Review: Jusant
The “wholesome games” subgenre has quickly become an overcrowded one with plenty of indie developers vying to create the next cozy hit game.
It can be annoying to see the trend being done to death, but it does illustrate that there is a genuine desire for non-violent games that calm you instead of stressing you out. Jusant is another one of those games, and it’s a title you shouldn’t ignore. I’d previously played the demo and was mildly impressed. After playing the full game, my opinion has only grown more positive, and I’m in love with Don’t Nod’s little experiment.
Jusant (PC [reviewed], PS5, Xbox Series X|S)
Developer: Don’t Nod
Publisher: Don’t Nod
Released: October 31, 2023
MSRP: $24.99
“Jusant” is a French word used in the maritime world, and it refers to ebbing tides. It’s a fitting name for Don’t Nod’s game, as it has you climbing a tall tower. As you ascend, you catch a greater glimpse of a sprawling ocean reaching toward the horizon. The name also works on a metaphorical level because your ascent has you uncovering the secrets of a past civilization, like an ocean receding to reveal the seabed beneath.
Don’t let the name fool you into thinking you’re in for a pretentious experience. Jusant is nothing like that. The game is exceedingly simple, and it strips you of everything but the essentials. You have your rope, your pitons, and your backpack, which is inhabited by a blob of water you encounter after an hour or two of play. The little blue guy is adorable, and he helps you out by causing flowers to bloom or fireflies to carry you.
As previously stated, you have a massive tower to conquer. Though you can play with a keyboard and mouse, playing with a controller makes for a far more immersive experience. You
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