The Ascent

 Xbox Series X
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 453 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 346 out of 453
  2. Mixed: 40 out of 453
  3. Negative: 67 out of 453
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  1. NBMTX
    Aug 7, 2021
    9
    I completed the game with about 24 hours of playtime, and it's probably the best cyberpunk game I've played to date. (I comment on bugs at the bottom)

    Some people will immediately write it off because of it's genre and isometric perspective, but that's just unfortunate because this game has helped me come to realize that the perspective choice is probably the best option for any game    I completed the game with about 24 hours of playtime, and it's probably the best cyberpunk game I've played to date. (I comment on bugs at the bottom)

    Some people will immediately write it off because of it's genre and isometric perspective, but that's just unfortunate because this game has helped me come to realize that the perspective choice is probably the best option for any game wanting to use such a setting. Just about every section of every region is just "gorgeously" crafted and often decrepit.

    The story is solid and rooted in the awesome worldbuilding throughout the game. If you like cyberpunk movies/games, then you'll be feeling that love shared by the devs, the whole way through. The protagonist is an indent(ured servant) so they'll always be fairly minute against the backdrop of the world, so don't expect much of a hero or anything. And you'll certainly be reminded of your place along the way (it's fun). This part of the review would be a lot more fun with spoilers, but they're probably be more fun experienced spontaneously, so I'll leave it at that.

    The combat is solid twin stick action. Lots of variety and feasible builds to suit all sorts of tastes, although I do wish they gave the option to use one armor's stats but another's aesthetics (Xenoblade has done this, and it's awesome). Upgrading weapons is very gratifying, but you're probably best off if you pick a favorite 2-4, and devote resources to that. Probably best to upgrade an energy weapon, but you can also use an augment that will convert ballistic weapons to deal energy damage, which I found to be my preferred solution. This just goes back to the builds thing. There's also a sex toy that's actually a very feasible weapon, when usually such things are purely novel.

    The world is also mixed with enemies of different levels, so there's always a sense of danger (as there should be), as you walk through. Some areas you'll have to return to full explore after doing additional leveling. This works out because you'll have to do a fair bit of backtracking, and will also help you level, because things can get pretty challenging.

    BUGS: I played on Series X, and on day one there was this sound bug that was pretty annoying. I think they may have fixed it already (about a week later at this time), because I didn't encounter it as I was finishing the game, after an update had arrived.

    There was a time my gun disappeared, I think after using a tactical skill, and I think it was fixed by going into the menu and changing the equip to something else and back. Not sure if that bug is still there.

    Not exactly a bug, but there were a couple of times where I died and the checkpoint was basically further than I'd been, so dying basically just skipped the part I died at, and topped off my health. Not the worst thing, but popping up in an area you haven't been to can be a bit confusing at first.

    With that sound bug seemingly fixed, or perhaps it's tied to the early game, I don't think these bugs are worth docking any points. That day one sound bug would've been a -1 until fixed, but without it, the others are really more than tolerable. They're not consistent, like with a broken game, but just something going on with some rare mix of things.

    TLDR: 9/10, best cyberpunk game I've played.

    Major bug has seemingly been fixed already, making a disproportionate number of the mixed and bad reviews for the game worthless. Minor bugs aren't worth any substantial deductions. Even with the major bugs on day one, I didn't want to stop playing. So the game's very good.    … Expand
  2. Lt_Maverick
    Feb 16, 2023
    10
    Easy recommendation. Great graphics and performance. Great 3d sound in “indent” audio mode on a home theater. Story is actually interesting. The combat is phenomenal. The enemies are interesting. The quests are all fully voice acted and the actors sell it well. The world is more cyberpunk than cyberpunk. Easy 10/10.
  3. madwolf81
    Sep 16, 2021
    10
    great good looking game that gave me a lot of fun. I love this game and i suggest to not look at critics and go play it
  4. rubensmiranda
    Nov 11, 2021
    10
    I really enjoyed the game. The cyberpunk design is amazing. The effects of shots and explosions in the scenarios were also amazing.
  5. Inuarcer
    Aug 4, 2021
    9
    Stunning looking game, a fresh new formula for me. I am having a lot of fun with it, I can truly reccomend it. Since it is on game pass even better. The swedish studio with 12 core people did a great work here!
  6. 7hacker
    Aug 6, 2021
    9
    El juego es genial. Tiene muchos errores porque viene de un estudio nuevo y pequeño pero la intención es genial. Las gráficas muy buenas y es divertido. Recomendado.
  7. FrostyFeet97
    Aug 4, 2021
    10
    Absolutely stunning graphics, amazing Gameplay, Game Pass day one. Not much more to say about this game. It's really fun, addictive gameplay.
  8. TheMoil
    Sep 13, 2021
    9
    Impressive game, was unexpected. Played this on both PC and Xbox with play anywhere. Highly recommend it.
  9. Lordneo3443
    Aug 2, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Aquí va spoiler.
    La prensa es basura, no sabe lo que analiza y cada vez queda más claro que no son necesarios.
    El juego de 10 quitando algún fallo técnico menor, jugablemente es un lujazo y gráficamente impacta para su estilo y siendo un juego de bajo presupuesto pocos se han visto como este en su genero    … Expand
  10. efcosplays
    Aug 4, 2021
    8
    The Ascent is a gorgeous game that knows exactly what it is. Doesn't complicate things just for the sake of "More" and isn't simplistic just for the sake of "Less." It's exactly what it needs to be, knows it and it thrives because of this. Did I mention is gorgeous? The Ascent really nails the art direction and level design. While many players complain about the map, I instead think theThe Ascent is a gorgeous game that knows exactly what it is. Doesn't complicate things just for the sake of "More" and isn't simplistic just for the sake of "Less." It's exactly what it needs to be, knows it and it thrives because of this. Did I mention is gorgeous? The Ascent really nails the art direction and level design. While many players complain about the map, I instead think the developers did never had the intention for us to play it following the map as we do with an open world game. I think the map is something we could've done without, because having it has left a desire for more on it, when it's not entirely necessary. One con I have with the combat is that you could be walking down a hallway with no enemies, but when you encounter one up in front of you, enemies would spawn out of nowhere. So, if you backtrack a bit from where you came from, where there were no enemies before, you now, out of nowhere, may encounter several of them. This really makes no sense and it's a bit frustrating to me, because when I have many enemies in up front I'd like to be able to walk back to safety. I understand devs probably want me to keep moving, but I think there are other and better ways to accomplish that. Yet, my biggest complaint is the game's performance. The game stutters with effects, especially with explosions, to the point where is game breaking. Apparently as you play along it starts to perform better. But when you close and open the game again, it starts with the struggles. I've also encountered a few bugs here and there. For example Bosses and some battle arenas have a cinematic, but if you skip these too quickly the enemies would not load properly, making you having to restart the game. I've also encountered an issue where I quit to the main menu and the game would not recognize any inputs from my controller nor keyboard, so I have to force alt-f4 quit the game instead of through the menu. There's a bit of polishing needed to be made but this game is a true gem, in my opinion. Is one of the funnest games I've played this year and I can't wait for the devs to expand on it with, possibly, new game modes and content.… Expand
  11. nigh5
    Oct 23, 2021
    10
    Great game. The map and travel system like others have said, is such a burden, but when the game finished I wanted to play it again. A game worth its price, and no question if you have gamepass.

    It's unfortunate that you don't get an extra aug/mod towards the end.
  12. Jonyps
    Aug 16, 2021
    8
    No entiendo el Hate y las Notas tan Bajas de la Prensa.
    No me esperaba nada pero es una Joya como todo lo que tiene Xbox este año.
    Se ve de Lujo en Xbox Series X.
    Y lo que queda por llegar.
    Muy recomendable
  13. Thonichi
    Aug 3, 2021
    8
    Positiv. Sounds, Grafik, gameplay
    Negativ. No German voice, Charakter editor, multi-player
    The game Ist really good. The setting is awesome and for the first game, ist really good. Some negatives but it's OK. From me it give 84%
  14. Thantris
    Aug 5, 2021
    9
    Really awesome!,, all works fine after last update, incredible adictive atmosphere and gameplay!!!
  15. JaggaFredde
    Jul 31, 2021
    9
    It’s a great game, 7-9 out of 10 depending on how much you like twin stick shooters. I love the genre so for me it’s a 9 and a total blast. Feels surprisingly fresh with the added RPG elements and dodge and cover mechanic. Looks like a AAA game but made by 12 people, it’s incredibly impressive to be honest, and the sound design is top notch!
  16. Meeleepit
    Aug 10, 2021
    8
    Visually stunning, great music in a world that feels alive.

    The developers nailed attention to details perfectly. When you walk past a security camera the camera will follow you.

    The twin stick shooting is decently incorporated in the game and i love the map.

    Excellent RPG elements.

    Game started out with a lot of bugs but a meaty patch was released couple of days after release.
  17. Morukster
    Aug 4, 2021
    10
    The Ascent possui uma ambientação impressionante, locais com muita vida e personalidade e um mundo enorme. A jogabilidade é viciante e muito satisfatória. Existem alguns problemas, como travamentos de menu, diálogos que não foram traduzidos e algumas quedas de fps, mas nada que tenha afetado minha experiência.
  18. jyd1626
    Aug 7, 2021
    8
    Real Note:76
    The ascent is a good game, with great gameplay and gunplay, however the spaces between them is long and kind of anoying, too long walks to get from point one to poing two.

    As a conclusion, good action game which could have lasted 3 or 4 hours less
  19. Papa5murf
    Aug 11, 2021
    8
    Beautiful looking game with stunning Cyberpunk visuals, super fun to play and incredibly addictive. What lets this game down though is the terrible level design and balance. Different areas will have different level of enemies, but there's no pattern - it all seems random - you can be doing a lvl 10 side quest, but actually getting to that quest you have to go through lvl 20 enemies, orBeautiful looking game with stunning Cyberpunk visuals, super fun to play and incredibly addictive. What lets this game down though is the terrible level design and balance. Different areas will have different level of enemies, but there's no pattern - it all seems random - you can be doing a lvl 10 side quest, but actually getting to that quest you have to go through lvl 20 enemies, or vice versa. Furthermore, many locations are blocked from the player and need to be unlocked in the main story, but you are never told this, and just have to be psychic or read a Wiki. It makes the whole experience very disjointed, and actually puts you OFF doing side missions because you have no idea if you can even get to that side mission.
    Then there are the bugs - this game is VERY buggy - loads of crashes (especially in multiplayer) but even solo there are many major bugs where bosses or crucial enemies don't spawn. And don't try to play this on multiplayer on Xbox One - the lag is so bad it's unplayable.
    Despite all that, it still gets an 8 from me because everything else in the game is SO good, but the whole package has been badly let down by awful design decisions and serious bugs.    … Expand
  20. John_S117
    Aug 13, 2021
    8
    I don't understand how this game has a 60 from the critics, it's a very solid 80. Amazing graphics and details, cool story, adictive gameplay and FUN.
  21. Awanka
    Nov 10, 2022
    8
    Excellent run and gun twin stick shooter similar to arcade games like Smash TV. Game looks fantastic, and really gives the feeling of being in a giant vertical urban center. The environment here does some heavy lifting, and swings between hi-tech and a slum aesthetic like something between Coruscant and a hive city from W40k.
  22. Narutratamal
    Aug 11, 2021
    10
    Una maravilla para un juego creado por 12 personas y poder disfrútalo en Game pass
  23. Alln_lk
    Aug 11, 2021
    9
    Soundtrack 10/10
    Design/stages 10/10
    Graphics 10/10
    Game-play 9/10
    Story 8/10
    Bosses 9/10
    Maps 10/10
  24. GameNotes
    Aug 6, 2021
    10
    Maybe a off-putting Learning its unique mechanics at the start. It doesn’t help that you’re in a dingy dungeon but so worth your time if you press on. I recommend playing the first couple hours with friends But not totally necessary. The main antagonist is the world itself so keep that in mind. I find they used their limitations with intelligent intention.
  25. LongDonJohn96
    Aug 9, 2021
    10
    Sound, visuals and gameplay insanly good. One of the Best indies I've played so far
  26. naora2035
    Aug 28, 2021
    10
    Отличная игра! Ничего подобного давно уже не видел. Поразительное внимание к деталям. Есть некоторые проблемы с исполнением заданий, но не критично.
  27. franjau
    Sep 7, 2023
    8
    Amazing atmosphere, best Cyberpunk game by far in it's kind, colorful world and great game design, you will not be dissapointed, one of the, if not the most immersive game of 2021 to this date.

    I do recommend it for the Xbox Series X
  28. Cevap
    Aug 10, 2021
    10
    Großartiges Spiel, tolle Cyberpunk Welt und cooler Sound.
    Für ein Team aus 12 Entwicklern, eine fantastische Arbeit.
    Hatte übrigens keine Probleme mit Crashs oder Bugs.
  29. Stanley96
    Aug 3, 2021
    10
    Jogo muito bem feito, sei que é um pequeno estúdio, mas eles tem potencial para fazer grandes triple A, estão de parabéns
  30. TheFatBear
    Aug 8, 2021
    10
    Pretty fun old school kinda shooter with some awesome graphics and atmosphere, try it on gamepass.
  31. edsalerno
    Aug 6, 2021
    9
    Muy buen juego, lo acabo de terminarlo y quede impresionado a pesar de algunos poco bugs( como en casi todos los juegos actuales) cumple y rebasa lo esperado, enganchense a la historia también es muy loca
  32. miggity106
    Aug 8, 2021
    10
    This game is highly addicting and so much fun. Only 12 people made this gem!
  33. epi1xx
    Aug 6, 2021
    10
    Great game, fun gameplay, plus it’s on gamepass. Some of the best top down shooting action that is getting released today.
  34. Bwyatt
    Aug 4, 2021
    10
    O jogo é divertido com bons gráficos , boa trilha sonora de jogo. Os mapas tem uma densidade incrível de personagens. O fato de jogar em coop com crossplay com meus amigos é maravilhoso. Esse estilo de jogo com a temática cyberpunk é perfeita. Ascent é um excelente jogo.
  35. johelrc
    Aug 9, 2021
    9
    Great game! it goes straight to the point: entertain, do not expect a wonderful rocking story... cause is no there, but the gameplay is great, ambiance is wonderful and immersive, this is the kind of game where you can easily spend hours without noticing... hard to believed that it was develop by an small group of people..
    Grandioso juego! va derecho al punto: entretener!, no esperen una    Great game! it goes straight to the point: entertain, do not expect a wonderful rocking story... cause is no there, but the gameplay is great, ambiance is wonderful and immersive, this is the kind of game where you can easily spend hours without noticing... hard to believed that it was develop by an small group of people..
    Grandioso juego! va derecho al punto: entretener!, no esperen una historia profunda oh rompedora, porque no está alli, pero el gameplay es genial, el ambiente es maravillo e immersivo, este es el tipo de juego donde puedes perder horas sin notarlo, es dificil creer que fue desarrollado por un grupo de pequeño de personas..    … Expand
  36. RavenCore
    Aug 4, 2021
    10
    An amazing game developed by 12 very talented people. Truly beautiful both in level design and sound, a work of art.
  37. Popcrat
    Aug 6, 2021
    9
    Very good game. Beautiful scenery, with lots to explore. Stick with this one past the first few hours (3-4 missions). Would certainly recommend to others.
  38. JasperThorn
    Nov 14, 2021
    8
    Having fun playing this game with friends I wanted to wait because of all issues but the game is in a very good state
  39. ArVilla
    Aug 3, 2021
    8
    I didn't know that I needed this game until I came upon it. From the amazing well crafted world to the engaging combat, I had a ton of fun playing this solo, and with a some friends.

    Are there areas that need some improving? yes, of course. The character creation could be better, the weapons system could be revamped, and the map could use some form of pinging. Also, it would be nice to    I didn't know that I needed this game until I came upon it. From the amazing well crafted world to the engaging combat, I had a ton of fun playing this solo, and with a some friends.

    Are there areas that need some improving? yes, of course. The character creation could be better, the weapons system could be revamped, and the map could use some form of pinging. Also, it would be nice to have more control options for party creation/invites.

    Are there bugs? yes, a few glitches from time to time, but nothing world ending. A simple restart was all that would be needed, but it rarely happened during my playthroughs.

    Though not a perfect game, it has been an incredibly fun game, developed by a relatively small team. At the end of the day, being a fun game is all I ever needed.    … Expand
  40. PaulClev
    Jul 31, 2021
    9
    A mix of diablo and smash tv! I love it! This game needs some tweaks, some extra detail on how the meta works. E.g Labels on the different stats. The taxi system need to be pushed abit more as missed this till I watched a YouTube. Ice and cyberdeck needs better explanation. Maybe some tool tips if you are using the wrong guns against certain enemies.
  41. AlphaTitan
    Aug 20, 2021
    10
    beautiful game and plays really good now that the first update fixed most of the bugs, a must try
  42. Robzzzz
    Aug 2, 2021
    10
    Game of the year contender for me, did not have such fun with a game in a long time, Beautiful graphics, great mechanics 10/10
  43. MarioSk
    Aug 2, 2021
    10
    Very good game, I still like a multiplayer with Random people very much, but it is good with friends, each place you explore is different with great lighting and setting with a large tree of possibilities, beginners may find it difficult to understand it since it has multiple options
  44. mastercheff32
    Aug 2, 2021
    10
    A beautiful aesthetic and a compliant gameplay for the caliber of the game, very fun.
  45. dayk0n
    Aug 2, 2021
    10
    A beautiful aesthetic and a compliant gameplay for the caliber of the game, very fun
  46. rush3rr
    Aug 2, 2021
    10
    Jogo de drogas. Mundo superdetalhado, bons efeitos sonoros e eu absolutamente amo a atmosfera do punk cibernético. Este mundo é irreal. Deveria ter sido o mundo usado em Cyberpunk 2077. Normalmente não fique louco com atiradores de stick duplo, mas este é definitivamente bem feito.
  47. Prometheus495
    Aug 3, 2021
    10
    This game is amazing I had a blast in my 50 hour play through. The Ascent is dripping with cyberpunk Atmosphere and really good music that sucks you into the cyberpunk world. The world is Breathtaking and stunning and the explosions and Send me encounters or fun. I’d recommend this game to anyone Who likes Bladerunner or top down shooters or people looking to try something new.
  48. LiKiTy
    Aug 3, 2021
    10
    a graphic section that totally reminds us of cyberpunk2077 but with glorious gameplay
  49. aArun
    Aug 3, 2021
    10
    Ótimo jogo. Os gráficos são excelentes para um atirador de dois stick. A jogabilidade é viciante, mas pode ser repetitiva. Definitivamente, vale a pena dar uma olhada, especialmente se você tiver Gamepass.
  50. patrlcio
    Aug 3, 2021
    10
    ¡Gran juego!
    ¡Uno de los mejores juegos que he jugado este año!
    ¿Y por qué las personas dan este 0? Metacritic es un sitio roto.
  51. Dejarf
    Aug 3, 2021
    10
    Very good game, I still like a multiplayer with Random people very much, but it is good with friends, each place you explore is different with great lighting and setting with a large tree of possibilities, beginners may find it difficult to understand it since it has multiple options
  52. Tenseikey
    Aug 3, 2021
    10
    Stunning visuals with mind blowing detail and volumetric lightning, fantastic gunplay, no need to grind progression (although it helps to do more than half the side missions and explore), great soundtrack/sfx. An ode to isometric games, where everything moves, glows, reflects - all in multiple depths and layers. I played the XBOX SX day one version on Gamepass, therefore I stumbled onStunning visuals with mind blowing detail and volumetric lightning, fantastic gunplay, no need to grind progression (although it helps to do more than half the side missions and explore), great soundtrack/sfx. An ode to isometric games, where everything moves, glows, reflects - all in multiple depths and layers. I played the XBOX SX day one version on Gamepass, therefore I stumbled on plenty of bugs/glitches/afterthoughts (sfx goes nuts with headphones, gun in hand randomly disappears after using augmentation, a side mission could not be finished, crash back to main screen, map navigation is really bad, some stats/interactions are not clearly explained, etc), but none of these issues deterred me from playing and finishing the game in a couple of days (and I do have a demanding day job). I just hope there’s more characters, missions and DLCs on the way.… Expand
  53. Apex8gaming
    Aug 3, 2021
    10
    Had alot of fun playing this game. And I can not wait to see what the guys will do in the future
  54. enchoo
    Aug 3, 2021
    10
    Sinceramente las notas no le hacen honor a este juegazo, una obra de arte para los ojos y la jugabilidad
  55. Neito
    Aug 3, 2021
    10
    A beautiful aesthetic and a compliant gameplay for the caliber of the game, very fun
  56. SUptor
    Aug 4, 2021
    10
    El juego es increíble, no entiendo las críticas. Ya jugué 10 horas y es un buen descanso de las aventuras de acción en tercera persona y los juegos de fps. El juego es una locura por el hecho de que solo 12 personas lo lograron. Brovo
  57. Diego12
    Aug 4, 2021
    10
    Es un sólido 9. No hay preguntas al respecto.

    Un juego económico que ofrece una jugabilidad y una estética extremadamente hermosas, un mundo increíblemente inmersivo y mucha diversión. Cada detalle te dejará absolutamente atónito.

    En serio, es uno de los mejores juegos lanzados en mucho tiempo.

    Un juego cyberpunk bien hecho.
  58. micoi
    Aug 4, 2021
    10
    Предложения Восхождения и его мира впечатляют. Суть того, что такое киберпанк, очень хорошо представлена ​​в названии.

    Игра очень нравится в кооперативе, так как ее игровой процесс поддается ему, но игра в одиночку - это вовсе не незначительный опыт.    Предложения Восхождения и его мира впечатляют. Суть того, что такое киберпанк, очень хорошо представлена ​​в названии.

    Игра очень нравится в кооперативе, так как ее игровой процесс поддается ему, но игра в одиночку - это вовсе не незначительный опыт.
  59. PolimQ
    Aug 4, 2021
    10
    Un juego divertidísimo y con un apartado grafico alucinante, le falta un pulido para darle el ultimo toque pero realmente es un juego indie increíble
  60. etxass
    Aug 4, 2021
    10
    Bestes Spiel, das ich dieses Jahr gespielt habe. Es gibt hier und da ein Problem, aber sie können nicht davon abhalten, dass dieses Spiel Cyberpunk richtig gemacht hat. Die Umgebungen sind fantastisch und das Gameplay ist hektisch. heftig und aufregend.
  61. Kaisu
    Aug 4, 2021
    10
    Si te gustan los juegos como hades o diablo este juego te encantara obviamente sufre algunos fallos en algunos aspectos pero es increible.
  62. Deezeeman420
    Aug 4, 2021
    10
    My game of the year so far. Been playing this none stop. If you like rpg shooters, this one is unlike any other and a must play. Great job!
  63. porit2
    Aug 4, 2021
    10
    Me divertí de una manera con este juego simplemente me encanto es hermoso ,
  64. Skity
    Aug 4, 2021
    10
    Un juego increible con una ambientacion Cyberpunk simplemente hermosa para los fans de este estilo.
  65. MikeSwiss91
    Aug 5, 2021
    9
    Really Good and Fun. At the Beginn some Bugs with the Map and 1 crash. But one in around 30h. So one of the best Cyberpunk Games. And much better than Cyberpunk....
  66. KWGamer
    Aug 6, 2021
    9
    The Ascent is a mixed bag, a mixed bag that is mostly full of gold with a handful of silver and bronze coins too. As an isometric shooter, it’s almost perfect if not perfect. The guns feels great, the physics and mechanics are excellent. The gunplay is highly satisfying and the addition of shooting behind cover is an innovation for twin-stick shooters and isometric action RPGs. As an RPG,The Ascent is a mixed bag, a mixed bag that is mostly full of gold with a handful of silver and bronze coins too. As an isometric shooter, it’s almost perfect if not perfect. The guns feels great, the physics and mechanics are excellent. The gunplay is highly satisfying and the addition of shooting behind cover is an innovation for twin-stick shooters and isometric action RPGs. As an RPG, the levelling up is somewhat initially confusing, but look beyond the jargon and it’s fairly straightforward. You also have the ability to reset all your attributes (for a price) and redistribute your skill points.

    As an RPG, the quests however are far too generic. Move from A to B and shoot everything that attacks you, kill a boss and maybe shoot some more. There’s no mystery to the quests, no moral choices to be made either or a choice to kill or set free to alter the story line. At launch there are some bugs, the way point is slightly broken. In one mission I’m repeatedly set to a place to deliver something but no one is there to receive it. Sometimes the way point sends me to an edge or a corner which I cannot pass. The missions have recommended levels, sometimes this is misleading since you have to pass an area which far stronger enemies. The sound effects are great, you feel the guns, the music is also good too but requires a bit more variety.

    The graphics…simply amazing. What makes me play on despite the handful of issues is the gameplay, which is amazing, the RPG elements which makes levelling up fun, the “tactics,” and the fairly interesting story where you have to discover why the largest corporation has gone bankrupt.

    Here’s hoping for a sequel, a better quest system, a way to alter the story with choice, secondary fire for the guns and a few more abilities would be welcome.    … Expand
  67. Raf2342
    Aug 5, 2021
    10
    Llevo viciando a este juego de una manera muy enorme es increíble este juego
  68. Mic2
    Aug 5, 2021
    10
    Este juego me encanto me tiene enganchado con su nivel grafico aunque le falta pulir sus disparos o incluso añadir opciones de evitar los dialogos o mini tutoriales
  69. tomyu
    Aug 5, 2021
    10
    ‎Me encanta este juego, el estilo de arte y la jugabilidad son impresionantes. Realmente recomendado para los fans frustrados de Cyberpunk 2077 . Red CD Project necesita aprender de los estudios independientes cómo hacer grandes juegos
  70. Iba3
    Aug 5, 2021
    10
    Un juego increible para el gampeass porfavor denle una oportunidad porque quisa te encante
  71. Ricio
    Aug 5, 2021
    10
    A este juego le falta un poco de pulir pero realmente es increible me tiene enganchado totalmente
  72. Alix32
    Aug 5, 2021
    10
    un juegazo con todas sus palabras, simplemente me fascino y engancho enormemente
  73. GalacticGunter
    Aug 5, 2021
    9
    The “critic reviews are way off on this one. The world they created is some of the best cyberpunk I’ve scene, and it is full of details and lore. The gameplay is top notch, lighting and animations are on point. My two main issues with the game are the sub-par character creator, and the story and lore not coming through the quests as well as I’d prefer. The codex is highly detailed, andThe “critic reviews are way off on this one. The world they created is some of the best cyberpunk I’ve scene, and it is full of details and lore. The gameplay is top notch, lighting and animations are on point. My two main issues with the game are the sub-par character creator, and the story and lore not coming through the quests as well as I’d prefer. The codex is highly detailed, and time was spent crafting the story for this world, it just doesn’t shine through the questing narrative too well. It’s there, you just have to read through the codex to get the full picture. For the character creator, I someone understand, this is a top-down, “twin stick” shooter, so you aren’t that close to your character anyway. That being said, if you’re going to put a creator in a cyberpunk world, it needs to be super fleshed out. I have always loved twin stick shooters, and to see this fresh, rpg approach makes me excited for more of this same style of game in the future. The Ascent proves that just because it’s a twin stick style game, it doesn’t have to be an arcade-like game. You can build really cool worlds and have great rpg mechanics, and get the same feel you would from a 1st or 3rd person shooter, or even a more traditional rpg. The level design is superb, and the camera work does a great job of highlighting just how much detail went into laying the city out. Great game. Once again, the “professionals” got it wrong. Don’t let the critics pull you away from this one. It’s a special game, very unique in my opinion.… Expand
  74. kuytr
    Aug 5, 2021
    10
    Es hermoso el juego y su nivel de detallado este juego con cascos es una gozada luchar contra los jefes
  75. Dleog
    Aug 6, 2021
    10
    Alucinante la manera en la que se esforzaron en este juego tan solo 12 personas es hermoso
  76. Crek3
    Aug 6, 2021
    10
    Un juegazo, espero que sigan apoyando a esta compañía indie porque lanzan un juego tan bueno como su primer titulo es increíble y poco común
  77. NoRods
    Aug 6, 2021
    10
    Demasiado bueno para ser un simple indie o incluso ser el primer juego de esta compañía 10 de 10
  78. LEn3
    Aug 6, 2021
    10
    Me fascino totalmente con su ambientación ciberpunk y por suerte ya parchearon los diálogos en ingles
  79. Farbodltu2
    Aug 7, 2021
    10
    Such a great independent game i had 10 hours of gameplay and i love this game controls are a little tricky but game is very good
  80. ShushBush
    Aug 7, 2021
    9
    Game is a blast to play and has a good amount of replay value if you have friends to play with. Different builds and weapons make playing again with friends a lot of fun. Graphics and sound are superb and with patch released it is an absolute must buy or get on Game Pass.
  81. PMG-Writer
    Aug 24, 2021
    8
    First of all, we have to praise the small developer studio of "The Ascent". The game looks simply great and very appealing. In addition, there are elaborate effects and the fantastic soundtrack. Unfortunately, the gameplay and storyline can't quite keep up as the game progresses. So you can also play the title alone or in co-op. This simply adds more fun to the experience. If you want moreFirst of all, we have to praise the small developer studio of "The Ascent". The game looks simply great and very appealing. In addition, there are elaborate effects and the fantastic soundtrack. Unfortunately, the gameplay and storyline can't quite keep up as the game progresses. So you can also play the title alone or in co-op. This simply adds more fun to the experience. If you want more than just a solid action title with bombastic graphics, you should give "The Ascent" for the Xbox Series X a chance. If you own the Xbox Game Pass, you can even get the game for free.… Expand
  82. FolkenZA
    Aug 8, 2021
    8
    I really enjoyed this game. I don't get the bad rep it's getting from critics. Yes, the co-op was a bit clunky at launch, but what MP game isn't... The SP is really solid though. Its a beautiful game with a vibrant Cyberpunk world to rival 2077. And to think it was made by a team of 12. Well done!
  83. Thedevilinside8
    Aug 9, 2021
    10
    I’m not sure what the negativity is about..this is a really fun game to play and looks gorgeous
  84. mfosa
    Aug 8, 2021
    8
    The Ascent has been on my personal wish list since it was shown during the Xbox preview last year. A few hours and missions in and it has been a fun experience. For a team of 12, the whole end product is super impressive. The environment itself is a character on its own; so beautifully designed and alive. I've been peeking levels below wondering if I could explore those areas.

    A few    The Ascent has been on my personal wish list since it was shown during the Xbox preview last year. A few hours and missions in and it has been a fun experience. For a team of 12, the whole end product is super impressive. The environment itself is a character on its own; so beautifully designed and alive. I've been peeking levels below wondering if I could explore those areas.

    A few quips for me would be Quick Resume not working as intended. Also, the information on the RPG system could be improved. It's a bit hard to decide which item is better/stronger than the other.    … Expand
  85. Nichorko
    Aug 9, 2021
    10
    Really fun game. Looks amazing, I'm having a really good time. Bosses are challenging
  86. Fabio2
    Aug 9, 2021
    10
    Je veux mettre une critique positive parce que je pense que les gens ont de mauvaises attentes. Ce jeu est un jeu de tir à deux bâtons avec des éléments rpg. J'ai joué 9 heures pour l'instant. Coop et solo, les deux expériences étaient plutôt bonnes. J'ai rencontré 1 bug (aucun son nécessaire pour redémarrer le jeu).
  87. Tjmac1880
    Aug 9, 2021
    9
    Fun game. Great controls. Great visuals, would be a 10 if coop had better matchmaking.
  88. Pirm2
    Aug 9, 2021
    10
    Unos detalles increíbles con una jugabilidad aun mas increíble, me encanto que a un juego de este porte se le diera un espacio.
  89. Phobos1881
    Aug 10, 2021
    8
    Wer Lust hat ein Diablo Style Spiel im Cyberpunk Universum zu Spielen ist hier Richtig. Respekt was ein so kleines Team hingekriegt hat. Klar Kleinigkeiten stimmen noch nicht ganz, aber die Atmosphäre stimmt, die Grafik auch und es ist sogar im Couch Coop spielbar. Leider gibt es davon zu wenige spiele. Kann das Game nur weiterempfehlen. Bin gespannt, was noch von diesem Studio kommt
  90. Cariba85
    Aug 11, 2021
    8
    nice graphics, sound and gameplay, medium story. I wish it had a German language version. All in all a nice game
  91. The_Chune
    Aug 22, 2021
    8
    Playing this co-op is a must. Solo feels like a slog but I am having an absolute blast blasting away baddies with my buddies.

    It has a decent amount of design quirks and bugs but is still beyond impressive for a studio of 12 people. I can't even get 12 people to help me move without breaking half my stuff. Ha ha ha ha ha.
  92. LazyWolf0
    Sep 2, 2021
    9
    Fantastic game, great fun. I don’t even like twin-stick shooters, but here the gameplay and gunplay is so satisfying. World design and atmosphere are simply brilliant. Visuals are stunning, and performance was rock solid on Series S.

    Don’t expect branching quests or deep story/RPG elements here, the game is simple at its core. But this core is extremely well done, and various character    Fantastic game, great fun. I don’t even like twin-stick shooters, but here the gameplay and gunplay is so satisfying. World design and atmosphere are simply brilliant. Visuals are stunning, and performance was rock solid on Series S.

    Don’t expect branching quests or deep story/RPG elements here, the game is simple at its core. But this core is extremely well done, and various character builds are very different.

    I had one crash during the playthrough, and experienced couple of unpleasant bugs. And some elements like how you can get sidequests before the areas they take place in unlock are rough, that’s why I score it 9 and not full 10.    … Expand
  93. Corchaump1010
    Sep 8, 2021
    10
    The world in this game is amazing the shooting mechanics are excellent the gameplay loop is fantastic.. could have done slightly better with the story but it didn't matter this game is super fun and the attention to detail is second to none great job by a small team on their first endeavor I recommend
  94. LouiseVictoire
    Nov 7, 2021
    8
    Aesthetically it's perfect. The gameplay is very good. The story is suite linear and has nothing exeptionnal.
    A really good moment.
  95. fredda
    Jan 7, 2022
    9
    Been playing this 2 player co-op with my girlfriend the last few days. We are having a blast. The game looks nice, and manages to create an unique steampunk atmosphere with the neon and the very fitting soundtrack. I played it first on XOne, then on XsX. The loading times are shorter and thing looks abit nicer on the XsX, but overall I would give this 8 on XOne and 9 on XsX. (Loading timesBeen playing this 2 player co-op with my girlfriend the last few days. We are having a blast. The game looks nice, and manages to create an unique steampunk atmosphere with the neon and the very fitting soundtrack. I played it first on XOne, then on XsX. The loading times are shorter and thing looks abit nicer on the XsX, but overall I would give this 8 on XOne and 9 on XsX. (Loading times steals a point from the XOne score)… Expand
  96. carlm332
    Jul 25, 2023
    9
    Every review has subjective side, it's acceptable. But this game is really a great one. I always doesn't care what editors says because their tastes and my tastes not common with them. But for this game I don't know :/ must play
  97. ImYrHuckleberry
    Sep 15, 2022
    8
    Surprisingly fun, great gameplay and a beautiful world that keeps you wanting to come back for more. The story is ok, but the gameplay and visuals are what shines.
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Awards & Rankings

70
#70 Best Xbox Series X Game of 2021
7
#7 Most Discussed Xbox Series X Game of 2021

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
68

Mixed or average reviews - based on 34 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 34
  2. Mixed: 19 out of 34
  3. Negative: 1 out of 34
  1. CD-Action
    Oct 12, 2021
    85
    Style over substance – I bet Neon Giant has this cyberpunk principle printed above the office entrance. The design of their game is absolutely breathtaking, with huge, vertical, crime-infested cities and masterful use of lights and shadows. Add a pulp-style story and good dialogues (or rather monologues, as the protagonist is silent) immersed deeply in the cyberpunk lore, and you’ve got a pure gem for anyone who enjoys this setting. The shooting mechanics and progression system might be overly simple, but they get the job done and make it easier to catch the game’s flow. [10/2021, p.56]
  2. PlaySense
    Aug 19, 2021
    75
    A visual feast that, along with the great audio design, makes for a very atmospheric experience. It's not perfect, though. Navigation leaves a bit to be desired and some technical shortcomings put a damper on the fun.
    Read full review
  3. Meristation
    Aug 18, 2021
    75
    The Ascent offers cyberpunk lovers a setting where they can unleash their dreams of steel and neon.
    Read full review
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