Cairn Walkthrough Part 2: First Ascent & Route Planning

"150 odd people have tried and died and apparently we're going to be the first."

Welcome back to our Cairn walkthrough. In Part 1, we learned the ropes. Now, the real challenge begins. We are staring up at a peak that has claimed countless lives. The goal? Be the first to reach the top.

This isn't just a climb; it's a survival horror story where the monster is gravity.

1. The Ascent Starts: First Grips

The tutorial wheels are off. The game immediately throws you into the deep end—or rather, the high end.

• The Strategy: Start small. Look for the obvious holds.
• The Feel: The dual-sense feedback is crucial here. You can feel the grip and the tension.
• Early Obstacles: A few tricky overhangs and "wide" grabs that require stretching your climber to their limit.

2. Exploration is Key

This isn't a linear corridor. It's an open world... vertically.

We found notes from previous climbers (shoutout to Adam, who passed a wall at age 11) and remnants of those who failed. These aren't just lore; they mark safe paths or warn of danger.

3. The Robot & The Trash

We encountered a frozen, abandoned robot—a "poor bag of bolts"—and plenty of trash left by others.

• Leave No Trace: The game encourages you to pick up broken bottles and plastic. "If you ever just throw rubbish out of your car window, screw you," our guide aptly puts it.
• Resources: Trash can sometimes be useful, or at least clearing it feels like the right thing to do.

4. When The Rain Hits

Just as we were making progress, the weather turned against us. Climbing in the rain in Cairn is a nightmare.

• Grip Penalty: Wet rock is slippery. Your grip meter depletes much faster.
• Strategy: You have two choices—power through and risk a fatal slip, or set up camp (pitons/tent) and wait it out.
• The Panic: "I knew I should have stopped. Is this punishment for not stopping?"

5. Survival Management: Hunger & Thirst

You can't climb on an empty stomach. We had to stop to manage our vitals.

• Water: Essential. We found clean water dripping from rocks.
• Food: We cooked up some mushrooms and "energy gums."
• Cooking: Yes, you can cook on the side of a cliff. A warm meal restores more than just hunger; it helps your mental state.

6. The Cave of Wonders (and Techno)

After a terrifying jump and some sketchy rope work, we found... a cave. With music?

• The Discovery: A hidden cave blasting techno music.
• The Loot: Crackers, "Alpine Coke," and climbing tape.
• The Vibe: It's a surreal break from the isolation of the climb.

7. Medical Attention: Taping Up

The climb takes its toll physically. We had to perform some self-maintenance.

• Finger Tape: You have to individually tape your fingers to improve grip and reduce pain.
• The Detail: The game makes you watch as you bandage your bloody, battered hands. It's visceral.

How to Survive Wildlife Encounters

The mountain isn't just rocks and weather—wildlife can pose a serious threat. Here's what you need to know about surviving animal encounters in Cairn.

Bear Encounters

Bears are one of the most dangerous threats you'll face on Mount Kami. When you spot a bear:

• Don't run: Running triggers their chase instinct. Stay calm.
• Use elevation: Climb to higher rocks or ledges where bears can't follow.
• Wait it out: Bears will eventually lose interest and move on.
• Avoid food smells: Store your food properly to avoid attracting them.

Conclusion: We Survived (For Now)

We managed to shimmy up, find a safe spot, and save the game. The "Big Climb" has officially begun, and the mountain is already fighting back.

---

Source: YouTube Channel GameRiot