CARIMARA: Beneath the forlorn limbs

CARIMARA: Beneath the Forlorn Limbs is a short but deeply atmospheric narrative adventure that captivates players with its unique blend of eerie charm, mystery, and creative gameplay mechanics. Players assume the role of a mute, magical creature called the Carimara, communicating through a distinctive card system to interrogate characters and unravel a haunting mystery beneath an old cabin. The game features a striking low-poly, PS1-inspired art style combined with excellent French voice acting and a fitting soundtrack, creating a spooky yet cozy ambiance ideal for autumn evenings.

Though the base story can be completed in about an hour, the game is rich with secrets, alternate endings, and achievements that encourage replay and exploration. Players praise its handcrafted feel, intriguing worldbuilding, and emotional storytelling, despite some occasional obtuse puzzles and a desire for longer content. Overall, CARIMARA offers a memorable, artistic experience that stands out in the indie scene and leaves players eager for more.

Highlights

Players particularly praise CARIMARA's unique card-based communication mechanic, which innovatively replaces traditional dialogue with collectible cards to interact and uncover clues. The art style is frequently described as hauntingly beautiful, blending gothic and PS1-era aesthetics with a muted color palette and unsettling animations that create a distinct atmosphere. The storyline is noted for its rich, layered mystery and emotional depth, with well-crafted characters and a narrative that rewards careful observation and deduction. Additionally, the sound design and French voice acting complement the visuals perfectly, enhancing the immersive, spooky-cozy vibe.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the game's short length, leaving many players wishing for more content or additional chapters to further explore the intriguing world. Some players found the puzzle logic and card mechanics occasionally confusing or obtuse, requiring walkthroughs to progress. The lack of gameplay variety beyond exploration and dialogue interaction was noted, as well as the absence of certain accessibility options like invert Y-axis controls. A few players mentioned the promotional material being slightly misleading regarding horror elements, and some desired clearer feedback when making incorrect choices during investigations.