The PlayStation Plus essential tier games for July include two titles within widely popular genres–Blizzard's ARPG Diablo 4, and The King of Fighters 15 from KOF Studio . The third, though, Jusant, is more of an outlier. Jusant is by developer Don't Nod, the studio behind narrative-focused games with cozier vibes like Lost Records: Bloom & Rage, Tell Me Why, and Life is Strange. First released in 2023, Jusant showcases Don't Nod's range and creativity, and is something of a hidden gem.

While it resides in a comparatively more niche gaming space than the above and other powerhouse ones like open-world RPGs or high-octane shooters, Jusant is a well-crafted title unto its own that nails down its vision in a satisfying way. Cozy games fans looking for a laid-back time especially will likely enjoy what it has to offer. And Jusant being added to PS Plus now doubles as a perfect summer experience as well as a great choice to fill out the usually slim pickings of games like it on PS+ essential.

Jusant originally launched as a day-one Xbox Game Pass title.

10-Best-Cozy-Games-On-PlayStation-Plus
10 Best Cozy Games On PlayStation Plus

There's a vast library of games for players to enjoy on PlayStation Plus, and here are the best cozy games to settle into.

Jusant on PS Plus for July Bolsters the Service's Often-Overlooked Cozy Gaming Selections

PlayStation Plus Essential's Selection of Cozy Games Has Traditionally Been a Little Thin

While the cozy genre has seen an increase in popularity in the last couple of years, particularly within the indie sphere, it's still not as well represented within the PS Plus catalog overall, particularly on the essential track. Certainly, players have been able to check out some excellent titles, but by and large there just haven't been as many. This is understandable in the sense that the genre isn't quite as widespread or established as some older and more high-profile ones.

The service has also previously offered a few notable adjacent ones, like Stray, which was available in 2022 for PS Plus Premium and Extra, and Sable, which was added in late 2023. But again, these cases have often been few and far between. Jusant being included in the latest lineup, though, is a great sign that the cozy area is still being considered, and is one of the best recent titles to scratch that itch.

Jusant Helps Round Out PS Plus' Cozy Catalog With its Relaxing Summer Vibes

Jusant sees players step into the shoes of a nameless and silent young protagonist generally dubbed The Climber, accompanied by a strange semi-magical creature composed mostly of water named Ballast. In a surreal setting, The Cimber sets out to ascend The Tower and explore the mystery of what happened to it and its population in the wake of a natural disaster. The title itself is a reference to this event, as "jusant" is French for the receding tide. Lacking dialogue entirely, Jusant's story is told through its environment and the scattered relics and notes that can be found throughout the abandoned settlements that dot The Tower.

Mechanically, fans must manage the proper placement of pitons to navigate The Tower and its surrounding cliffsides, while keeping an eye on their stamina and resting when needed. There are also various puzzles to be solved on each level of The Tower, and Ballast will help reveal clues to provide the next path for The Climber. Jusant recreates the thrill of strenuous climbing through its outstanding integration of controller feedback. And though the challenge never ramps up too far, Jusant ensures that it doesn't become stale either, adding in complexity and asking players to make use of all available tools and their careful observation of the levels.

Along with the narrative breadcrumbs to piece together, the reward for continuing on are Jusant's breathtaking sights as The Climber advances ever higher. Combining its vibrant feel and colorful visuals with a soothing soundtrack, Jusant's parts all add up to a wonderfully meditative and engaging experience, making it a welcome inclusion on PS Plus essential for cozy game enthusiasts, and a great fit for soaking in summer vibes.

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Jusant Tag Page Cover Art
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Puzzle
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Top Critic Avg: 84 /100 Critics Rec: 91%
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Released
October 30, 2023
ESRB
t
Developer(s)
DON'T NOD
Publisher(s)
DON'T NOD
Engine
Unreal Engine 5, Unreal Engine 4
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WHERE TO PLAY

DIGITAL
PHYSICAL
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Genre(s)
Puzzle