Wonder’s scale and scope in video game Jusant gave us the digital coping mechanisms we needed in ’23
Ever since the pandemic of 2020, there’s been constant discussion about “getting back to normal” or returning to “the before times”. To say it’s been a struggle would be an understatement. Various strains of COVID still exist and to some levels, even thrive. The world has adjusted and course-corrected to an extent, but there are still hardships and strife almost anywhere you look. That’s why a large portion of the population turns to books, movies, television, and video games for solace. And while each has its strengths or outlets worth investing in, one video game in 2023 provides not just an ounce of distraction and focus, but a moment of reflection, perseverance, and sheer beauty. Factors that make Don’t Nod’s Jusant one of the best experiences of the year.
First thing first, Jusant is short. It can be completed in a handful of hours, yet that shouldn’t be seen as a negative. There’s a sense of wonder and immersion that is more important than overall length. Plus, if you squint and notice some slight, kinda-sorta-maybe metroidvania-like elements pertaining to alternate paths, you can easily squeeze a few playthroughs out of it.
Since appearing on the scene nearly a decade ago, Don’t Nod Entertainment (formerly Dontnod) has gone about things differently. Their narrative and gameplay approach is often against the grain and involves thinking outside the box, which has been both a strength and a detriment in the past. While the majority of their games have scored well, a few of them (Vampyr, Twin Mirror) were forgotten quickly, compared to their work on the Life is Strange series. By comparison, Jusant strikes a chord by paring things back narratively, putting the main focus on a compelling and intriguing core gameplay element.
What makes Jusant such an interesting endeavor, is its climbing mechanic. On the Xbox Series X/S (it’s also out on PS5 and Windows) the controls are simple. Left and Right triggers correspond to left and right hands, reaching and grasping onto a hold point when triggered. X lets you anchor a pivot, B winds your rope, Y activates letters or opens repelling points, and A is to jump. Don’t Nod fine-tuned things to a point of feeling intuitive. In short order, you’re accomplishing great feats with ease.
In the world of Jusant (which means “ebb tide” or “low tide”) calamity has hit the oceans and waters of the world. Rusted and discarded boats litter the landscape. In the middle of it all is a massive rock tower, reaching high into the sky. The unnamed protagonist has wandered into this deserted world with the arduous task of climbing the massive column, along the way learning the stories of those who lived here before, possibly even following in their footsteps. They aren’t alone though, accompanied by a small blue creature, who causes plants to flourish, as well as point out the next objective.
Overall the narrative is told through different letters, corkboard messages, and correspondence from people who left their huts and rock business long ago. Some of the small stories that are gathered tell of wistful and hopeful excursions, others of the waters receding and the eventual change of life that came with it. The thing is, all these tertiary pieces are optional. Tucked off to the side to be ignored, if you wish. The same goes for altars, frescos ans various rooms off the beaten path. They’re there for a richer sense of world-building, with the feeling that if they’re missed, things will fall apart. At least in your first run-through.
The second thing that Jusant sinks into players is a sense of awe. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, Jusant turns you around and lights up your eyes again, enhanced whenever Guillaume Ferran’s gorgeous score pipes in. Throughout the roughly 4.5-hour story, you’ll visit 5 distinct biomes, with all kinds of flora and fauna that demand you to stop and appreciate their splendor.
That last bit is what makes the experience so rewarding, as simple and easy to grasp as the controls are, the game has a difficulty spike that requires focus and concentration. The kind that can be annoying when you fail, but oh so gratifying when overcome. When that sensation comes Jusant rewards you with a scene of beauty or simple reflection. A breather as you collect yourself for the next challenge to come, as you continue the ascent upwards.
To many people video games are just viewed through a narrow lens. The scapegoat of senseless atrocities it had no hand in, the more violent or chaotic side of the game world (be it esports, influencers, layoffs, or game content) is often the one that gets sensationalized in the media. At the same time, there is a corner of the gaming world that focuses on unique storytelling avenues—rich and immersive gameplay experiences where the rest of the world can wash away and become euphoric. Often leading to a sense of completion, excitement, or calm that is hard to replicate in other forms of entertainment. When it comes to 2023, one of the finest examples of that latter bit is Jusant: a unique game that may surprise and elate you, if you are willing to give it a chance.
