Being half Scottish, I always keep an eye out for any game with Highland roots, and Cairn: Mathair’s Curse instantly had my full attention during the recent Indie Quest Showcase. The moment that chiptune Celtic music kicked in, I bolted to the Wishlist faster than a Highland cow spotting an open gate.
Set in early 2000s Scotland, this story-driven JRPG follows young Alex and his mum as they journey through the Highlands confronting an ancient curse unleashed by a shadowy cult. It’s steeped in folklore, family, and a generous dash of cheeky Scottish humour.
Cairn: Mathair’s Curse offers a 20+ hour adventure filled with satisfying puzzles, turn-based battles, and a world brimming with personality. The quirky enemy designs and combat setup give off strong EarthBound energy, right down to the first-person battle view and strange foes like rogue haggis and angry stop signs.
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The pixel art is beautifully detailed, drawing inspiration from the SNES era and layered over painterly Highland backdrops. It’s all the work of solo Scottish developer Ross McRitchie, who has been lovingly crafting this passion project. With music composed by his partner, the 16-bit soundtrack blends nostalgia with a Celtic twist that tugs at the heartstrings.
If you’re into heartfelt storytelling, ancient curses, and turn-based scraps with a side of square sausage, download the demo now. While your at, it add Cairn: Mathair’s Curse to your Wishlist ahead of its PC launch in 2025.
