Cult simulator Join Us recruits four real ex-cult members to "experience the game’s darkly satirical take on cult life"

Join Us, an upcoming co-op game that allows players to create and manage their own cult, has enlisted four ex-cult members to playtest the game's satirical portrayal of cult life. The recruited former members - Jaga, Javier, Ariel, and Elena - collectively have over 50 years of experience in their respective cults. The four gathered to try out the game, which allows players to recruit followers, build their compounds, define their beliefs, and experience the darkly humorous aspects of cult existence.

Despite the developer, Wolf Haus, being careful not to reveal the actual cult names, they shared some insights into their former cult experiences. Ariel spoke about his belief in an impending UFO rescue that would bring him home on May 12th, 2001. Javier, on the other hand, reminisced about his time in a holistic rejuvenation center where they all contributed to the community's self-sufficiency, growing their own food.

The recruitment experiment proved to be quite varied. While one member was thrilled at the prospect of growing their own tomatoes within the game, another player boldly declared that not everyone would enjoy the experience. The interactions between the former cult members and the game's satirical take on cult life have been mixed, showcasing the complexity and unpredictability of cult dynamics. Join Us is currently scheduled for release on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S in March 2027.