Jusant

A subtle and intriguing story encourages you to climb ever higher in this melancholy adventure.

Jusant is a wonderful, meditative puzzle adventure framed around climbing that effectively draws you into its mysterious world. With creative level designs that make the most of the vertical tower setting, the climbing mechanics are fun and intuitive, and the pacing keeps it from feeling repetitive.

Jusant is my favorite Don’t Nod title since the original Life is Strange and is one of the year’s best gems. The climbing mechanics are so smart and well-executed that I hope other games take notes. Add an inviting presentation, a pleasant soundtrack, and an alluring air of mystery and isolation reminiscent of Team Ico’s best works, and Jusant is a rewarding expedition.

Jusant's tale unravels through concrete, satisfying climbing that contrasts with ephemeral hints at the past, in a game that marries function, form and story in a most beautiful way.

A way up, in this case. Jusant is another banger in a year of endless bangers, as notable for everything it isn’t as much as what it is: a meditative, evocative odyssey up a big tower, with plenty of time to reflect and ponder deftly weaved through the experience by master storytellers who want you to feel every pore of the rock as you ascend, and every ache of the heart that its residents left behind.

Despite one or two missteps, Jusant hangs together thanks to a well-realised, unique location and, more importantly, a fun and engaging way to interact with it. The climbing at its core is wonderfully tactile and finds a balance between complexity and accessibility. The spire of rock you're ascending is an interesting place to explore, gradually shifting into new environments as you ascend. We're not totally sold on the story, and the animation and camera can be clumsy every so often, but the game remains a solid, meditative adventure throughout.

Jusant's creative take on climbing and a minimalistic approach to storytelling make it one of the boldest titles from Don't Nod so far.

Combining a gorgeous art style, intriguing setting and a surprisingly old-school yet welcome nod to platforming of the past, Jusant is a terrific adventure full of accomplished set-pieces and smart design throughout.

Jusant combines climbing mechanics with storytelling through the environment, all set in beautiful visuals and a relaxing atmosphere. As you explore colourful landscapes, each climb feels rewarding, making it a meditative journey. The lack of challenge and certain points in the story not having enough emotional depth might be a turn off for some. Overall, Jusant offers a well-rounded experience with a subtle story that will stay with you long after you’ve finished your climb.

Overall, Jusant is a wonderful experience and a climb well worth starting if you’re looking for a short but engaging adventure. Unlike many games in this genre, Jusant’s traversal of the environment feels unique. Its climbing mechanics are so engaging I had just as much fun exploring the world and taking in the experience as feeling the need to seek out collectables. This is DON’T NOD bringing their A game. Successfully conveying an emotional story by saying very little. When I finally reached the top of the mountain, I was not disappointed, and hopefully, you won’t be either.