PGC NEWS

The Warhammer 40,000 universe has seen its share of video game adaptations, with varying degrees of success. Following THQ’s demise in 2013 and the subsequent shift of the Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War series to SEGA, Space Hulk Ascension emerged as a rare triumph, successfully capturing the grim darkness of the 41st millennium. Developed by Full Control, Ascension focuses on Space Marine squads battling within the claustrophobic confines of derelict Space Hulks. The game’s challenging gameplay and faithful adaptation of the original tabletop game garnered critical acclaim. Shortly after its release, the first expansion, Space Hulk Ascension: Imperial Fists, arrived. Let’s delve into what Full Control offers in this DLC.

Fortifying the Emperor’s Will: The Imperial Fists Arrive

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As the name suggests, Space Hulk Ascension: Imperial Fists introduces the renowned Imperial Fists Chapter to the game. Known for their stoicism and mastery of fortifications, these Space Marines bring a unique tactical advantage to the perilous missions within the Space Hulks. Their inherent strength lies in their superior defense. With a +10 bonus to Melee Defence, Imperial Fists Terminators are significantly more resilient against the Genestealer hordes.

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Furthermore, their Bolters generate less heat, reducing the need for frequent reloads and conserving precious action points. This allows for more aggressive tactical maneuvers and sustained firefights. However, this resilience comes at a cost. The Imperial Fists lack Librarians, the psyker specialists of other Chapters. This absence removes potent psychic abilities from the player’s arsenal, forcing a reliance on conventional weaponry and tactical prowess.

Expanded Campaign: Shield of Retribution

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The Imperial Fists’ arrival expands Space Hulk Ascension’s campaign significantly. Imperial Fists adds 15 main missions and 20 side missions, providing a substantial increase in playtime. The highlight is the “Shield of Retribution” campaign, an Imperial Fists-centric storyline offering 10-20 hours of additional gameplay. While focused on the Imperial Fists, players can still utilize other Chapters within this campaign, allowing for diverse tactical approaches. Mission objectives vary, from securing critical locations to purging infested areas, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience.

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The expansion also introduces a new weapon for Terminator squads: the Tarantula. This heavy bolter turret, exclusive to Imperial Fists Sergeants, provides devastating firepower. With two firing modes, the Tarantula offers strategic flexibility, allowing players to set ambushes or provide supporting fire.

A Missed Opportunity for Gameplay Innovation

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Despite the substantial content addition, Space Hulk Ascension: Imperial Fists doesn’t introduce significant gameplay changes. While the Imperial Fists’ enhanced survivability might ease the difficulty somewhat, strategic errors still carry heavy consequences. The core gameplay loop remains unchanged, which might disappoint players hoping for a more innovative experience.

Conclusion

Space Hulk Ascension: Imperial Fists provides a welcome content expansion for fans of the base game. The addition of the Imperial Fists, along with new missions and the powerful Tarantula turret, offers a fresh perspective on the tactical challenges within the Space Hulks. However, the lack of significant gameplay innovations might leave some players wanting more. The DLC ultimately provides more of what the original offered, which is certainly not a bad thing for dedicated fans. For those seeking a substantial content boost and the chance to command the stalwart Imperial Fists, this expansion is a worthwhile addition.