The Game Bakers to Release Free “On the Trail” DLC Series for Climbing Sim Cairn
The Game Bakers has announced a new series of free downloadable content (DLC) drops for its mountain climbing simulation, Cairn. Titled “On the Trail,” the expansion series will start this summer with the release of the first update, Deep Water.
The upcoming Deep Water DLC introduces “water soloing,” a real-world climbing discipline where athletes scale coastal rock faces directly above open water. This mechanic fundamentally alters the game’s risk profile; while falls in the base game are typically punishing, players in this expansion can drop into the water and attempt the climb again without automatically dying.
Alongside this new mechanic, the update will add three new climbing locations that challenge players to follow the path of a legendary climber. This shift toward more experimental gameplay provides a contrast to the high-tension, deliberate movement required in the core experience.
Expanding the game’s roster, the update too makes Marco—originally a supporting character—a fully playable avatar alongside the protagonist, Aava. While the developer has not specified if Marco possesses different mechanical attributes, his inclusion allows players to revisit previously cleared locations from a new perspective.
The announcement was made during the Triple-i Initiative showcase, an event dedicated to highlighting indie titles. This move to provide free content follows a strong commercial launch for the mountain climbing adventure, which sold 200,000 copies across PC and PS5 during its first weekend. The base game typically retails for $30.
Cairn has distinguished itself as a rigorous simulation, utilizing a complex control scheme—including a manual mode for independent limb control—that requires players to manage balance, stamina, gear, and route planning. By introducing free expansions, The Game Bakers is deepening the engagement for a community already invested in the technical precision of the simulation.
For those looking to evaluate the experience on current-gen hardware, a detailed review of the PS5 version is available, while indie gaming fans have welcomed the commitment to free post-launch support.
