Another Crab's Treasure by Aggro Crab is a delightful and quirky action-adventure that breathes new life into the "soulslike" genre. Set in a vibrant underwater world, the game’s premise is as absurd as it is captivating: you play as Kril, a hermit crab on a quest to reclaim his repossessed shell, armed with nothing but resourcefulness and sheer determination.

The first thing that strikes you is the art style. The underwater setting is beautifully rendered with a mix of vibrant coral reefs, murky trenches, and bustling aquatic communities. Each zone feels distinct and alive, filled with strange and amusing sea creatures that range from adorable to downright intimidating. The whimsical design is complemented by a soundtrack that strikes a balance between serene melodies and intense battle themes.

Gameplay is where Another Crab's Treasure shines. The combat system, inspired by the "soulslike" formula, is both challenging and accessible. Kril’s ability to improvise shields from discarded objects like tin cans, bottle caps, and shells adds a unique layer of strategy to the game. Each improvised shield comes with its own quirks and durability, forcing you to adapt constantly. The game encourages exploration, with hidden treasures and lore scattered throughout the ocean floor.

What sets this title apart from other soulslike games is its humor and charm. While the difficulty can be punishing, it never takes itself too seriously. The writing is clever, and the NPCs, from fellow crustaceans to eccentric fish, are bursting with personality.

If there’s a drawback, it’s that the novelty of the shield mechanic can wear thin in later stages, as some encounters feel repetitive. However, the game’s charm and creativity more than make up for it.

Another Crab's Treasure is a fresh take on the genre, combining humor, challenge, and heart. It’s a treasure worth diving for.

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth takes the beloved series in bold new directions while staying true to the charm and wit that fans have come to adore. As the latest entry in RGG Studio's acclaimed saga, this game expands the universe of Like a Dragon (formerly Yakuza) with an ambitious storyline, enhanced gameplay mechanics, and a breathtakingly detailed world.

The game continues the journey of Ichiban Kasuga, the lovable underdog introduced in Like a Dragon (2020). This time, the story takes a surprising turn as Ichiban finds himself stranded in Hawaii, thrust into an unfamiliar environment teeming with challenges and opportunities. The narrative expertly balances heartfelt drama with the series' signature comedic undertones. Themes of loyalty, identity, and personal growth are explored deeply, and the writing is sharp, delivering moments that are both gut-wrenching and laugh-out-loud funny.

One of the most exciting updates in Infinite Wealth is the expanded world. Hawaii is a vibrant playground, offering players a mix of urban and tropical settings to explore. The region feels alive with its bustling streets, serene beaches, and quirky NPCs, who often serve as gateways to the game’s colorful side quests. These “substories” remain a highlight, blending absurd humor with surprising emotional depth.

Combat retains the turn-based system introduced in Like a Dragon, but it feels more refined and dynamic. The addition of environmental interactions, new party synergy attacks, and expanded job classes inject fresh life into the gameplay. Whether you’re commanding Ichiban’s party in a strategic boss fight or using improvised weapons like bicycles against street thugs, every battle is a spectacle of chaos and creativity.

Mini-games, a hallmark of the series, are plentiful and diverse. From surfing competitions to running a Hawaiian beachfront business, there’s no shortage of distractions. The "Dondoko Island" mode, where players manage their own resort, is especially addictive and adds a surprising level of depth.

Visually, Infinite Wealth is a feast for the eyes. The lush environments of Hawaii are rendered with meticulous attention to detail, from the crystal-clear waters to the bustling markets. Character models are stunningly lifelike, bringing the cast’s personalities to life with nuanced expressions and animations.

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a bold evolution of the franchise. Its mix of heartfelt storytelling, engaging combat, and diverse activities ensures it stands out as one of 2024’s best RPGs. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer, this is a journey worth taking.

Dragon's Dogma II marks a triumphant return for Capcom’s beloved action-RPG series, blending familiar mechanics with a slew of impressive updates. Set in a sprawling fantasy world brimming with life and danger, the game builds on the foundations of the original while delivering a richer and more immersive experience.

The story centers around the Arisen, a chosen hero destined to challenge colossal monsters and navigate the intricate relationships within the game’s lore-rich world. While the narrative starts with a familiar premise, it deepens as you explore themes of power, destiny, and the eternal cycle of life and death. The storytelling is nuanced, offering surprising twists and a cast of well-crafted characters that leave a lasting impression.

Combat is the shining star of Dragon's Dogma II. The diverse array of classes, or vocations, returns, including the traditional Fighter, Mage, and Strider, as well as hybrid classes like Mystic Knight and Magick Archer. The combat feels fluid and impactful, allowing players to scale towering enemies in a way reminiscent of Shadow of the Colossus. Whether wielding swords, bows, or powerful spells, each battle demands strategy and skill, making every encounter thrilling.

The pawn system—a standout feature from the original—makes a strong comeback, enabling players to recruit customizable AI companions. These pawns learn from your playstyle and provide invaluable assistance in combat and exploration. Their intelligence and adaptability are significantly improved, making them feel more like genuine allies than mere tools.

Visually, Dragon's Dogma II is stunning. Powered by the RE Engine, the environments are detailed and atmospheric, from lush forests to dark, foreboding caves. The day-night cycle adds an extra layer of immersion, with night bringing genuinely terrifying challenges.

In short, Dragon's Dogma II is a masterful sequel, offering fans and newcomers an epic journey filled with adventure, danger, and heart-pounding action.