Ascension: Return of the Fallen

Arclight Games, asmodee, FunBox Jogos · Board game · 2011
1–2 · best 2 Solo 30 min Weight 2.2/5
8.3 rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BGG
Buy
8.3 rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for those who love fast-paced deck-building and want an epic challenge without the fuss. The final boss fight is the highlight!

Highlights
  • Satisfying combo building
  • Dynamic and competitive market
  • Works great as a standalone
  • Immersive thematic art
Keep in mind
  • Heavy language dependency
  • Can feel repetitive to some
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Ever had that feeling of watching your deck get more powerful while you crush your opponents? That's exactly what happens in Ascension: Return of the Fallen. This title expands the core experience, bringing 65 brand-new cards to the Center Deck, but with a cool twist: it works as a standalone game for 2 players. If you already own the base game, you can mix them all together and ramp up the action for up to six players.

The gameplay is that classic, addictive deck-building loop. You start with basic cards and recruit Heroes and Constructs to boost your plays, or defeat Monsters to accumulate honor and secure victory. But things get more intense here: now you have the God Samael in your way. Facing him is the final challenge to decide the fate of Vigil. To spice up the competition, the new 'Fate' mechanic is introduced, where a single card flip can completely shift the game's momentum, forcing you to adapt your strategy on the fly.

The great thing about Ascension is that it removes the annoyance of hunting for rare cards in random boosters. Everything you need is right there on the table in the open market, so the competition is purely about who is faster and more strategic when picking the best card. It's the perfect blend of combat-focused complexity and the fluidity of a modern card game. If you love building combos and enjoy an epic fantasy theme with unexpected twists, this game is right up your alley.
BEST PLAYER COUNT
1 OK
2 BEST
WHERE TO BUY
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Game details

Categories

Families

Digital Implementations: VASSAL Game: Ascension Deck Building Players: Games with Solitaire Rules Players: Two-Player Only Games
Publisher Arclight Games, asmodee, FunBox Jogos, Marabunta, Stone Blade Entertainment, Ultra PRO
Designer Justin Gary
Artist Eric Sabee
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need the base game to play?
Nope! It works as a standalone game for 2 players. However, if you have the base game, you can combine them to play with up to 6 people.
How long does a game take?
It's quite fast, usually lasting around 30 minutes, perfect for a quick gaming session.
Is it hard to learn?
Not at all. The weight is moderate. If you're already familiar with deck-building basics (like Dominion), you'll get the hang of it in minutes.
Is the game complex?
It balances simple rules with the strategic depth of deck construction very well.
Who is this game for?
Fantasy fans, combo lovers, and players who prefer open market competition over random booster packs.