As a dedicated fan of challenging games, I have spent the weeks since the monumental 2022 release of Elden Ring eagerly awaiting its first major expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree. That wait is nearly over, but the gaming landscape in 2026 is richer than ever, and Xbox Game Pass continues to be an incredible bastion of discovery. While we likely won't see FromSoftware's masterpiece on the service, its library holds a delightful, crustaceous gem perfect for filling the time: Another Crab's Treasure. This indie Soulslike from Aggro Crab, available at no extra cost to subscribers, presents a refreshingly unique and accessible spin on a genre often defined by its stern, unyielding difficulty.
The beauty of Game Pass in 2026 lies in its curated evolution; it's no longer just about blockbuster day-one releases, but about spotlighting inventive titles that redefine genres. Another Crab's Treasure, which launched back in April 2024, exemplifies this perfectly. Instead of a grim, decaying kingdom, players are plunged into a vibrant, cartoony underwater world. You take on the role of Kril, a hermit crab on a quest across the ocean floor to reclaim his repossessed shell. The game's environmentalist themes and overtly humorous tone provide a stark, welcome contrast to the brooding atmospheres we're accustomed to, proving that depth and challenge can coexist with charm and wit.
What truly sets Another Crab's Treasure apart in the current gaming climate is its profound commitment to accessibility. While many Soulslikes, including recent hits, rigidly adhere to the punishing formula pioneered by Dark Souls, Aggro Crab has implemented a suite of customizable difficulty options. This is a game-changer. Players can tailor the experience to their liking, even to the point of disabling genre staples like losing currency upon death. This thoughtful design philosophy makes it an ideal gateway for newcomers intimidated by the genre's reputation, or a pleasant palate cleanser for veterans who might be experiencing FromSoft fatigue. It's a testament to how the genre can grow and invite more players in.
Adding Another Crab's Treasure to my Game Pass library felt like uncovering a secret cove. It joins other standout Soulslikes on the service, such as the critically acclaimed Lies of P and the dynamic Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty. This collection, which also includes the Star Wars Jedi series and Remnant II, gives subscribers a fantastic overview of the genre's diversity. From precision parrying in a puppet-infested city to frantic combat against mythological beasts, and now to strategic shell-swapping in a polluted sea, Game Pass offers a comprehensive Soulslike sampler. However, it's crucial to remember the transient nature of the service. Games like Mortal Shell have already departed the rotating library. While Another Crab's Treasure's relatively recent addition suggests a comfortable stay, its presence is a privilege to be enjoyed now.
The value proposition here is exceptional. For the standard Game Pass subscription fee, you gain access to this $30 game alongside hundreds of others. It's a low-risk, high-reward opportunity to experience a title that isn't just a placeholder until Shadow of the Erdtree arrives, but a compelling adventure in its own right. The combat is inventive—using various discarded undersea trash as temporary shells and weapons—and the world is brimming with personality. It stands on its own two... claws.
In summary, as we stand on the precipice of a new Elden Ring chapter, the gaming ecosystem is healthier for having titles like Another Crab's Treasure. It demonstrates that the Soulslike genre is a flexible playground for innovation, not just a set of rigid rules. Xbox Game Pass continues to be the premier venue for experiencing this evolution, offering both curated classics and bold new interpretations. So, before you dive back into the Lands Between, consider taking a detour to the ocean floor with Kril. You might just find that a lighter, customizable, and hilariously profound challenge is exactly what you needed. The treasure, as they say, is the friends—and the adaptable difficulty settings—we made along the way.