What is it?
Climbing games seem to be all the rage with titles such as Jusant, Surmount and Peak making the rounds. Joining these games is Cairn, which is more hardcore about its climbing than most other titles. You play as a woman called Aava who is determined to reach the top of Mount Kami, something that no one has done before. Most of time you will spend on the mountain walls climbing, controlling one limb at a time to find the best grip and path upwards; all in a third person view. It is a game with few interactions with other characters (though they do exist). The game is made by The Game Bakers, the studio behind the action game Furi and the romantic space adventure Haven, and yet again they have made a game that is completely different from their previous titles.
Is it player-friendly?
There are assist options, including infinite pitons and turning off hunger – meaning you can still lose grip and fall, but you don’t have to worry about food and gear – and a handy rewind function that is activated when you fall. There are also a few different choices when it comes to controlling Aava and particularly her limbs, as well as visual aids. The game is still very difficult even when using these assist options.
Is it any good?
The game is technically excellent with great cel-chaded graphics and sound. Cairn is a game about perseverance and determination, and here Aava’s journey mirrors the player’s. If you don’t like struggling and if you lack patience, this game is not for you. Even using the assist options the game is very much a challenge. If you accept this challenge, however, the game will offer a unique combination of zen-like relaxation and tense and gritty climbing sessions.
Peter Öberg
A review copy was provided.