Frequently asked questions
What is A Dark Cave?
A Dark Cave is a text-based incremental survival and settlement game. You wake in a cave with no memory, light a fire, gather resources, build a village, and descend into the dark.
Is A Dark Cave free?
Yes. You can play for free in your browser at a-dark-cave.com. There are fully optional purchases.
Is it an idle or clicker game?
No. It is an incremental game that is semi-idle and active. You make choices and manage a settlement. It is not a second-screen clicker.
What games is it like?
If you like A Dark Room, Kittens Game, The Ensign, Universal Paperclips, Candy Box, Level 13, or KEROS-9, this is aimed at that taste. It is not affiliated with them.
Can I play on my phone?
Yes, in a mobile browser. There is no App Store or Google Play app.
Is there a Steam version?
Yes. A Dark Cave is coming to Steam on 27 October 2026. A free demo is available now. The Steam edition is a paid game.
Do I need to download the browser game?
No. Play it in the browser.
Does my progress save?
Yes. Progress saves automatically in the browser. An optional account adds cloud save.
Do I need an account?
No. You can play without one. An account is only for cloud save.
Is it single-player?
Yes. A Dark Cave is a single-player game.
Does the game have an ending?
Yes. There is a story, lots of secrets and lore, and more than one ending.
What languages are supported?
English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Simplified Chinese, and Russian in the browser. Steam also lists Japanese.
Where can I get help?
Email support@a-dark-cave.com or ask on the A Dark Cave subreddit.