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Ascension: Deckbuilding Game GOLDEN GEEK NOMINIERT 2011

Ascension: Deckbuilding Game

1-4
Players
30
Minutes
13+
Age
2010
Published

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What to Expect

In Ascension, players dynamically build their decks by spending Runes to acquire stronger cards. The game requires flexible strategy adjustments based on an evolving card pool. Players start with a small deck and aim to earn the most Honor Points by gaining cards and defeating monsters. The gameplay is fast-paced with hand management and open drafting elements.

Who Is This Game For?

Ascension targets hobby gamers aged 13 and up who enjoy deckbuilding and tactical decisions. With about 30 minutes playtime, it suits short game sessions and includes a solo mode. Prior experience with deckbuilding games is helpful but not mandatory.

How It Works

Each player starts with a small deck and uses hand management to spend Runes on new cards. The deck, bag, and pool building mechanics allow players to improve their decks over time. Open drafting lets everyone see and choose from the same card pool, leading to competitive and adaptive gameplay.

Deck, Bag, and Pool Building Hand Management Open Drafting

What Makes It Special

Designed by Magic: The Gathering Pro Tour champions Justin Gary, Rob Dougherty, and Brian Kibler, Ascension was nominated in 2010 for Golden Geek Best Card Game and Origins Awards Best Traditional Card Game. Its blend of fast gameplay and complex deckbuilding sets it apart in fantasy card games.

Awards

GOLDEN GEEK NOMINIERT 2011
Nominated
2010, 2011
  • 2010 Origins Awards Best Traditional Card Game — Nominated

Pro

  • Fast gameplay with about 30 minutes duration
  • Combination of deckbuilding, hand management, and open drafting
  • Includes solo mode
  • 2010 nominations for Golden Geek and Origins Awards

Contra

  • Complexity suited for hobby gamers
  • Less suitable for families with children under 13
  • Open drafting requires attention and can challenge beginners

Setting & Atmosphäre

Set in a fantasy world, players earn honor by acquiring cards and defeating monsters. The theme supports the mechanics typical for fantasy card games.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus on gradually improving your deck and watch opponents’ choices to adapt your strategy accordingly.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

Yes, Ascension includes a solo mode.

How long does a game really take?

A typical game lasts about 30 minutes, enabling quick play sessions.

What prior experience do I need?

It is aimed at hobby gamers; prior deckbuilding experience helps but is not required.

How does this compare to similar games?

Ascension combines deck, bag, and pool building with open drafting, allowing dynamic and transparent card selection.

Is this suitable for families?

Recommended for ages 13 and up, it is more suited for hobby gamers than young family players due to complexity.

What mechanic makes it special?

Its blend of deck, bag, and pool building combined with open drafting makes Ascension unique.

Fazit

Ascension is recommended for players who enjoy quick, tactical deckbuilding rounds. Its flexibility and depth appeal mostly to hobby gamers rather than casual family players.