Cave Crave, developed and published by 3R Games, is available now on Meta Quest and PSVR 2.
Ever watch a YouTube cave exploration video and wonder what it would be like to experience it yourself? But the logic part of your brain kicks in, and the risk outweighs the curiosity? Now, you can, but in your own home without getting stuck! 3RGames has worked hard on this early access title, Cave Crave, to bring that experience to you in a much safer manner than actually going out and exploring caves. The moment you are thrown into the first cave, you are introduced to Jake. Jake receives a calling to find his father in the systems of caves around the world, and instead, finds a mysterious tape. The tape features his father, whom he hasn’t seen in years, trying to explain everything that has happened. Throughout the different caves, you’ll learn more as the tapes reveal more, and you’ll make a choice, whether to follow in his footsteps or pave your own path. Interestingly enough, I didn’t expect much of a story in a cave diving experience, let alone one that grips you from the get-go, but the folk at 3RGames have provided easily one of the most interesting. I enjoyed the back and forth between Jake and his dad, even though I personally think he’s a terrible dad, making us chase after him in these terrifying caves. Overall, the story has a lot to offer.
Virtual Reality, I feel, is evolving as it progresses, more studios are coming up with creative ideas, and 3RGames has demonstrated some peak quality creativity in Cave Crave. I didn’t expect to fall in love with the game as much as I did. Everything about it is a joy to play, from the equipment realism, the look and sound of the caves, and just traversing all the unique tunnels. Despite not being claustrophobic, some of those tight squeezes and having to hold your breath using the triggers did ignite some feelings of fear, but I loved that; it added to the immersion. As you progress through the caves, you’ll unlock new equipment: a torch to light the caves, which is adjustable, a hammer to whack away those stalagmites, a tool to clean off your gloves, spike tools to climb up steep inclines and more. Each tool interacts with the environment in an immersive way and promotes experimentation as you go, which also offers replayability as you go back to them in different difficulty modes. For an early access title, there is a lot on offer already; it seems the updates are coming in steadily, and the roadmap looks great with promises of more caves and features. There are a few issues. At one point, I flew through the map, which didn’t detract from the overall experience or annoy me. The game is updated regularly, and issues are sorted quick. It’s also in early access, so a few bugs and glitches are to be expected.
After selling my Quest 2 for the Quest 3, I did not realise how much of a jump it was between the two, even then I haven’t explored as much of the Quest 3 as I would like (Thanks heatwave, much appreciated). Playing Cave Crave, though, is easily the best experience I’ve had on it. How does it look THIS GOOD!? It looks so realistic, and the cave reacts to your presence, whether it’s the water you go through or the wall you’ve just stuck your climbing spike into, it is wonderful how they have created such a detailed experience. The sound design is also on point throughout. You’ll hear the droplets hitting the cave floor, and the tight squeezing of your clothes touching the cave floor. I truly believe the research the team did behind Cave Crave was incredibly accurate and so close to the real experience.
Verdict
I have watched Cave videos for years. I don’t quite understand why, but I do, as it’s something I would never partake in. Cave Crave offers a realistic experience, one that seems close to the real thing from the design in both sound and graphics. It is incredible, and I had such a good time, which you can tell. I cannot wait to experience the future of Cave Crave and what 3RGames has to offer.
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