Cult Simulator 'Join Us' Shows Off Co-op Gameplay and PS5 Launch Plans at gamescom
Wolf Haus Games unveiled over 11 minutes of exclusive gameplay for its open-world co-op cult simulator 'Join Us' during IGN's gamescom coverage. The game will launch on PC, Xbox Series X/S, and PS5 in March 2027, featuring 4-player co-op in both campaign and free roam. A live-action trailer also introduced four former cult members who played the game together and reflected on their past experiences.
The gamescom showcase highlighted core systems including follower recruitment, belief system creation, and compound construction, with the developers stressing that neglected members will abandon the group. The PS5 announcement confirmed a simultaneous March 2027 launch across all three platforms, with 4-player co-op available in both campaign and free-roam modes.
The live-action companion piece featured four individuals with over 50 years of combined experience inside real cults—including an alien-waiting group and a martial arts-focused community—who played the game together and discussed their personal histories. Wolf Haus framed this as a reflective exercise, pairing the satirical gameplay with genuine perspectives from former members.
The game's use of real former cult members could prompt broader conversations about how entertainment handles traumatic experiences. Players may gain exposure to cult dynamics through satire, potentially increasing awareness of manipulation tactics. However, some audiences might find the blending of real suffering with gameplay uncomfortable. The co-op structure could also normalize discussing difficult personal histories within gaming spaces, though the game's tone will ultimately determine whether that engagement feels respectful or exploitative.