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The Cave

Wii U, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, iOS, Ouya, Mac, Android • 2013

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Quick resume

Assemble your team of three from seven unlikely adventurers, then descend into the mysterious depths to explore The Cave!

Global score

87/100

Genres

Adventure, Puzzle, Platform

Pros

  • Unique character abilities and stories
  • Dark humor and engaging narration
  • Creative and varied puzzles
  • Atmospheric art and sound design
  • Good replayability through multiple playthroughs

Cons

  • Repetitive common levels across playthroughs
  • Some control and movement frustrations
  • Lack of multiplayer beyond local co-op on one pc
  • Short initial playtime
  • No skip option for repeated sections

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players choose 3 characters out of 7 and decide how to use their unique abilities to solve puzzles, allowing personal control over gameplay approach."

  • Competence
    3

    "Puzzles require logical thinking and coordination of characters' abilities, providing a moderate challenge and skill engagement."

  • Competition
    -5

    "No competitive elements; gameplay focuses on solo or cooperative puzzle solving without player comparison."

  • Continuation
    2

    "Encourages multiple playthroughs to experience all character stories and endings, though repetition of common levels can cause fatigue."

  • Cooperation
    3

    "Players control three characters simultaneously, requiring coordination of their abilities; local co-op is supported but limited to one PC."

  • Creativity
    4

    "Players combine unique character abilities creatively to solve puzzles; game features multiple story paths and character-specific levels."

  • Domination
    -5

    "Interactions are cooperative and balanced; no evidence of exerting control or superiority over others."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Dark humor, imaginative stories, and atmospheric cave setting provide an immersive escape from reality."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of interest in puzzles and story; no indication of obligation or external pressure."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Players experiment with different character combinations and puzzle solutions; replayability encourages trying new approaches."

  • Exploration
    3

    "Exploration of cave areas varies with character choice; discovering character-specific zones and secrets motivates curiosity."

  • Expression
    2

    "Limited character customization, but players express themselves through choice of characters and puzzle-solving style."

  • Fantasy
    4

    "Game features imaginative fiction with mystical cave, unique characters, and darkly humorous narrative."

  • Fellowship
    2

    "Supports local multiplayer and cooperative play, fostering social interaction though limited to same PC."

  • Growth
    3

    "Players develop problem-solving skills and learn character abilities through gameplay and multiple playthroughs."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity or health-related features."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention on puzzles and character control; not suitable for casual or background play."

  • Intimacy
    -3

    "Limited social interaction beyond local co-op; no evidence of forming close emotional relationships."

  • Leadership
    2

    "Players manage multiple characters and coordinate their actions, implying some leadership in gameplay."

  • Progression
    3

    "Progression through unlocking character stories, new areas, and achievements; multiple endings encourage advancement."

  • Relaxation
    2

    "Generally relaxed pacing with some moments of challenge; humor and atmosphere contribute to enjoyable flow."

  • Sensation
    2

    "Visuals and sound design create pleasant sensory experience; humor adds emotional engagement."

  • Status
    -5

    "No social status or recognition mechanics; focus is on individual or cooperative play without external evaluation."

  • Story
    4

    "Strong narrative immersion with character-driven stories, dark humor, and a sentient cave narrator."

  • Strategy
    3

    "Requires logical reasoning and planning to solve puzzles using character abilities and environment."

  • Thrill
    1

    "Some suspense in puzzle solving and story outcomes, but overall controlled and low-risk gameplay."

  • Value
    3

    "Good perceived value especially when purchased on sale; multiple playthroughs add to content length."

  • Violence
    -3

    "Minimal violence; focus on puzzle solving and exploration rather than combat or destruction."

  • Survival
    -4

    "No survival mechanics; gameplay occurs in stable, low-risk environments."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026