.

The Ascent System Requirements

Requires a decent mid-range rig for 1080p, but high-end cards are needed for Ray Tracing.

Similar Games to The Ascent

If the neon-soaked violence of Veles appeals to you, check out these intense top-down shooters.

• Ruiner – Faster, darker, melee-focused cyberpunk combat without the open world.
• Alienation – purely arcade twin-stick shooter with heavy loot mechanics.
• Diablo IV – The king of isometric ARPGs, though fantasy-themed.
• Helldivers – Focuses more on tactical squad play and friendly fire chaos.

The Ascent vs Competitors

The Ascent offers AAA visuals at an indie price point, standing out against pricier rivals.

The Ascent Story & World

You are an indentured worker (‘indent’) for the Ascent Group, the mega-corporation owning everyone in the arcology. When the corporation suddenly collapses, chaos ensues, and security systems fail. The story is a backdrop for the world-building, which is incredible—layers of trash, alien linguistics, and neon advertisements create a dense, oppressive atmosphere that tells a story purely through visuals.

The Ascent Multiplayer & Online

Supports full campaign co-op for up to 4 players, both locally and online.

• Campaign Co-op – Play the entire story with friends; difficulty scales with player count.
• Local Play – Supports 4-player couch co-op on all console platforms.
• Loot Sharing – Loot is instanced so players don’t fight over guns.
• Cross-Play – Available between Xbox and Windows Store PC versions.

The Ascent DLC & Expansions

Post-launch support included paid story content and free cosmetic packs.

• Cyber Heist – Major expansion adding new weapons, locations, and melee combat ($9.99).
• CyberSec Pack – Adds new explosive weapons and armor sets.
• Ching Ming Pack – Free cosmetic update with new skins.
• New Game+ – Added for free, allowing players to restart with high-level gear.

The Ascent Community & Support

The developers are responsive, though major updates have slowed since the DLC release.

• Official Forums – Steam Community Hub is the main source of news.
• Reddit/Discord – Active r/theascent community sharing builds.
• Mod Support – Limited official support; mostly reshade presets available.
• Updates – Most major bugs from launch have been patched.