Every three months, the developer hosts a "Free the Castle" weekend on GOG. During these 48-hour periods, the full DX version is available as a free, DRM-free download. Keep an eye on the game's official Discord or subreddit; the last event featured v1.38 exclusively.
The specific update -v1.38- is not just a minor bug fix; it is a significant quality-of-life patch that the community has been requesting for months. Here is the changelog for this version: Castle in The Clouds DX Free Download -v1.38-
Verdict: A Hidden Gem for Metroidvania and "H-Game" Enthusiasts. Every three months, the developer hosts a "Free
Castle in The Clouds DX is a 2D action-platformer developed by Kerte. While often categorized under adult indie titles, the "DX" version represents a significant polished upgrade, offering a surprisingly robust gameplay experience that stands on its own mechanics, blending Castlevania style action with RPG elements. The specific update -v1
The developers offer a "First Flight" demo that includes the first two zones (The Sundered Steps and The Grumbling Grotto). As of version 1.38, the demo has been updated to include cloud saves and the new grappling physics. You can download this demo for free on Steam or Itch.io. This is the safest way to get the -v1.38- experience without paying.
At its core, the game is a Metroidvania. You play as Lily, a treasure hunter exploring a floating citadel. The combat is snappy and responsive. Unlike many indie titles in this niche, the hitboxes are fair, and the difficulty curve is well-balanced.