The Ascent Gets Major Update, Hinting at Sequel and New Platforms

A Welcome Return to Veles

It’s been five years since players first descended into the grimy, neon-drenched metropolis of Veles in The Ascent. Released in 2021, Neon Giant’s ambitious twin-stick action RPG immediately captivated audiences with its breathtakingly detailed environments and visceral combat. While its narrative and character development may not have reached the same heights as its visual spectacle, the core gameplay loop of fast-paced gunplay and ultra-violence in a co-op-friendly cyberpunk world made it a standout experience. Now, publisher Krafton is bringing players back to Veles with a surprise major update, coinciding with the game's fifth anniversary, and the implications are substantial.

The upcoming update, slated for November 2026, is designed to address key player feedback, promising a "smoother, more dependable experience for solo and co-op players." Specific improvements will target co-op teleportation, the encounter system, and the reliability of save games and player progression. These enhancements are crucial for refining the game's already strong foundation, ensuring that the unique Veles experience is as seamless as possible for its millions of players.

"We are incredibly proud of what we built with The Ascent and grateful to the millions of players who have made the journey to Veles," said Arcade Berg, co-founder of Neon Giant. "We have also listened closely to feedback about where the experience can be"

What This Means for Fans

Beyond the technical improvements, Krafton’s announcement also contains a tantalizing glimpse into the future. The statement explicitly mentions "plans to expand The Ascent across new platforms, genres, and future sequels." This is the clearest indication yet that the team at Neon Giant is not only committed to polishing their debut title but also to building upon its success in significant ways. The mention of "new genres" is particularly intriguing, sparking speculation about potential spin-offs or entirely new takes on the The Ascent universe. Could we see a first-person perspective entry, or perhaps a strategy game set in the same world? The possibilities are vast, and the confirmation of future sequels suggests that the core twin-stick shooter experience will likely continue to evolve.

What's Next

While specific details about the sequel and new platform plans are still under wraps, the November 2026 update for the original The Ascent serves as a strong prelude. Players can anticipate a more robust and polished experience from the current game, while the broader hints from Krafton fuel excitement for what’s to come.