The Cave's transition from digital console title to mobile release hasn't been
smooth, due to imperfect controls and a puzzle-solving system that
takes time to grasp. That said, with its unique characters, humorous
narration and number of areas to explore, it's certainly worth a look.
If you're just diving into The Cave for the first time, we've got some helpful tips to guide you along.
-The game features seven characters and you can select three (or, in
the case of the twins, four) for your party. You can switch between them
at any time with the buttons on the lower left corner of the screen, in
case you're in a jam and need assistance.
Here's a quick breakdown for each character and his/her special abilities.
The Monk: On a quest for peace and enlightenment,
the Monk isn't afraid to use a Crowbar to get the job done. He can
actually use Telekinesis to draw items closer- perfect for those
out-of-reach objects.
The Adventurer: In search of treasure and a pair of
lost companions, the Adventurer swings across wide crevasses and
dangerous pits, as she uses a combination grappling hook/rope.
The Hillbilly: This guy wants to find love, though
his fashion sense leaves something to be desired. He's a pro when it
comes to swimming underwater, as he's able to breathe without running
out of oxygen. It's worth noting that there's only one particular level
where you'll take advantage of this ability, though it is very useful.
The Scientist: Seeking a great discovery to share
with all mankind, the Scientist is able to hack consoles scattered
throughout the Cave, which will let you into otherwise unreachable
areas.
The Twins: While on the search for their parents,
these lads will have no problem getting you through tougher portions of
The Cave. You can use them for cloning abilities, so they can stay in
one spot while sending others to activate levers and other items.
The Knight: This brave person seeks a soul of
immense power. While he's looking for it, though, he can use his
Guardian Angel capability to drop from high ledges - which would
normally kill other characters. When you get to the Knight's castle in
The Cave, this will most certainly be helpful.
The Time Traveller: Finally, this futuristic
character wants to undo a wrong that could lead to a devastating future.
When you use her, you'll be able to activate her teleportation, which
warps her to different objects, such as gates. Her hover boots also
allow her to run across water.
-When it comes to good starting characters, try these three: the
Adventurer, the Time Traveller and the Twins. That may seem like an odd
combination, but they'll make getting through some of the puzzles in the
game much easier.
-Certain levels open up for specific characters. For instance, you'll
only be able to access the Castle with the Knight in tow, and you can't
access the Twins' house without them. However, there are general levels
where your combination doesn't matter, so don't feel bad if you think
you've made the wrong choice. There's still plenty to play through.
-Solving puzzles can be diabolical at times, due to the design and
the lack of an in-game explanation, despite occasional pokes from The
Cave. Pay attention to items in the environment, and figure out how to
use them to move forward. For instance, when you begin, you'll have to
get through a barrier on the left side - but you won't be able to do so
without picking up a crowbar, which can be found on the right side. It
certainly pays to explore.
-Finally, don't worry about dying in the game. Even if you do make a mistake, you'll automatically respawn at that very spot.