Highlights
Xbox Game Pass is having a strong run with its lineup, including highly anticipated games like Starfield and Jusant.
Jusant, created by Don't Nod, impresses viewers with its stunning graphics and atmospheric trailer, reminiscent of influential games such as Ico and Shadow of the Colossus.
This game revolves around ascending a massive tower through platforming, making use of climbing mechanics and captivating environmental storytelling. It is anticipated to be a notable achievement for Don't Nod.
Xbox Game Pass has had a mixed year in 2023, but the last few months have turned things around. Ending the summer with exciting releases like Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Sea of Stars, and now with the highly anticipated Starfield, Lies of P, Party Animals, and Payday 3, Xbox Game Pass has been on a roll. And the good news continues as the October 2023 line-up is about to be released, featuring the vibrant and captivating Jusant.
Jusant, developed by Don't Nod, the studio behind Life is Strange, made a memorable debut at Xbox's June Showcase this year. Its stunning visuals and atmospheric trailer instantly caught attention. While it will also be available on PS5, Xbox and PC players are in for a treat as Jusant will be added to Xbox Game Pass on October 31.
The Gameplay Features of Xbox Game Pass' Jusant
Inspired by influential titles like Ico and Shadow of the Colossus, Jusant puts players in the role of a lone wanderer on a mission to climb a towering structure. Unlike traditional narrative-driven games, Jusant relies on environmental storytelling to develop its plot.
In Jusant, players will navigate the colossal tower, utilizing climbing mechanics similar to games like Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom or Immortals: Fenyx Rising. They must carefully manage their stamina meter while traversing the tower. However, Jusant takes platforming to a new level by requiring players to manually attach their character's hands to climbable areas by holding the trigger on their controller.
As players ascend the tower, they will encounter diverse biomes and obstacles made up of relics from the ancient world, such as windmills protruding from cliff faces.
Jusant Could be a Return to Form for Don't Nod
However, players will not have to embark on their journey alone. Shortly after entering Jusant, they will encounter a water being called Ballast. According to reports, Ballast will provide assistance to players in various ways throughout their adventure. This includes offering hints about which direction to take or where to proceed next. Additionally, Ballast will utilize its natural abilities to manipulate the environment, creating new pathways for the player to explore.
Don't Nod's video game journey has been a mixed bag. Established in 2008, the studio leapt into the spotlight with their inaugural game, Remember Me. While it may not have been flawless, Remember Me effectively showcased Don't Nod's ability to create an engaging narrative-driven experience, featuring a remarkable main protagonist. However, it was their next release that truly solidified their presence in the industry. Life is Strange, released in 2015, propelled Don't Nod to new heights and continues to be revered as one of the finest examples of narrative gaming.
However, since Life is Strange, Don't Nod has not been able to replicate its success. Games like Vampyr, Tell Me Why, and Harmony: The Fall of Reverie were decent, but they lacked the same charm and quality as the original Life is Strange. Nevertheless, Jusant might just be the game to reestablish Don't Nod's reputation. Boasting a stunning art style and captivating platforming mechanics, Jusant has the potential to be one of the standout titles on Xbox Game Pass in October 2023. Mark your calendars, as Jusant is slated for release on October 31, 2023, and will be available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.