JUSANT review: Scaling the Echoes of a Forgotten Civilization

Fasten your seatbelts 'cause we're about to scale the dizzying heights of "JUSANT", a game that's got the gaming world buzzing like a hive of excited bees. This title from the wizards at DON'T NOD, who previously conjured up gems like "Life is Strange", was released on October 31st, 2023, and has been making waves across the PC gaming ocean ever since. Let's break down what makes JUSANT a vertigo-inducing masterpiece.

A Mountain of Mystery

JUSANT isn't just a game; it's a love letter to those with a penchant for puzzles and a soft spot for stories told without words. Imagine a massive, mind-boggling pillar of rock - a once-thriving civilization now reduced to a desert, its secrets waiting to be unearthed.

As you play, you're not just a gamer; you're a spidery archaeologist, piecing together a story that unfolds through the environment and scattered relics. It's a silent journey, with no NPCs to guide or distract you, just you, a vast mountain, and remnants of a lost world​​.

A Climber's Delight

The core of JUSANT is climbing - a gratifying, hands-on experience that's a far cry from your typical "press X to climb" affair. You're in full control here, with each hand clinging and releasing as you navigate the rugged terrain.

This tactile gameplay keeps you engaged, your brain and fingers in cahoots to conquer the mountain. But don't worry, the game isn't a hardcore sim; it's patient and considerate, never pushing you off the deep end. The rope system is a godsend, saving you from taking a plunge when you overestimate your stamina or skills. It's all about managing your energy and being smart with your moves​​.

Environmental Storytelling at Its Finest

JUSANT's world is a character in its own right, a silent storyteller recounting the tales of lost civilizations and forgotten lives. As you climb, you'll find hints of the past - unmade beds in abandoned huts, complex pathways, and cave paintings, each piece contributing to a rich, layered narrative.

Eavesdrop on history through seashells that play echoes of a bygone era. But be warned, collectibles and artifacts can be tricky to find, demanding keen observation and exploration skills​​.

Painterly Masterpiece

Prepare to be wowed visually. JUSANT looks like it's been painted by a master artist, every frame a piece of art. The graphics evolve as you ascend, with each biome bringing its own palette and challenges. From sun-baked cliffs to bioluminescent caverns and snow-capped peaks, the variety keeps the journey fresh and fascinating.

The game's art style, reminiscent of clay models, complements its painterly aesthetic, enhancing the overall experience without overwhelming you with unnecessary indicators​​.

A Symphony of Climbing

Backing this adventure is a soundtrack that deserves its own standing ovation. From soft piano notes to synthesized choirs, the music ebbs and flows with your progress, elevating the game from a mere climbing puzzle to a meditative experience. It's a blend of sound and scenery that perfectly captures the game's essence - a journey of self-reflection and wonder​​.

A Leap Worth Taking

JUSANT represents a unique breed of game design, one that fully trusts its players to embrace its beauty and unravel its mysteries. While it's a relatively short adventure - about six hours if you take your time - it's a journey worth every second. The game does have its flaws, particularly in its approach to environmental collapse, but these are minor quibbles in an otherwise splendid game. JUSANT is more than just a game; it's an experience, a silent narrative that speaks volumes through its world. It's a game that asks you to meet it halfway, and trust me, it's a leap worth taking​​​​.

In a nutshell, JUSANT is like a silent movie set on a colossal mountain, a blend of climbing and storytelling that's as mesmerizing as it is unique. It's a game that beckons you to climb higher, both literally and metaphorically. So, if you're up for a game that's as much about the journey as the destination, JUSANT is your ticket to a memorable, vertical adventure.

This key for #Jurant was provided to us for free, however, our review is of course unbiased.