Just when a sense of roguelike fatigue might be setting in, a new title emerges to reignite the passion for challenging runs and emergent gameplay. Everything is Crab, an action roguelike that playfully reinterprets evolutionary theory, has captivated players with its unique premise. Instead of millennia-spanning biological shifts, in-game evolution is driven by consuming meals, leading to rapid development of new traits like antlers, tentacles, or wings.
Since its launch last month, Everything is Crab has become a nightly ritual for many, offering a compelling loop of strategic combat and delightful, monstrous creation. This engaging experience is set to continue with the release of a significant update, coinciding with the game reaching a notable milestone of 500,000 sales.
Evolution 1.1 Brings New Traits and Gameplay Enhancements
The latest update, dubbed Evolution 1.1, introduces a wealth of new content and improvements. A key addition is the ‘Tracker’ evolution, a level 3 predator-class trait that allows players to lock onto specific targets and gain combat bonuses. This evolution opens up new tactical possibilities, enabling players to become formidable hunters capable of overwhelming specific enemy types.
Players can also now utilize a new ultimate ability, ‘Lick Wounds,’ offering a crucial self-healing mechanic. This addition aims to alleviate the often frantic search for healing items during intense gameplay, a common point of frustration in previous iterations.
Further Specializations and Accessibility Tweaks
The update further expands gameplay by introducing new specializations for the Stoner, Leech, and Spur evolutions. For those seeking a different strategic path, players now have the option to forgo specializations and instead gain 10 mutagen points, allowing for greater build flexibility.
Unlocking new evolutions has also been streamlined. Many evolutions previously tied to challenge progression can now be acquired by completing specific ‘pressure levels’ for the first time. For instance, the ‘Lick Wounds’ ultimate is now unlocked by beating pressure level 3, and ‘Tracker’ becomes available after completing pressure level 7.
In addition to gameplay mechanics, the update includes new cosmetic items obtainable through challenges, enriching the player’s visual customization options. The game world itself has received a visual overhaul, with increased foliage, trees, obstacles, and environmental elements designed to create a more vibrant and immersive experience.
The update also addresses numerous balance adjustments and quality-of-life improvements. Notable additions include Twitch integration, modifications to the Charm ability, and expanded accessibility options, ensuring a more inclusive experience for a wider player base. Full details of all changes are available in the official patch notes.
Future Content and Premium DLC Planned
Development for Everything is Crab is ongoing, with further substantial updates planned. A major release scheduled for late summer is expected to feature a community-designed addition and more free cosmetic content. Looking ahead to autumn, players can anticipate the arrival of premium downloadable content, alongside additional free offerings.
