Cyberpunk action-RPG

The Ascent is a role-playing game and is the debut title of its developer, a 12-person studio named Neon Giant. It offers a solo and co-op action-shooter gameplay set in a cyberpunk world. Here, you will control an indentured laborer who becomes involved in a mystery as they battle for their freedom. 

If you are a fan of Cyberpunk 2077, you will find some similarities to both games. However, a few minutes in and you will see that The Ascent has a unique take on the cyberpunk sub-genre and promises a different experience, taking more a high science fiction version. 

What can you expect from the game?

The world of The Ascent will take players to a dystopian city on an alien planet called Veles. It is a cramped and rundown area run by a greedy conglomerate called The Ascent Group. However, the company’s grip on the city is lost, and various players lead an uprising against them. As mentioned, you will play as one of the laborers, fighting for your freedom against oppression. 

The Ascent takes on a more isometric RPG approach with a splash of action, playable solo, or with a team. It has fast-paced game elements, where twin-stick shooters are melded with fantasy RPG abilities similar to Divinity: Original Sin. The focus will be on finding better loots, exploring the city, and body modifications typical of cyberpunk media.  Unlike Cyberpunk 2077, however, it contains more condensed battlefields. 

However, while it’s an honest-to-goodness cyberpunk game, it comes with tons of issues. For one, the game’s loots, while varied, are nothing spectacular. There is also a good chance of getting various duplicates. The map is also frustratingly unhelpful. Moreover, you will run into quest-breaking bugs, from bosses respawning to AI enemies freezing. Plus, since it is a twin-stick shooter with cinematic views, expect a few camera issues. 

Good concept that needs improvement

The Ascent is a beautiful game if you want a fun shooter RPG in a stunning cyberpunk universe. The game draws a stunning cyberpunk world that is worth exploring. However, it looks to be overburdened by ambition. The scale of the world is grand, but there’s little interest to do in it. It is also densely populated with characters. Moreover, the combat, while tight to control, has little real variation.