Climbing game Cairn will have a 'free solo' mode with no rope

The article discusses the upcoming climbing game Cairn, which will feature a "Free Solo" mode that allows players to tackle the game's already challenging climbs without the use of a rope or pitons. This mode is inspired by the real-life rock climbing technique of "Free Solo" climbing, which gained mainstream attention after the release of the documentary "Free Solo." The article highlights that in a typical climbing game, players manage a rope and pitons to anchor it to the rock face, providing a safety net in case of a slip. In the Free Solo mode, however, this safety net is removed, turning each climb into a more demanding and risky endeavor. The article also notes that Cairn's climbing mechanics, where players must move each limb individually, as well as the game's management of hunger, thirst, and inventory, make it a more demanding experience compared to similar games like Jusant. The article concludes by mentioning that the Cairn demo is currently available to download on PS5 and PC, and the full game is set to be released on November 5, 2025.