In a year full of AAA releases, some standout indie titles remain to be found. One of them will be available to play on day one via Xbox Game Pass.

Xbox Game Pass has a treat in store for gamers this Halloween. Members will be able to play an exciting new indie game on the first day of launch, Tuesday, 31 October. The game Jusant has an unusual prequel. At its heart, the protagonist is about to climb a huge mountain. The developer of Don’t Nod promises a calming, meditative experience. The player can navigate this huge rock formation safely using various tools and paths. While climbing, players can enjoy a peaceful and atmospheric soundtrack while viewing the mountain’s varied biomes.

Jusant is the latest example of how Xbox Game Pass has been providing subscribers with various new titles from day one.

Jusant could prove to be another massive success for Xbox Game Pass

Xbox Game Pass had a somewhat mixed year until September. And a few weak months have put a bit of a damper on its momentum. The release of Starfield, supported by other releases such as Lies of P and Payday 3, significantly improved the strength of the subscription service’s offering. This has gone some way to dispelling doubts about the quality of the service’s library. Jusant immediately caught our attention when we saw it at the Xbox launch in June, thanks to its stunning art style and atmosphere. It’s a change that will undoubtedly be welcomed by gamers looking for something different.

Jusant is described as an action-puzzle crawler. While none of these elements are new in themselves, they combine here in what seems to be a rather unique concept. Huge PlayStation titles such as Uncharted 4 and the Horizon franchise allow players to deftly free-climb dangerous terrain as part of the proper traversal mechanics, but to make climbing the central aspect of the experience is something rarely seen before.

While high-octane action games are currently in high demand, no doubt playing at such a pace can cause some players to experience a degree of burnout.

Jusant is perhaps the perfect antidote. It allows players to take their foot off the pedal. They can relax a little, as they don’t have to shoot bad guys or defeat evil, but can fully immerse themselves in the environment.

Despite the change of pace, the game should provide plenty of challenges in various modes. The various tools to use while climbing, the stamina meter to keep an eye on and the numerous routes to unlock provide players with enough incentive to explore the mountain. After Jusant joins the platform on the last day of the month, Xbox Game Pass will continue its strong finish to the year with more key releases in November. Among them are Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name and Persona 5 Tactica.

Source: TrueAchievements