This is the review for the Windows PC version of the 3D, digital, turn based, strategy game Space Hulk: Ascension by developer Full Control.
Space Hulk: Ascension Edition is a completely new experience that takes the game to a whole new level. With reworked mechanics and a host of new features, including RPG progression mechanics, new Genestealer variations, new rules, and missions structure, Space Hulk: Ascension Edition has 10 x the content of the original game, with a playtime of 50-100 hours.
Graphics
The graphics in Space Hulk: Ascension Edition are great. Textures are smooth and lifelike, with movement of characters being fluid. The colors can get a little dark at times, but this also contributes to the dark overtones to the game. Players can easily adjust the level of the graphics from low to insane to meet the limits of their computer. However the settings that the game takes place in feel somewhat bland and banal due to the familiar small hallways and gates that this game is full of. Even though the makeup of the graphics were intricate, the general bland feeling of them made us give the graphics a score of a 4 / 5.
Sound
The sound throughout the game is good, with atmospheric background music being played throughout the game. Weapons all have unique sounds when fired or attacked with, and each movement from players or enemies has unique sounds as well. The audio is not anything to drool over, but the developers did a good job implementing appropriate noises for each action. We gave the sound a 4 / 5.
Gameplay
The gameplay of Space Hulk: Ascension Edition is what will have some people praising this game and others turning away from it. Players can start out with the tutorial, which is recommended due to the complex nature of this game. We found that we were trying to remember how to play the game a lot more than actually playing it due to the tremendous amount of customization and actions available. This is an example of something that might draw in more hardcore players but leave casual players feeling a little confused or disgruntled. The game features three campaign modes, each with different types of missions such as making it to a certain area or killing a certain amount of enemies. This can have an almost repetitive feeling to it, sometimes leaving players bored or uninterested with continuing. One cool feature is the ability to transfer from a top down view to a first person view. This allows for an experience suitable to what the player desires, since some prefer first person while others prefer top-down. Overall we gave the gameplay a 3.5 / 5.
Controls
The controls are pretty straight forward. Players simply use a mouse to place units, and then click units to decide which actions they should take. There is no rush since this is a turn based game, meaning players can strategize and take their time to figure out which moves they will make rather than rushing. We gave the controls a 5 / 5.
Overall
Space Hulk: Ascension Edition is a game that appeals to some players due to its high levels of customization, but turns others away due to its somewhat repetitive/generic missions and settings. However features such as the ability to transfer from top down to first person view add to the fun dynamic of the game. We decided to give the game a final score of 3.5 / 5. Tell us what you thought of the game if you played it in the comments section below.
3.5 / 5
Space Hulk: Ascension Edition is available now for PC on Windows, Mac and Linux on Steam. You can order it now here and get a 10% discount ($26.99). If you own the original Space Hulk, you will receive an additional 15% discount off the RRP: a total discount of 25%.
Related: Space Hulk: Ascension New Biomorphs Mini Video
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