In a surprising move, developer Aggro Crab has unveiled an early playable prototype of their underwater soulslike game, Another Crab’s Treasure. This release comes just months after the game made waves on the Nintendo Switch, quickly captivating players and smashing sales records with over 100,000 copies sold in its opening weekend. The early access prototype, which was initially showcased to investors back in February 2021, allows players to experience a brief segment of the game, providing insight into its development journey and gameplay mechanics.
The prototype builds on a short gameplay experience, taking approximately three to five minutes to navigate. This brevity is designed for quick playthroughs, inviting speedrunners to push their limits and explore the game’s potential for rapid completion. In this early stage, players are introduced to the “OG Kril,” alongside an enemy that longtime fans will recognize from the final release. This not only serves to engage players but also acts as a nostalgic nod to those familiar with the complete version of Another Crab’s Treasure.
However, it’s crucial to understand that this prototype was not developed for public consumption but rather as a demonstration tool for stakeholders. The developers emphasize this aspect in their messaging, highlighting that the build’s performance may not be optimized and should be approached with the mindset of experimentation rather than polished gameplay. The playful quip, “What you sea is what ya get,” adds a lighthearted tone to their acknowledgment of the prototype’s limitations, urging players to enjoy the early experience without expecting perfection.
Another Crab’s Treasure has resonated with audiences, despite some initial performance issues on the Switch. Critics and players have praised its unique design, engaging mechanics, and an array of challenging boss fights, which have become a hallmark of the soulslike genre. This positive reception underscores the game’s creative direction and its ability to captivate players, paving the way for a potential series of updates or expansions in the future.
The prototype serves not only as a glimpse into the game’s developmental process but also highlights the increasing trend among indie developers to foster community engagement by providing behind-the-scenes access to their work. By releasing an early build, Aggro Crab invites players to join in the development journey, giving them a stake in the game’s evolution.
As players dive into this prototype, there emerges a palpable excitement about what lies ahead for Another Crab’s Treasure. Fans are left wondering whether additional prototypes or content updates will follow, further enriching the player experience. For those who have yet to explore the full game, this early glimpse could spark interest in experiencing the polished adventure that combines humor, creativity, and the challenges reminiscent of classic soulslike gameplay.
Aggro Crab’s decision to release an early prototype of Another Crab’s Treasure is a refreshing approach within the gaming industry. It allows players to engage more deeply with the game while understanding the developmental story behind it, fostering a community that celebrates innovation in indie game design.