Field report · Bearing North (Challenge) · Maddy Makes Games, 2018
Celeste
A climb up a mountain that is also a story about anxiety. Hard jumps, kind heart, perfect controls.
The journey
Madeline climbs Celeste Mountain one screen at a time. Each screen is a small jumping puzzle. You will fall hundreds of times, and the game restarts you instantly so you can try again.
Who should go
Anyone who enjoys a challenge, and anyone who wants the story without the struggle thanks to Assist Mode.
Failing fast
Deaths are counted, but the game reminds you that every one is progress. A restart takes half a second, so the frustration rarely builds.
Assist Mode
If a section is too hard, turn on Assist Mode. It is explained clearly and without shame. You can still see the whole story and every chapter.
Strawberries and B-sides
Optional strawberries and harder B-side chapters are there for players who want more. Skip them freely; the main climb is the heart of it.
Supplies
- Perfect controls
- Moving, honest story
- Generous Assist Mode
Hazards
- Later chapters are very demanding
- Short if you skip extras
Survey
Final mark 4.9 out of 5, the average of the four survey lines.
In the logbook
A near-perfect game that welcomes everyone up the mountain.
Played to the end and filed on 27 October 2026. Details can change with updates; check the official page before buying.