Dive into the depths of the ocean and encounter the nightmarish Bobbit Worm, a predator lurking beneath the sand, preying on fish and coral with its powerful jaws. This fearsome creature takes center stage as an enemy in the underwater Soulslike adventure Another Crab's Treasure. Aggro Crab, the developer, transformed the Bobbit Worm into a formidable Dark Souls-inspired adversary for protagonist Kril to confront.
Game Rant recently sat down with Nick Kaman, the studio head and art director, and Caelan Pollock, the creative director and narrative lead, to delve into their decision to incorporate the Bobbit Worm into Another Crab's Treasure. Pollock aptly summarized the Worm's essence as a chilling Dark Souls enemy, a true nightmare creature relentlessly seeking to vanquish Kril.
Unveiling the Bobbit Worm
The Bobbit Worm, scientifically known as Eunice aphroditois, resides in saltwater habitats, burrowing itself in sand or rocks and deploying its antennas to detect prey. Once a target is spotted, the Bobbit Worm swiftly captures and devours it with its formidable jaws. Feeding on various fish, coral, and marine organisms, these creatures are predominantly found in the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific Ocean regions. Interestingly, the name draws a grim parallel to Lorena Bobbitt, as female Bobbit Worms exhibit a gruesome behavior of severing their mate's genitals and offering them to their offspring.
Aquariums and private tank owners have faced incursions by Bobbit Worms, stealthily residing in rock crevices and emerging at night to feed on neighboring fish and creatures. Their resilience is notable, as they can regenerate even if divided. Notorious cases, like the one chronicled on the Michigan Reefers forum, showcase their survival despite exposure to various deterrents.
Role of the Bobbit Worm in Game
Within Another Crab's Treasure, the Bobbit Worm emerges as a formidable adversary in Kril's underwater odyssey. Post the Worm's defeat, Kril harnesses its abilities through "Umami," the mystical life force permeating sea creatures. With Adaptation powers bestowed by creatures like the mantis shrimp and electric eel, the Bobbit Worm promises a unique skill set, hinting at an ability to ensnare foes.
Pollock emphasized the seamless integration of the Bobbit Worm into gameplay, solidifying its place among the game's diverse sea creatures. While deliberating on inclusions, the team unanimously agreed on the Worm due to its terrifying nature, aligning with the essence of Dark Souls and other Soulslike games renowned for their formidable foes.
Despite the vibrant aesthetics of Another Crab's Treasure, the Bobbit Worm's portrayal is poised to invoke fear akin to iconic creatures from Dark Souls 3 and Elden Ring. As the game's launch approaches, players can anticipate a spine-chilling encounter as this monstrous entity emerges from the seabed to test their mettle.
Image Source: BBC Science Focus Magazine.