Microsoft had an interesting run going with its free-to-play games on Xbox 360, including such titles as Happy Wars and Ascend: Hand of Kul. However, the load got a little lighter today, as Ascend is no longer available for download.

Signal Studios posted about the game's removal today, stating, "Signal Studios must regretfully announced that despite our best efforts and the game's success, Microsoft has discontinued support for Ascend: Hand of Kul on the Xbox 360 and removed the game from the Xbox Live Marketplace. This surfaced to us while investigating various issues players have been experiencing over the weekend. We are deeply saddened by this decision and the impact it has on our community."

The game had supported up to 2.5 million players on Xbox Live since the time of its release.

Meanwhile, the PC version of the game, which is currently in beta over on Steam, is still up and running. "In appreciation of our fans, Signal Studios will grant all new Ascend PC players a starting bonus of souls totaling 25K which can be used to purchase gear, spells and buffs. All existing Ascend PC players will receive a 10K soul bonus just for playing," said the company.