Cairn

 PC
Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 39 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 34 out of 39
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 39
  3. Negative: 0 out of 39
  1. 3DJuegos
    Jan 29, 2026
    Cairn is one of those gems we see less and less of these days. It’s a title that plays its hand so well that, just when you think you’ve come for a charming climbing simulator, it delivers a gut punch that makes you question what on earth you’re doing with your life. A superb game, both in its gameplay mechanics and the message it strives to convey. [Recommended]
  2. Kotaku
    Jan 29, 2026
    Climbing requires you to be aware of everything from your toes to fingertips. The game’s attempt to replicate that is an admirable one, but the gap it tries to bridge between how the human body moves and how a video game character does feels like it doesn’t quite meet in the middle. What’s left is something that rewards a level of patience I don’t think I have anymore. I’ll just keep my feet firmly planted on the ground for now. [Impressions]
  3. Polygon
    Jan 29, 2026
    This is a survival game that’s more about walking away from comfort and ease than trying to reclaim it. Cairn is hypnotic and rewarding, but it can be tough and bitter, too.
  5. The Verge
    Feb 9, 2026
    I am predisposed to like Cairn: I love long runs, and to me, there are fewer things more satisfying than the feeling of overcoming a seemingly insurmountable obstacle one step at a time. I’ve fallen out of running lately, and I’ve missed it. Cairn reminded me what’s possible when you focus just on the next thing in front of you — and of the complex feelings that come with persevering through the quest.