I did 10 run's with 7 assends, 1 called, 2 deaths on the new v2.3.0 SPD.
I use the Huntress as I prefer ranged fighting.
My last run was the worst though as I didn't get a Tier 4+ weapon until I bought one on level 20; food was scarce; and I didn't find a Tier 4+ armor until level 15. A +3 Ring of Arcana, projecting Great Shield, Bow with lightning enhancement, armor of Thorns, and several Bland Fruit with green seeds are what saved me in the lower levels. Defeated Yog but with no health or food remaining and a far more difficult assent, I called it a day.
The random aspect of the game absolutely plays a part.