The Ascent: Is This Cyberpunk Shooter the Future of Co-Op Gaming?

Prepare to be immersed in a neon-drenched cyberpunk world, because The Ascent, developed by Neon Giant and published by Curve Digital, throws you headfirst into the dystopian depths of Veles, a corporate-controlled mega city where survival is a daily grind. Released for PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S (and available through Xbox Game Pass), this action RPG has garnered significant attention for its stunning visuals, brutal combat, and gripping co-op gameplay.
The game revolves around a customizable character known simply as “The Ascent” – an enslaved worker who gets caught up in a corporate conspiracy after their employer, the Arasaka Corporation, is violently overthrown. This unexpected turn of events throws you into a maelstrom of corruption, violence, and intrigue as you fight to uncover the truth behind the uprising while facing off against ruthless gangs, cybernetically-enhanced thugs, and powerful corporations vying for control of Veles.
The Ascent’s gameplay is a masterful blend of twin-stick shooter mechanics and RPG elements. Prepare for frantic firefights where your precision and tactical prowess are crucial to survival. You have access to a diverse arsenal of weapons, from high-powered pistols and assault rifles to energy-based weaponry and brutal melee tools – each customizable with upgrades and modifications. As you progress through the game’s story, you gain experience points and level up your character, unlocking new skills and abilities.
This action RPG also offers an intriguing skill tree system that allows for customization based on your preferred playstyle. Want to be a tanky brawler who shrugs off bullets? Go for it! Prefer a nimble assassin who specializes in critical hits and stealth takedowns? You got it! The choices you make influence not only how you approach combat but also the role you choose to play within the co-op experience.
Speaking of which, The Ascent shines brightly when experienced with friends. Up to four players can join forces to navigate the treacherous streets of Veles and take on its challenges together. Teamwork is paramount, as coordinating your attacks, utilizing complementary skill sets, and covering each other’s backs are essential for success against the game’s challenging enemy encounters.
Exploring the Visual Feast and Soundtrack of The Ascent
One cannot speak about The Ascent without acknowledging its stunning visual presentation. The developers have crafted a truly immersive world with meticulously detailed environments that ooze cyberpunk atmosphere. From the towering skyscrapers crammed with neon signage to the grimy alleyways teeming with illicit activity, every location feels alive and believable. The game’s isometric perspective offers a unique vantage point that allows you to appreciate the intricate level design and soak in the dystopian grandeur.
Complementing the breathtaking visuals is a haunting and atmospheric soundtrack composed by Giorgio Moroder, an electronic music legend known for his iconic work on films like Midnight Express and Top Gun. The music seamlessly blends synthwave elements with pulsing electronica, creating a sense of tension and foreboding that perfectly underscores the game’s cyberpunk setting.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Graphics Style | Isometric Cyberpunk with detailed textures and vibrant lighting. |
Soundtrack | Synthwave/Electronica composed by Giorgio Moroder |
Gameplay | Twin-Stick Shooter RPG with RPG elements, customization, and co-op mode |
Platform Availability | PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S (Xbox Game Pass) |
A Cyberpunk Experience Worth Embracing
The Ascent is a triumph in the action RPG genre. Its gripping story, brutal combat, stunning visuals, and immersive soundtrack create an unforgettable experience. Whether you prefer to embark on this cyberpunk adventure solo or team up with friends for some intense co-op action, The Ascent offers a polished and engaging gameplay loop that will keep you coming back for more.
This is more than just another shooter; it’s a meticulously crafted world filled with intriguing characters, thought-provoking themes about corporate greed and social inequality, and exhilarating moments of gunplay and tactical maneuvering. So, if you’re looking for an action RPG experience that pushes the boundaries and leaves a lasting impression, The Ascent is undoubtedly worth your time.
Just be prepared to lose yourself in its neon-drenched depths - Veles awaits!