Ascend Again

Ascend Again is a fast-paced arcade platformer where every death becomes a tool. Climb a towering structure by using the bodies left behind from past lives as platforms, collecting Karma and racing against the ever-present threat of Yama, the lord of death. Balance risk, speed, and strategic reincarnation as you build your own path upward in pursuit of a higher score.

Your performance is measured through a ranking system based on the amount of Karma you earn. Players can achieve one of five ranks: Lost Soul, Wandering Spirit, Ascendant Spirit, Enlightened One, or the highest rank, Liberated Soul. Mastering movement, efficient reincarnations, and risky Karma collection is the key to reaching the top rank.

Playtest Feedback Form: 

https://forms.gle/tvPTd39aLpVy2Hb1A

About This Project

Ascend Again was created for my Game Dev I course at DePaul University during Spring 2026. The project was built over a 10‑week development cycle, focusing on rapid prototyping, iterative design, and implementing core gameplay systems in Unity. The goal was to explore reincarnation‑based mechanics, vertical level design, and score‑driven arcade gameplay while learning foundational game development workflows.

Credits

Developer: Vance Domenz 

Design: Vance Domenz 

Programming: Vance Domenz 

Art: Vance Domenz

Music: Vance Domenz

Engine: Unity