The Game Bakers, the developer behind popular games like Furi and Haven, has always been known for creating unique and engaging experiences for players. Their latest project, „Cairn,“ is no exception. Described as a „survival-climber“ game, Cairn takes players on a journey up a mountain using rationed supplies and realistic animations and physics. This game is the third installment in a trilogy with the overarching theme of freedom, and it promises to be unlike any survival game players have experienced before.
In an interview with GamesRadar+, executive producer and designer Audrey Leprince, along with creative content director and designer Emeric Thoa, shed light on the origins of Cairn and how it came to be. Despite its seemingly improbable concept, Cairn was already in development before similar games were announced by other developers. The team at The Game Bakers wanted to create a game that focused on the physical and mental challenges of mountain climbing, incorporating elements of physics-based gameplay and strategic resource management.
Unlike their previous games, Furi and Haven, which had distinct gameplay mechanics, Cairn offers a completely different experience. The game requires players to carefully control their character’s movements and utilize climbing supplies like ropes and anchors to progress up the mountain. Thoa explains that the slow pace and unique climbing mechanics set Cairn apart from other games, providing players with a challenging yet rewarding experience.
Leprince emphasizes that The Game Bakers‘ signature style is to push boundaries and create games that stand out in a crowded market. With a strong emphasis on storytelling and emotional impact, the team aims to create games that resonate with players on a deeper level. Cairn, with its focus on perseverance and overcoming obstacles, embodies this philosophy and offers a gameplay experience that is both challenging and meaningful.
The mountain in Cairn serves a similar role to the bosses in Furi, but the way players engage with it is entirely different. Thoa compares the game to survival horror titles like Resident Evil, but with a climbing twist. The team drew inspiration from real-life mountaineering experiences, consulting with professional climbers like Élisabeth Revol to ensure authenticity in the game’s mechanics and challenges.
Looking ahead, The Game Bakers are fully committed to completing Cairn before considering their next project. While the future remains uncertain, the team expresses a desire to continue creating action-adventure games with a strong focus on gameplay and meaningful experiences. With Cairn set for release in 2025, fans can look forward to another innovative and immersive game from this talented development studio.
In conclusion, Cairn represents a bold new direction for The Game Bakers, showcasing their creativity and dedication to delivering unique gaming experiences. With its innovative climbing mechanics, challenging gameplay, and emotional storytelling, Cairn promises to be a standout title in the world of indie games. Fans of the studio can expect another memorable and impactful adventure when the game launches in the coming years.