An Amazing Adventure – Critics Praise the Climbing Simulator Cairn
Today, January 29th, the climber simulator Cairn has launched. Journalists prepared their reviews of the game in advance and have already published them. It seems the creators of the amazing Furi from The Game Bakers studio can add another successful release to their track record.
At the time of writing this news, Cairn's rating on OpenCritic is 87 out of 100. According to reviewers, The Game Bakers have created a full-fledged climbing simulator where the player chooses their own route to conquer the mountain. The novelty lulls your vigilance with lush visuals and a mesmerizing soundtrack, only to punish you for a mistake – falling here is as easy as pie.
However, there are flaws that could mar the journey. First, the developers sometimes overdo the difficulty – in some places, the scarcity of save points frays the nerves. And second, there are technical rough edges – bugs and less-than-ideal performance.
Final Trailer.
Below are quotes from several reviews.
The GameSlayer — 9.5/10
Cairn is one of the most unusual and experimental platformers in recent times, and its bold idea pays off. The deep and thoughtful climbing mechanics are captivating and engaging, and the additional survival aspect adds spice to this already grueling ascent. Some may not like the methodical movement, but overall Cairn is the best version of what the game tries to be. A true climbing epic that spares no one.
Steam Deck HQ — 4.5/5
Cairn combines planning and survival, creating a unique experience I want to return to. The blend of planning and survival while climbing a treacherous mountain is well-balanced and makes the gameplay engaging and interesting until the very end. The game can be cruel and merciless, given how easy it is to fall here and how rare save points are in some places, but I found it hard to find a moment when I didn't want to try climbing the mountain again.
Although I would prefer the game to run better on Steam Deck, I still consider it playable since a high frame rate isn't required for the full experience. Regardless, I had a great time playing it in bed and readily recommend Cairn.
PlayStation Universe — 8.5/10
If you enjoy harsh climbing simulators, Cairn excellently recreates the treacherous conditions of a grand mountain conquest. It's a wonderful small game about how planning and perseverance can help achieve goals and, ultimately, the summit of Mount Kami.
TheSixthAxis — 8/10
Cairn is a unique, leisurely, and surprisingly relaxing game where you sometimes lose your grip and fall to your death. It features a touching story unfolding during the ascent to the mountain's peak, survival elements with limited resources, and realistic climbing, while enjoying the magnificent landscapes, making discoveries, and mastering mountaineering is a joy. Cairn is a unique game that stands out from all the rest.
Push Square — 7/10
Cairn is an excellent climbing simulator that puts an entire mountain at your disposal with complete freedom of movement across it. Light survival mechanics create enough pressure to push you forward, and the deliberately slow pace encourages cautious actions and careful planning. The expedition of protagonist Aava is simultaneously meditative and very dangerous – death lurks at every step. We have minor reservations about the story, and the frame rate barely reaches the level of Mount Kami, but those seeking a challenging and interesting journey will find Cairn a unique adventure.
Cairn has arrived on PC (Steam) and PlayStation 5. Russian subtitles are available.