The Ascent is so promising, but the game play is so boring. I loved the look of the game, especially the varying look of the arcology's levels. The alien races have fun designs as enemies and allies, even if they fall into stereotypical roles of little dudes and big bruisers. My main issue is the RPG and combat mechanics. My build was based around using a giant laser, exploding mechanical spiders, and an auto-aiming gun. In the guides I looked at, it was described as the "easy" build. To me, the game was not easy and often bordered on tedious and frustrating. The boss battles in particular didn't offer much in the way of strategy, rather relying on running away while waiting for powers to recharge. The basic enemies were either just cannon fodder or incredibly difficult. I liked the game, but I can only imagine the frustration of someone not playing with a guide who is trying to create their own build. Just play it on easy, I wish I had done the same.