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At first glance, Cairn might look like another “ragebait” vertical platformer, but it quickly proves to be something far deeper. Developed by The Game Bakers, the title follows Aava, a world-renowned but socially isolated climber determined to summit Mount Kami—a peak that has never been conquered. Far from being a mere test of patience, the mountain serves as a grim allegory for life’s greatest ambitions, littered with the letters of those who surrendered and the frozen remains of those who refused to turn back.
The gameplay is a revolutionary shift from traditional climbing mechanics. Cairn grants you individual control over each of Aava’s hands and feet, requiring you to manually find every hold and manage her center of gravity. You are the architect of your own ascent, forced to choose between direct, exhausting routes or safer, longer traverses. This physical struggle is compounded by survival systems—managing hunger, thirst, and limited equipment—while dynamic weather like rain and wind gusts make every movement a calculated risk.
What anchors the experience is Aava’s humanity. Her obsession is constantly challenged by the outside world via her radio; when she learns her cat is ill and needs surgery, the player must weigh the summit against personal responsibility. These narrative beats, combined with awkward encounters with fans on the slopes, transform the climb into an introspective journey about sacrifice and the bridges burned in pursuit of greatness.
Despite the high stakes, Cairn is a meditative experience. With a flexible difficulty curve and generous checkpoints, it encourages quiet reflection rather than frustration. It is a visually stunning title that emphasizes the beauty of recovery, reminding us that in both life and video games, the most important part of falling is the decision to get back up and study your mistakes
Experience the Ascent
Cairn is available now on PC (Windows) and PlayStation 5, starting at $19.99 USD. If you are ready to face the mountain and your own reflections, you can find it on the link below:
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