call of crab - ahri's unqualified thoughts #84

Easy to consume content: 1 quote, 1 tweet/storm and 1 article/video.

In today's discussion, we discuss Crab’s Treasure marketing and the next Call of Duty launch.

1 quote

"Video games are not just an art form; they are a way to live other lives, see new worlds, and experience endless adventures." — Todd Howard

1 tweet/storm

After the huge shitshow Microsoft found themselves in (lay-offs, incomprehensible strategy, studio closures, etc.), WSJ reports today that the next Call of Duty installment will be included in Game Pass. ZhugeEX’s take on this makes a lot of sense. Let’s see the numbers for GP and the stickiness.

Finally a win for Microsoft, I guess?

1 article/video

Another Crab’s Treasure can be summarized as “Dark Souls with a goofy crab” I guess.

In their excellent newsletter, GameDiscover goes over why the game was met with such a success. Here’s a TLDR:

• "Another Crab’s Treasure" stands out by combining the challenging gameplay of Souls-like games with a lighthearted, humorous underwater theme. This unique angle attracts a diverse audience, from hardcore gamers to those looking for a less intense entry into the genre.

• The game sold 250,000 copies in its first month, with 60% on Steam, 20% on PlayStation 5, and 20% on Switch. It also launched on Xbox Game Pass, where estimated downloads suggest a much higher engagement. This wide platform availability helps reach a broader audience.

• The game's success is bolstered by its strong social media presence, particularly on TikTok and Twitter. Aggro Crab’s strategy of engaging and humorous content, managed by their community manager, has significantly boosted the game's visibility and hype.

• Despite its playful exterior, the game offers deep gameplay mechanics, voice acting, mini-games, and a complex combat system. This combination of features ensures that players stay engaged beyond the initial novelty.

• Key in-game moments, like the gruesome crab deaths, have gone viral, driving interest and discussion around the game. Encouraging community-created content, such as raps over boss music, further amplifies the game’s reach and engagement.

• The dev/publisher focuses on building its own platform to ensure independence and visibility in the crowded game market. This approach, relying less on traditional press and more on direct community interaction, has proven effective in maintaining sustained interest and coverage.