Info about Ascension: Deckbuilding Game:

Official game description:
Ascension: Deckbuilding Game is now available for your PC and Mac, complete with 9 full expansion decks and five full promo card packs! Play alone or with friends to battle against the Fallen One for honor and victory. Conceived and designed by Magic: the Gathering tournament champion and game designer Justin Gary, Ascension will provide hours of engaging and strategic game play for enthusiasts and experienced gamers alike.  
Highlights  
• Over 600 beautifully detailed cards.  
• Full asynchronous support for multiplayer online games.  
• Play against multiple A.I. opponents using varied strategies.  
• Introductory tutorial to teach you how to play.  
• 9 full expansion decks included: Return of the Fallen, Storm of Souls, Immortal Heroes, Rise of Vigil, Darkness Unleashed, Realms Unraveled, Dawn of Champions, Dreamscape, War of Shadows, and promo card packs #1 to #5 also included!

Release date: Dec 16, 2014

Categories: Deckbuilder, Card Game, Digital Board Game Adaptation, Single-player Story, Online Multiplayer, Hotseat Multiplayer, Card Battles with Minion Summoning, Fantasy

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 15; verdict: Fair — Traditional DLC Only; summary: The reviews primarily describe a one-time base purchase with many expansions included and optional paid DLC for newer content. Multiple users explicitly deny microtransactions and pay-to-win mechanics, and the DLC is often described as reasonably priced. The main real-money friction is platform-specific DLC repurchase, while vague complaints about microtransactions or the physical board game do not establish predatory in-game monetization.
- Wiki: score 10; verdict: Tier 4: Tourist (Low Wiki Tax); summary: The dataset contains only a few relevant signals. One note reports fixed bugs and links a patch mirror; other comments discuss optional online opponent search, occasional interface help lookup, and positive alt-tab/second-screen use. No review mentions drop rates, farming routes, loot tables, safe-to-sell valuation, inventory management, blueprints, crafting requirements, quest outcomes, builds, secrets, or complex mechanics. The strict scoring hierarchy therefore falls to the default Tier 4 profile despite the bug mention.
- Proton/Linux: score 86; verdict: Broken / unsupported on Proton after update; summary: Linux/Proton evidence in this sample is sparse but uniformly negative. One user reports that the latest update broke compatibility with every Proton version, and another notes that the game appears available in the Linux Steam client even though it is not. There are no Linux-specific reports of successful launch or stable gameplay, while most other reviews discuss board-game value or general PC dissatisfaction and were not treated as Linux compatibility evidence.
- Steam Deck: score 90; verdict: Broken; summary: The Steam Deck experience is heavily affected by unreadable card text and low-resolution UI, frequent freezes and crashes, and a reported regression that broke Proton compatibility. Positive reports that the interface is Steam Deck friendly and suitable for local play do not outweigh these blocking technical problems. The overall experience meets the criteria for a broken state.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $5.00 - $10.00
  - Reasoning: Reviewers repeatedly treat $10 as the standard full price and describe it as fair or worthwhile because the base package includes many expansions. Some say $10 is the upper edge for newcomers, while sale prices are praised as excellent value. This supports a fair base-game range from about $5 on sale to $10 at full price.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: N/A
  - Story completion: N/A
  - Session length: 20.0h
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: Multiple reviews give explicit match-length ranges of roughly 10 minutes to 30 minutes, with 15-20 and 15-30 minutes reported directly, so a typical session/match is estimated at about 20 minutes. No review provides a reliable main-game completion time, story completion time, or post-completion endgame duration, so those metrics remain null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Ascension is described as easy to learn at the surface, but the most direct reports tie lasting fun and addiction to getting past early rule and UI confusion, with expansions adding unexplained mechanics. Multiplayer honor caps can also end games before late-game combos, making that mode less consistently fun.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: Understanding the core gameplay basics and how to play
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: Tutorial covers base rules but not expansion-specific mechanics; First glance can feel overwhelming until basics and UI are understood; Moderately steep learning curve with many expansions; Occasional UI bugs, awkward extra clicks, and tutorial bugs; Fixed multiplayer honor pool ends games before late-game combos; Online multiplayer limitations and bugs can interrupt play
  - Unlock drivers: Understanding the basics and how to play; Comprehensive base-game tutorial; Exploring strategies and building combos; Learning expansion mechanics through play or in-game manuals
  - Conditions: Base game is easy to learn, but expansions require additional familiarity; Tutorial explains base rules quickly and clearly; Expansion rules are left for players to work out; Multiplayer honor pool is fixed and cannot be adjusted online; Offline or hotseat mode allows a larger adjustable honor pool for longer practice; Bugs and UI quirks can affect play, especially in multiplayer
- Player Archetypes:
  - Competitive Deckbuilding Veteran (buy)
    - Motivation: Mastering a deep competitive deckbuilder and proving skill through optimized play and difficult goals.
    - Playstyle: Plays extensively online and in physical/digital versions, follows competitive communities, mixes expansions, and pursues challenging achievements.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: fan of Ascension
    - Reference games: Magic: The Gathering
  - Solo Convenience Deckbuilder (buy)
    - Motivation: Relaxing, low-friction solo deckbuilding that fits around work and short breaks.
    - Playstyle: Plays solo against AI, often with selected expansions, and values automatic scoring, no shuffling, and quick digital sessions.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Newcomer Deckbuilding Learner (buy)
    - Motivation: Learning deckbuilding fundamentals cheaply through a simple core set and guided experimentation.
    - Playstyle: Starts with the free/core game or base plus first expansion, plays against AI, reads cards carefully, and uses achievements to discover combos.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: new players; beginner
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Social Multiplayer Friend-Group Player (buy)
    - Motivation: Sharing longer, combo-heavy matches with friends and enjoying social competition.
    - Playstyle: Uses hotseat or asynchronous online play with friends, mixes human and AI opponents, and wants adjustable honor pools for longer games.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Excellent deckbuilding gameplay (weight 0.56): Reviewers consistently praise the deckbuilding mechanics as fun, addictive, and among the best in the genre. Many consider it a top-tier deckbuilder with solid design and replayability.
- Many expansions included (weight 0.37): The base game includes a large number of expansions by default, offering great value and variety. Players appreciate the ability to mix and match expansions for different experiences.
- Fun offline AI opponents (weight 0.35): The AI opponent is enjoyable and provides a solid single-player experience. It's a good substitute when human players are unavailable and offers different difficulty levels.
- High replayability from expansions (weight 0.29): Expansions significantly enhance replayability, providing near-infinite combinations and keeping the game fresh. Each expansion adds new mechanics and strategies that extend the game's lifespan.
- Generally fun and well-made (weight 0.22): Overall, the game is described as enjoyable, fun, and well-crafted. Players find it a blast to play and appreciate its quality.
- Great digital board game adaptation (weight 0.19): Reviewers highly praise the digital adaptation, considering it one of the best board game conversions. It faithfully captures the tabletop experience and even improves on it in some ways.
- Easy to learn and accessible (weight 0.19): The game is easy to pick up and learn, making it accessible to new players. The simple rules belie a depth that keeps experienced players engaged.
- Beautiful card art (weight 0.17): The card art and graphics are frequently highlighted as excellent, enhancing the overall experience. Many find the artwork alone makes the game worth playing.

Common complaints:
- No honor pool customization online (weight 0.3): Players cannot adjust the honor pool size in online multiplayer despite repeated community requests, limiting game customization.
- Games end too quickly (weight 0.15): Many players feel matches conclude prematurely, often just as decks begin to synergize, due to the limited honor pool.
- AI cheating or too easy (weight 0.12): Some players perceive the AI as cheating, while others find it too easy even at maximum difficulty, indicating inconsistent AI balance.
- Honor pool capped in multiplayer (weight 0.11): The number of honor points is fixed at 60 for 2 players, 90 for 3, and 120 for 4, which many find too restrictive and fun-limiting.
- Poor matchmaking (weight 0.11): Finding online matches is difficult due to a small player base and an ineffective matchmaking system.
- Expansion compatibility issues (weight 0.1): Playing with all expansions active creates balance problems and dilutes the deck, reducing synergy and enjoyment.
- Slow AI turns (weight 0.1): The AI takes excessively long to think, with turns sometimes lasting 5 to 15 minutes, causing frustration and lag.
- UI needs improvement (weight 0.09): The user interface is often described as rough, clunky, and unintuitive, detracting from the overall experience.
- General bugginess (weight 0.07): The game suffers from various bugs and glitches that affect stability and gameplay.
- Lacks player interaction (weight 0.06): The game provides insufficient opportunities for player interaction, making multiplayer feel less engaging.
- Tutorial buggy (weight 0.04): The tutorial is glitched and cannot be completed, which impedes new players from learning the game.
- Scores not shown during match (weight 0.04): Total scores for the player and opponent are hidden during matches, leaving players unsure of their standing.
- No undo option (weight 0.04): There is no way to undo a choice, so misclicks cannot be corrected, which is frustrating.
- No remote play together (weight 0.04): The game lacks support for remote play together, limiting multiplayer options for friends.
- Uncertain future expansions (weight 0.04): Players are unsure if further expansions will be released digitally, as development seems stagnant.
- DLC mismatch across platforms (weight 0.04): Purchased DLC on Steam does not appear on Android even with the same account, causing annoyance.

Gameplay feedback:
- Core deck-building gameplay (weight 0.65): The game is fundamentally a deck-building game where players start with a weak deck and acquire stronger cards to thin and improve it, often with combo and synergy mechanics.
- Online multiplayer supported (weight 0.44): Players can engage in online multiplayer matches, including matchmaking, playing with friends, and cross-platform play.
- Numerous expansions included (weight 0.28): The game includes many expansion sets (over 13) that introduce new cards, mechanics, and strategies, significantly enhancing replayability.
- AI opponents with difficulty (weight 0.22): AI opponents are available for solo play, with adjustable difficulty levels including higher difficulties for experienced players.
- Card game with fantasy theme (weight 0.19): The game is a card game with fantasy-themed illustrations, combat, and varied card effects that interact to create dynamic sessions.
- Honor pool determines game end (weight 0.18): The game uses an honor pool as a timer; when the pool is exhausted and all players have had equal turns, the player with the most honor wins.
- Digital board game adaptation (weight 0.17): It is a digital adaptation of a physical board or card game, bringing the tabletop experience to PC with expansions and online play.
- Expansion mixing and matching (weight 0.15): Expansions can be easily mixed and matched in different combinations, allowing players to customize their experience and create varied gameplay.
- Supports 2-4 players (weight 0.14): The game supports multiplayer for 2 to 4 players, including team play and hotseat modes.
- Honor pool in multiplayer (weight 0.14): Multiplayer mode uses an honor pool, which is capped (e.g., fixed at 60), affecting game length and strategy.
- Solo play against AI (weight 0.13): Solo play is available offline against AI opponents with multiple difficulty settings, providing a single-player experience.
- In-game tutorial available (weight 0.07): A tutorial is included to help new players learn the game's mechanics and start playing quickly.
- Play online or against AI (weight 0.07): Players can choose to play against real opponents online or against AI bots, offering flexibility in matchmaking.
- Similar to Dominion (weight 0.07): The game is often compared to Dominion, sharing deck-building and drafting mechanics, and is part of the same genre.

Performance notes:
- Frequent crashes and instability (weight 0.16): Many players experience frequent crashes, freezes, and general instability during gameplay, sometimes without warning. This affects both short and long sessions and can make the game unplayable for some.
- Runs well on some systems (weight 0.09): Despite issues, some players report the game runs well on Steam, cheap laptops, and M1 MacBooks without problems. Others note improvements over previous versions.
- Online connectivity issues (weight 0.06): Players report that online multiplayer does not work, with inability to connect to servers and servers being down multiple times. This prevents access to online features.
- Poor performance with many cards (weight 0.06): The game suffers from poor optimization, causing lag, unresponsiveness, and memory leaks when many cards are rendered, including off-screen cards. This leads to slowdowns and an unplayable experience in complex game states.
- Crashes in large games (weight 0.05): Specifically, the game crashes when a turn becomes extremely large or in large offline games, often without warning. This limits playability in extended sessions.
- Freezes requiring restart (weight 0.04): Both the PC and mobile versions occasionally freeze before a game starts or during play, requiring a full restart. This disrupts the gaming experience.
- Proton compatibility broken (weight 0.03): After the latest update, the game no longer runs when using any Proton version, affecting Linux/Steam Deck users.
- Tutorial freezes on slow speed (weight 0.02): The tutorial freezes when the game speed is set to slow, preventing new players from completing it.
- Unplayable on advertised requirements (weight 0.02): Some players find the game unplayable on hardware that meets the advertised system requirements, indicating possible optimization or compatibility issues.
- Lag during offline play (weight 0.02): Players experience lag even when playing offline, which can affect gameplay smoothness.
- Long animations and calculations (weight 0.02): When players combo off, animations and calculations take an unreasonably long time, slowing down the game.
- Saved games fail to load (weight 0.02): Some saved games won't load or freeze once loaded after long games, leading to lost progress.
- Initial port had bugs (weight 0.02): The initial port of the game had frequent bugs and glitches, though some may have been addressed in updates.
- Needs high-end PC (weight 0.02): Some players feel the game requires a gaming PC with more resources to run smoothly, suggesting high system demands.

Recommendations:
- Recommended for deckbuilder fans (weight 0.29): Many reviewers say the game is a must-play for anyone who enjoys deck-building games, with some calling it the best deckbuilder ever.
- Appeals to card game fans (weight 0.21): Reviewers recommend the game to anyone who likes card games, including fans of Dominion, Hearthstone, and Magic: The Gathering.
- Buggy and unplayable (weight 0.13): Several reviewers report that the game is so buggy it is unplayable and advise against purchasing it in its current state.
- Good value for money (weight 0.12): Many find the game worth the price and consider it a good investment, especially when purchased on sale.
- Great with friends (weight 0.08): Players recommend the game for playing with friends, noting that it is most enjoyable in a group setting.
- Worth buying expansions (weight 0.08): Reviewers agree that the expansions are well worth buying and highly recommend them for those who enjoy the base game.
- Good for solo players (weight 0.07): The game is recommended for solo play against AI, but some caution against buying if you plan to play alone.
- Online multiplayer disappointing (weight 0.07): Online multiplayer with friends on PC was found disappointing and not recommended as-is, especially for those seeking strategic human opponents.
- Substitute for physical game (weight 0.07): It is recommended as a cheap alternative for those who want a digital version of the physical card game.
- Generally highly recommended (weight 0.05): A few reviewers give strong positive recommendations without specific reasons, expressing high overall satisfaction.
- Suitable for all skill levels (weight 0.04): The game is recommended for both beginner and advanced players, making it accessible to a wide audience.
- Limit expansions in play (weight 0.04): Reviewers suggest not playing with more than three expansions at once to maintain game balance and enjoyment.
- Worth a try (weight 0.04): Some reviewers simply encourage others to give the game a try, indicating general satisfaction.

Other player notes:
- Includes numerous expansions (weight 0.63): The game comes with a large number of expansions, often over 10, included in the base package. This adds significant variety and replayability.
- Digital adaptation of board game (weight 0.23): This is a digital version of a physical board game, removing setup and cleanup. It is based on a tabletop deckbuilding game.
- Available on PC and mobile (weight 0.19): The game is cross-platform, available on PC, mobile, and tablet. The mobile version is sometimes more expensive but convenient.
- No Chinese language support (weight 0.18): Multiple reviews note the lack of Chinese localization. Some mention English is easy to understand, but others see it as a drawback.
- DLC available (weight 0.16): The game has DLC content, including additional expansions and options. Some DLC packs are paid, while others are included for free.
- Light alternative to Magic (weight 0.13): Reviewers compare it to Magic: The Gathering as a less complex, beginner-friendly, and less expensive alternative.
- Free mobile version available (weight 0.1): A free mobile version exists, often with limited expansions, serving as a trial. The phone base game is completely free.
- Expansions provided for free (weight 0.08): Many expansions are included for free, which other companies might charge for as DLC. Some paid expansions also exist.
- Cheaper than physical version (weight 0.07): The digital version is much cheaper than buying the physical game and expansions. It offers all expansions for a lower price.
- AI opponents available (weight 0.05): The game includes AI opponents for solo play, supporting up to four AI opponents. However, there is no dedicated solo mode.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.21): Players are frustrated by the lack of customizable honor pool in multiplayer, causing games to end prematurely before decks can fully develop. This is compounded by technical issues such as slow AI turns, frequent crashes, and poor online connectivity. The absence of undo options and language support further aggravates the experience.
- Disappointment (weight 0.13): Disappointment stems from the digital adaptation failing to meet the high expectations set by the physical game, with a fixed honor pool leading to shorter, less satisfying matches. Missing features like solo mode, modding freedom, and incomplete expansion content also contribute. Persistent technical problems and unaddressed community requests deepen the letdown.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.1): Players derive enjoyment from the simple yet engaging deck-building mechanics, especially in offline or solo modes against competent AI. The game's accessibility, fast-paced gameplay, and satisfying combos provide a fun experience. The digital version's convenience and expansions add to the overall enjoyment.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.09): Satisfaction comes from the game's strategic depth, high replayability, and the value offered by numerous expansions at a reasonable price. The digital implementation is well-executed, with smooth gameplay and meaningful choices. Many players appreciate the fair one-time purchase model and the game's longevity.
- Appreciation (weight 0.05): Appreciation is driven by the game's easy-to-learn nature, beautiful card art, and the developers' continued support with free expansions and updates. The digital version automates tedious calculations and enhances playability. The depth of strategy and the community are also highly valued.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.04): Enthusiasm is fueled by the game's addictive and fun gameplay, especially when mixing expansions and playing against AI. The strategic complexity and variety of card interactions keep players excited. The active online community and tournaments further boost enthusiasm.
- Fun (weight 0.03): Fun arises from the game's strategic decision-making, unique mechanics, and the joy of pulling off extreme combos. Quick deck-building duels with friends and the game's replayability make it consistently entertaining. The simple rules combined with complex choices create a fun experience.
- Annoyance (weight 0.03): Annoyance is caused by the cumbersome multiplayer system requiring third-party accounts, the inability to customize honor pools, and unbalanced card levels. Long turn animations, RNG feeling rigged, and microtransactions add to the irritation. The lack of cross-platform DLC compatibility also frustrates players.
- Excitement (weight 0.03): Excitement is generated by the thrill of discovering and executing combos, the variety of builds, and the accessible yet addictive gameplay. The game's portability and the prospect of playing with more people add to the excitement. Pulling off intricate synergies feels rewarding and keeps players engaged.
- Love (weight 0.03): Love for the game is rooted in its long-standing appeal, simple to learn but complex to master mechanics, and the joy of playing with all expansions. The art style, music, and animations create a comforting atmosphere. Many players have formed lasting attachments to the game over years.
- Admiration (weight 0.02): Admiration stems from considering the game one of the best deck-building adaptations, with brilliant design and fantastic artwork. The game's elegance, longevity, and fair monetization model earn high praise. It is often cited as a favorite board game and a standout in the genre.
- Confusion (weight 0.02): Confusion arises from unclear UI elements, such as deck abbreviations and difficulty finding how to switch to AI players. The game's complexity and lack of clear instructions for certain actions, especially with multiple expansions, leave players puzzled. The hard honor cap is also seen as a puzzling design decision.
- Addiction (weight 0.02): Addiction is driven by the fast, satisfying deck-building gameplay and the desire to play just one more match. The engaging mechanics and the pull of building powerful decks keep players coming back. The game's ability to make time fly is frequently mentioned.
- Relaxation (weight 0.01): Relaxation comes from the low-pressure, casual deck-building experience, often enhanced by calming music. Playing at one's own pace, especially in solo or pass-and-play modes, provides a chill and enjoyable way to unwind. The game's simplicity and lack of conflict contribute to a relaxing atmosphere.
- Anger (weight 0.01): Anger is sparked by the game being unplayable on advertised system requirements, honor pool restrictions in online games, and developers ignoring repeated requests. The shutdown of mods and refusal to implement basic functions despite years of feedback also infuriate players. Poor performance and lack of communication exacerbate the anger.
- Joy (weight 0.01): Joy is experienced through playing the game with friends or loved ones, especially in pass-and-play mode. The fast, tactical, and thematic gameplay brings delight, and the continued updates to the old board game add to the happiness. The social aspect and shared fun are central to this joy.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Amusement is found in the humorous situations created by broken combos, ridiculous card interactions, and AI opponents named after friends. The Rally mechanic and the ability to pull off absurd turns provide comedic relief. The game's unpredictable nature often leads to funny moments.
- Dissatisfaction (weight 0.01): Dissatisfaction is caused by limited strategic depth, low player interaction, and the inability to customize the honor pool, leading to short and unsatisfying multiplayer games. The default honor pool makes matches end abruptly, leaving players wanting more. The lack of customization options diminishes the overall experience.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.01): Nostalgia is evoked by the art direction reminiscent of the 1990s internet, memories of playing the physical version years ago, and the missing plastic honor crystals from in-person play. The game brings back fond memories of introducing others to the board game. The digital version's aesthetic contributes to this sentimental feeling.
- Relief (weight 0.01): Relief is felt when the game turns out to be easy to pick up despite being English-only, and when bugs and lag are fixed, making the game work smoothly. It serves as a refreshing change after playing other digital card games like Hearthstone. The resolution of technical issues brings a sense of relief.}