Crabby Treasures is a standout in the realm of Soulslike games, boasting a vibrant underwater world teeming with hermit crabs and a gear system based on discarded items. This quirky twist not only adds visual diversity to the genre but also sheds light on real-world issues like ocean pollution and environmental crises.
Game Rant had the chance to chat with Nick Kaman, the studio head and art director at Aggro Crab, and Caelan Pollock, the creative director and narrative lead, about the unconventional and humorous approach taken in developing Crabby Treasures. They discussed how the game strays from traditional Soulslike tropes while maintaining a captivating gameplay experience intertwined with comedy and vivid aesthetics. This conversation has been condensed for brevity.
Crafting a Fresh Soulslike Experience
Q: What sets Crabby Treasures apart in the Soulslike genre?
Kaman: Our starting point was reimagining combat from the perspective of a hermit crab. This led us to focus on defensive maneuvers like blocking with your shell, creating a gameplay style akin to Sekiro rather than the traditional Dark Souls approach. Despite the absence of stamina mechanics, players are encouraged to engage in combat using strategic shell defenses and agile maneuvers.
Pollock: While infusing colorful humor into the game, we also strived to maintain a subtle dark undertone reminiscent of classic Soulslike lore. Our world-building, although whimsical on the surface, delves into themes of decay and melancholy, echoing the essence of the genre.
Q: Were there any Soulslike features that clashed with your vision for Crabby Treasures?
Pollock: We deliberated extensively on the inclusion of the 'corpse run' mechanic, a staple in Soulslike games where players must retrieve lost resources upon death. Despite aiming for accessibility, we opted to retain this element to preserve the genre's essence of risk and reward, offering a deeper gameplay experience.
Q: How did you balance challenging Soulslike elements with ensuring accessibility for newcomers?
Pollock: Striking a balance in difficulty was a key focus. While providing assist options for players seeking a less arduous experience, we maintained the game's default setting at a challenging level. This decision aimed to offer a sense of accomplishment to players while upholding the genre's reputation for demanding gameplay.
Embracing Humor in a Gritty Genre
Q: What was the experience like infusing humor into a typically serious genre?
Kaman: Integrating humor into Crabby Treasures felt like a natural extension of our team's creative inclinations. Our love for colorful graphics and witty dialogues seamlessly blended into crafting a unique take on the Soulslike genre.
Q: How do you navigate the balance between humor and serious storytelling in the game?
Pollock: We approach humor in a nuanced manner, ensuring it complements rather than overshadows the game's emotional core. While injecting comedic elements throughout the game, we strive to maintain a narrative depth that resonates with players on an emotional level.
Kaman: From humorous NPC interactions to pun-filled boss titles, we embed comedy across various aspects of the game. This pervasive comedic touch adds a layer of enjoyment while exploring the game's world and engaging in combat.
Q: How do you address the blend of humor and darker themes, particularly regarding environmental issues in the game?
Pollock: While highlighting environmental concerns like ocean pollution in the game, our focus is more on fostering community and resilience amidst a deteriorating world. Rather than moralizing about pollution, we aim to spark contemplation on rebuilding in the face of crisis.
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