Ashes Ascendancy
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- Designer Nick Conley
- Publisher Plaid Hat Games
- Illustration Ade Surya , Gunship Revolution , Polar Engine , Sonderflex Studio
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
You play as a Phoenixborn in the world of Argaia, facing another player or cooperative/solo foes. The game mixes Deck Construction, Closed Drafting and Hand Management with Dice Rolling and Die Icon Resolution to resolve effects. Ascendancy is fully compatible with Ashes Reborn and introduces two new magic types plus new enemy types for solo and co-op battles.
Who Is This Game For?
Aimed at experienced players and fans of two-player fighting games; minimum age 14 and a playtime of about 60 minutes (game-night length). Familiarity with deckbuilding and hand management helps, while newcomers can learn via the solo/coop options.
How It Works
Core play uses Deck Construction and Closed Drafting: players build or modify decks, draft cards and manage their hand to perform actions. Dice Rolling with Die Icon Resolution adds randomness and tactical decisions, Interrupts allow reactive plays, and Variable Player Powers give each Phoenixborn unique abilities.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Nick Conley, Ashes Ascendancy is a new entry point in the Ashes series and fully compatible with Ashes Reborn. The combination of deckbuilding, closed drafting and icon-based dice resolution shapes varied tactical matches. The game is presented as expandable and ties into the existing Ashes setting.
Pro
- Compatible with Ashes Reborn — expands card pool options
- Blend of Deck Construction, Closed Drafting and Hand Management for tactical depth
- Includes solo and co-op battles in addition to competitive duels
Contra
- Only 1–2 players — not suited for larger groups
- Leans toward experienced players familiar with deckbuilding
- Dice Rolling can introduce variance in outcomes
Setting & atmosphere
Fantasy setting of Argaia: you are a Phoenixborn, a demi-god protector using magic and resources to defeat opponents. The game adds two new magic types to the established world.
Tips for beginners
Start by learning basic deck synergies and the Variable Player Powers; use solo/coop modes to get comfortable with mechanics.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Yes. players.min is 1 and the description explicitly mentions solo and co-op battles.
How long does a game really take?
Duration is listed as 60 minutes, which corresponds to a game-night length; setup and learning can add time.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with Deck Construction and Hand Management is useful; the game targets more experienced players.
How does this compare to similar games?
Ashes Ascendancy pairs Deck Construction with Closed Drafting and Die Icon Resolution and remains compatible with Ashes Reborn, extending the series' card options.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 14 and kennerspiel-level mechanics, it's less suited for younger family players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of Deck Construction, Closed Drafting and Die Icon Resolution via dice defines the game's character.
Fazit
Recommended for players who enjoy tactical two-player card duels with deckbuilding and dice-driven effects. Not ideal for those seeking very simple family games or avoiding mechanic complexity.
Ashes Ascendancy at your next game night?
Add Ashes Ascendancy to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Ashes Ascendancy to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
