It is barely February, yet the conversation for 2026’s Game of the Year might already have a frontrunner. Released on January 29, Cairn has defied niche expectations to become the highest-rated standalone release of 2026 so far, securing an impressive 84 Metascore. Developed by The Game Bakers (creators of Furi and Haven), this grueling "survival climber" is more than just a test of reflexes—it is a harrowing, meditative, and physically demanding simulation of mountaineering that has captivated critics and players alike on PS5. In this Cairn PS5 review, we explore why this unforgiving ascent up Mount Kami is the essential title of early 2026.
The Climb: Physics, Patience, and Pitons
Unlike traditional platformers where climbing is a simple automated traversal mechanic, Cairn treats the ascent as the primary antagonist. The developers famously stated that the movement is driven by "maths, not animations," and you feel this with every grip. Controlling protagonist Aava requires independent limb manipulation—you must deliberately place hands and feet, managing stamina and balance in real-time. It sits somewhere between the meditative flow of Jusant and the deliberate weightiness of Death Stranding.
The mechanics are incredibly tactile on the DualSense controller. You can feel Aava’s limbs shaking through the haptic feedback when her stamina is critical. The "free-climbing" system allows you to tackle the rock face however you see fit, placing pitons to create your own checkpoints. This freedom is terrifying; a single missed hold or poor calculation can send you plummeting. Yet, the inclusion of your spider-like companion, "Climbot," provides just enough utility—retrieving anchors and offering moral support—to keep the isolation from becoming overwhelming.
Survival on Mount Kami: More Than Just Altitude
What sets Cairn apart from other PS5 exclusive game reviews is its hybrid nature. It isn’t just about going up; it’s about staying alive. The survival elements are woven seamlessly into the climb. You must manage Aava’s hunger, thirst, and body temperature against the harsh dynamic weather of Mount Kami. The wind doesn't just buffet the audio; it physically threatens to knock you off balance.
The downtime is just as engaging as the climb. Finding a ledge to set up camp initiates a series of tactile mini-games that ground you in the experience. You’ll cook meals—mixing ingredients like trout and beer for stat boosts—and, most cringingly, tend to Aava’s battered body. The finger-bandaging mechanic is a standout detail; you must individually wrap Aava’s bloodied digits to restore her grip strength, a small but powerful reminder of the toll the mountain takes. These moments of respite are crucial, offering a brief sanctuary before the next vertical nightmare.
The "Rave Cave" and Environmental Storytelling
While the mountain is desolate, it is not empty. One of the most talked-about discoveries in Cairn is the surreal "rave cave"—a hidden cavern where music still blasts as if a party just ended, despite being completely abandoned. These environmental oddities, along with abandoned fishing spots and left-behind gear, paint a haunting picture of those who attempted the climb before you.
A Story of Sacrifice and Solitude
The narrative anchors the physical struggle. Aava is not a typical hero; she is a renowned, obsessive pro climber running from unresolved trauma. The story explores the "why" of mountaineering—why sacrifice relationships, safety, and sanity to touch a peak no one has ever reached? The narrative is delivered subtly, often through interactions with Climbot or quiet moments of reflection at camp. It’s an emotionally resonant tale that elevates the game beyond a mere physics simulator, earning it its place among the highest rated games of 2026.
Verdict: The Best Video Game of February 2026
Cairn is not for everyone. It is punishing, slow, and occasionally frustrating when the physics engine creates an awkward limb tangle. However, for those willing to embrace the struggle, it offers a sense of accomplishment that few games can match. With its innovative mechanics, striking art direction by Mathieu Bablet, and a haunting score, Cairn is a triumph.
If you are looking for the best video games of February 2026, look no further. The Game Bakers have delivered a masterpiece that demands your patience but rewards you with the summit of a lifetime.
