Jusant: DON’T NOD Reveals its Latest Adventure Game

In the recent Xbox Games Showcase, French video game developer, DON’T NOD (known for developing the thrilling Life is Strange game series) unveiled a teaser of their latest project called Jusant. The trailer gave a glimpse of a boy with a water-made creature named Ballast in his backpack, climbing various terrains and arriving at a cliffside village.

The game appears to be a relaxing puzzle-climbing game where players explore a rich environment, discover ancient civilization secrets while conquering different obstacles with a companion, Ballast. Although the trailer didn’t reveal much about its plot, the developers hinted that players can enjoy the game at their own pace without any anxiety-inducing elements. The mysterious wreck in the trailer also suggested that there may be more to the ancient civilization than what the players see at the surface.

Screenshot via Xbox YouTube

DON’T NOD has created games that mainly focused on narratives and allow players to make choices, such as the popular Life is Strange and Tell Me Why. This time, the teaser for Jusant shows the developer’s ability to craft a minimalistic storyline that is more environmental-based. The game seems to cater to players who want to relax and take their time exploring their surroundings without the pressure of a heavy and serious plot. Meanwhile, it also raises the question of whether the developer is expanding towards a less narrative-driven approach in its game-making process.

Screenshot via Xbox YouTube

The Fall 2023 release date of Jusant has already been announced, and it will be available on Steam, Xbox, Game Pass, and PS5. However, though the teaser paints a picture of what the game might offer, the curiosity surrounding the actual gameplay mechanics and plot still lingers.