Important takeaways
- Xbox Series X/S now features the highly rated Metroidvania game Animal Well.
- Critics praised Animal Well for its level design, gameplay twists and art style.
Djurbrunn has been released in the shadow of Xbox, meaning one of 2024's top-rated games is now playable on Xbox Series X/S. Djurbrunndeveloped by Shared Memory, is the first game published by Bigmode, the publishing company started by popular YouTubers Dunkey and Leahbee. It launched earlier this year on PC, Switch and PS4 to widespread critical acclaim.
Djurbrunn reviews were glowing, giving the Metroidvania game an impressive 89 overall rating from critics. Critics praised the game for its level design, clever gameplay twists and striking art style. Djurbrunns incredible reception has helped it become not only one of the highest-rated new game releases of 2024, but one of the highest-rated Metroidvania games in history.

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Animal Well: How to unlock the secret message from videogamedunkey
By solving the BDTP and Wingdings puzzles, Animal Well players can unlock a secret audio message from videogamedunkey.
There is a reason why many expect Djurbrunn to be nominated for multiple awards at The Game Awards this year, and now Xbox players can see what all the fuss is about. Djurbrunn was released in the shadow of the Xbox Series X/S as part of the Xbox Partner Preview event, finally giving gamers on the platform the chance to play one of the best of the year. Xbox players can expect their Djurbrunn experience to be identical to the other versions of the game.
Animal Well is now available on Xbox
While Microsoft continues to push Xbox Game Pass as the cornerstone of its gaming strategy, Djurbrunn was not notified for the service. Some might have expected Djurbrunn to release on Xbox Game Pass as it was once a PS Plus Extra game when it debuted on PlayStation, but it looks like those interested will have to pay for it instead.
Some may assume so Djurbrunn being one day a PS Plus Extra game would keep it from Xbox Game Pass, but that's not necessarily the case. There are plenty of examples of games existing on both subscription services at the same time, and it's actually even been the case for day one releases in the past. As some may remember, Sea of stars was a Day One game for both PS Plus Extra and Xbox Game Pass back in the day, so it's unclear why Djurbrunn is not available on the service.
Regardless, Djurbrunn is certainly worth the price of admission and sets the bar high for future games from publishing label Bigmode. It's an incredible Metroidvania game and one of the best in the genre, so Xbox players shouldn't hesitate to check it out as soon as possible.