Cavern of Dreams

80%
Game Brain Score Based on 750 reviews
  • graphics
  • gameplay
  • music
Cavern of Dreams Game Cover
Cavern of Dreams is a short but sweet puzzle platformer that feels like a hidden gem from the bygone era of early 3D platformers.
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"Cavern of Dreams" is a 2D puzzle-platformer game that takes you on a journey through a magical cavern. Control a mystical creature, solving puzzles and overcoming challenges to awaken the cavern's ancient spirit. With its hand-drawn art and enchanting music, this game offers a charming and immersive experience.

  • Nintendo Switch
  • PC
  • Windows
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

80%
Audience ScoreBased on 750 reviews
graphics59 positive mentions
stability6 negative mentions
  • Cavern of Dreams captures the nostalgic feel of classic N64 platformers like Banjo-Kazooie and Spyro, providing a charming and whimsical experience.
  • The movement mechanics are fun and rewarding, allowing players to explore creatively and discover secrets throughout the beautifully designed worlds.
  • The game features a delightful art style and engaging puzzles, making it a joy to play and encouraging exploration.
  • The game is relatively short, taking around 5-8 hours to complete, which may leave some players wanting more content.
  • Some puzzles can be cryptic or frustrating, leading to moments of confusion and requiring external guides to solve.
  • The final boss fight can be punishing and lacks checkpoints, which may detract from the overall enjoyment of the game.
  • graphics143 mentions

    The graphics of "Cavern of Dreams" are widely praised for their faithful recreation of the Nintendo 64 aesthetic, featuring charming low-poly models and vibrant environments that evoke nostalgia for classic platformers. While many players appreciate the game's dreamy and whimsical visuals, some critics note that the execution can feel amateurish or inconsistent, with limited graphical options. Overall, the art style and atmosphere are considered highlights, successfully capturing the essence of retro gaming while offering a unique identity.

    • “The graphics excellently capture the blocky models and over-stretched textures the N64 was so well known for while keeping the world vibrant, decorative, colorful, and even not!”
    • “Cavern of Dreams is a delightful gem that transports you back to the golden era of gaming with its charming N64-style aesthetics.”
    • “The art style is relaxing but the game style is kinda hardcore, some places ask for precise landings and one failure means a restart from the beginning.”
    • “Movement feels bad, and even with the attempt at recreating the more rudimentary graphics of the time, it just looks and sounds amateur and unfinished.”
    • “Unless you just absolutely must have one more platformer with n64-clone graphics, this game is just mediocre at best.”
    • “But unfortunately, it has many polish issues that add up, such as inconsistent menu controls, no clear button icons, lack of any real low-res graphics options, and not fully committing to the n64 aesthetic (super small text, forced hi-res, forced 16x9, and forced 60fps).”
  • gameplay122 mentions

    The gameplay in "Cavern of Dreams" is characterized by its engaging exploration and collectathon mechanics, reminiscent of classic N64 platformers. Players appreciate the unique movement mechanics, such as gliding and rolling, which enhance traversal and puzzle-solving, although some feel these mechanics could be utilized more effectively. Overall, the game offers a charming experience with solid controls and a variety of challenges, though some players noted issues with jump height and level design that could benefit from refinement.

    • “The gameplay revolves around exploring the various, colorful areas and worlds within the cavern of dreams, trying to find all eggs and other collectibles spread throughout.”
    • “The visuals were pleasing, the ambient soundtrack beautiful, and the gameplay mechanics were fun to learn and use around the different environments.”
    • “Cavern of Dreams replicates and perfects the N64 platformer experience thanks to its reduced but tight movement mechanics.”
    • “The wind mechanic earlier had been annoying, but this level was just not clicking with me at all.”
    • “Honestly, the movement mechanics in this game as a whole appear to be aiming at making the game a high skill floor and high skill ceiling kind of game, but it ends up just making the platforming imprecise and annoying.”
    • “My biggest gripe mostly stems from a few obtuse mechanics and level design choices, as well as some questionable controls.”
  • music114 mentions

    The music in the game is generally praised for its whimsical and atmospheric qualities, effectively enhancing the colorful environments and gameplay experience. While many players appreciate the dynamic soundtrack that adapts to different areas, some feel it lacks memorability and can be overshadowed by sound effects. Overall, the soundtrack is described as charming and fitting, contributing to a nostalgic and immersive platforming experience reminiscent of classic N64 titles.

    • “The worlds are colorful with quirky inhabitants and lots of little secrets to find, accompanied by a dynamic soundtrack that changes depending on the area you are in.”
    • “The whimsical music does a fantastic job at building the atmosphere along with the detailed environments, and there are so many standout areas and secrets throughout the game where you can tell they were made with love.”
    • “The music is fantastic and the game looks visually great.”
    • “The music and VFX in this game is ear-piercing, wondering if there's been any mixing, and if the dev made all the noises in the game with their mouth and increased the pitch tenfold.”
    • “My only real criticism is that so far the music has been a bit forgettable.”
    • “Didn't realize the game even had music because the sound effects were so loud I had it turned down to make those reasonable.”
  • story90 mentions

    The story is characterized as simple yet charming, revolving around a young dragon named Fynn on a quest to rescue his siblings from an evil bat. While the narrative is straightforward and minimal, it is enriched by environmental storytelling and collectible lore that adds depth for those willing to explore. Overall, the game successfully combines nostalgic aesthetics with a light-hearted plot, making it enjoyable for fans of classic platformers.

    • “The story is a simple but charming plot with a thread of mystery to uncover as you go along.”
    • “The game gives you little hints of lore through collector cards and excellent environmental storytelling, and it is just enough to make you wonder and hunger for more without bogging you down with lore dumps.”
    • “Taking control of a young dragon named Fynn, you embark on a quest to rescue his young siblings as he travels across the zany, unique worlds within the Cavern of Dreams.”
    • “The story isn't really well told either.”
    • “There isn't much more to the story than that.”
    • “The story was pretty meh... you have to piece together a bunch of it, which is complimented by some secrets in-game and the encyclopedia.”
  • atmosphere63 mentions

    The atmosphere of "Cavern of Dreams" is widely praised for its charming, nostalgic qualities reminiscent of classic Nintendo 64 platformers, blending whimsical visuals with soothing and occasionally eerie music. Players appreciate the game's ability to evoke a sense of wonder and relaxation, while also incorporating elements of mystery and tension that enhance the overall experience. The combination of imaginative environments, likable characters, and thoughtful worldbuilding creates a captivating and immersive atmosphere that resonates with fans of the genre.

    • “Great game and enjoyable; as I was playing this, admiring the game and nostalgia, not only was I having fun but the adorable creatures and characters, great old school atmosphere and calming music all sat right with me so well that I was relaxing and being put to sleep, not because I was bored mind you but because everything was just a great time as well as soothing.”
    • “The whimsical dreamlike atmosphere to both the visuals and music makes it a treat to explore the world, and you get to be a cute tiny dragon, which is also a huge plus.”
    • “The combination of music and visuals creates an atmosphere constantly and meticulously tilting from dreamy and cozy to eerie and mysterious.”
    • “The combination of music and visuals creates an atmosphere that constantly and meticulously tilts from dreamy and cozy to eerie and mysterious.”
    • “Despite it being a quite short game, it was packed full of charm and an immaculate atmosphere that bathes in that dreamlike and ominous vibe that old N64 games had.”
    • “It captures the N64 vibes perfectly, down to the graphics, the dreamy atmosphere, and the way it occasionally hits that feeling of being incredibly unnerving and leaving you unsure of what to expect.”
  • emotional24 mentions

    The emotional aspect of the game is characterized by its heartwarming and nostalgic themes, evoking feelings of joy and wonder reminiscent of classic platformers. Players appreciate the wholesome narrative and charming characters, which create a cozy atmosphere, while some moments elicit strong emotional responses, ranging from happiness to nostalgia. Overall, the game is celebrated for its engaging and heartfelt experience, making it a delightful journey for fans of the genre.

    • “I'm not sure what happened to Bynine, but dear lord you made me cry and happy and personally felt with all the little things scattered about.”
    • “A heartwarming journey of a tiny dragon trying to save his siblings.”
    • “Don't get me wrong, a dark and serious game can be awesome, but sometimes, all you want is a cozy and wholesome little adventure with a cute baby dragon in search of its little siblings.”
  • character development18 mentions

    Character development in the game is highlighted by charming and quirky character designs that evoke nostalgia for classic N64 platformers. While the characters are visually appealing and the environments are colorful, some players feel that their personalities and backstories lack depth, making them feel somewhat unimportant in the overall narrative. Despite this, the game successfully conveys a moral message and offers an enjoyable experience, particularly for fans of the genre.

    • “I felt like the characters stuck to actions and character development I rooted for, and in the end it presented a nice moral message you don't often see.”
    • “A well-crafted throwback to the collectathons of the Nintendo 64 era, everything from the character designs to the menu to the music feels authentic; my only criticism is I wish it was longer.”
    • “Excellent movement, looks amazing, great soundtrack, I love the character design (Lady Opal especially, so cute!) and a charming little story to boot.”
    • “The level and world design becomes incredibly gated and linear very quickly, to the extent that there is basically no room for player expression.”
    • “I do like the character designs, though like the story, much of the character's personality or backstory just ends up feeling unimportant.”
    • “The character design/art is very charming, but the character development feels lacking and doesn't allow for meaningful growth.”
  • humor7 mentions

    The game's humor is a mixed bag; while it lacks the cheeky charm of its N64 predecessor, it still delivers moments of cuteness and unexpected hilarity through character sounds and clever sign gags. Players appreciate the quirky humor found in character interactions and amusing glitches, which add a lighthearted touch to the overall experience.

    • “The little grunts and sounds your character makes performing certain actions are cute and somehow hilarious at the same time.”
    • “The characters are all cute, humor is all over the place like the first sign I encounter reads 'there's nothing to read, since this is the back of the sign.'”
    • “Somehow I find it hilarious.”
  • optimization6 mentions

    Overall, the game's optimization is generally well-received, with smooth performance on both PC and Steam Deck, though some users noted potential lag in the first area, particularly on older hardware. While graphics are not the primary focus, the game runs effectively in windowed mode and is largely free of glitches, aside from a possible double jump issue.

    • “The game runs smoothly and doesn't appear to be glitchy, unless that double jump issue is a glitch maybe?”
    • “Both on Steam Deck and PC, the performance was fantastic.”
    • “Cavern of Dreams is not much about graphics performance but focuses heavily on exploration and puzzle solving, making it so much fun to play.”
    • “The only concern I have is the first area being the worst optimized - either that, or it's dense/big enough to cause lag on old computers, such as mine.”
    • “Within the release of RTX 4090, many developers pursue graphics performance - of course graphics are important, but for me, graphics are an extra score for a game rather than a core item.”
    • “Performance and controls -”
  • stability6 mentions

    Overall, the game's stability is characterized by a mix of minor bugs and visual glitches, which are often overshadowed by its solid performance and enjoyable gameplay. While some users noted issues with camera control and buggy achievements, many appreciated the quick fixes for glitches and found the game to run smoothly despite its imperfections. The experience is generally positive, though some players encountered frustrating moments, particularly during challenging sections.

    • “It's a bit buggy and the camera's weird at times, but for a game that's largely made by one person, it's pretty solid.”
    • “Tldr, fun game, great (and short) 3D platformer, plays well but check your settings anyway, buggy achievements so beware if you care.”
    • “I would say it's worth it, but the boss fight at the end is not fun at all and made me quit the game; there are no checkpoints and the bombs are a bit buggy.”
  • grinding3 mentions

    Players appreciate the game's level design, noting that the sizes are well-balanced for exploration without becoming tedious, and the collectible distribution makes achieving 100% completion enjoyable rather than burdensome. However, some players find certain puzzles and the lack of guidance for specific mechanics to be somewhat frustrating.

    • “The game doesn't tell you how to open the heart doors; the portals could have a button to explain how to use them, and some puzzles are a bit tedious.”
  • replayability3 mentions

    Players highlight the game’s high replayability, noting it as both fun and engaging, which contributes to its overall content and replay value.

    • “This is a very fun and replayable game.”
    • “A lot of replayability.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

70% average critic score

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Play time

6hMedian play time
6hAverage play time
6-8hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 7 analyzed playthroughs

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