DuneCrawl Review: Cooperative Open World Desert Adventure with Giant Crab Combat

DuneCrawl – Cooperative Open World Desert AdventureExplore Sandy Seas Aboard a Living War Machine

DuneCrawl is an open world action-adventure game developed by Alientrap that blends cooperative exploration, vehicular combat, and whimsical worldbuilding into a distinctive desert-spanning experience. Set across vast sandy seas, the game places players atop a colossal Crab Crawler armed with cannons, upgrades, and personality, serving as both transport and mobile base of operations.

Cooperative Play and Crew-Based ExplorationSail the Dunes Alone or with Friends

Players step into the role of a Crab Keeper, venturing alone or with up to three other players in local or online cooperative play. Solo players are supported by a ghostly companion, ensuring the experience remains viable without a full crew. Whether played cooperatively or alone, DuneCrawl is structured around shared tasks, emergent encounters, and exploration-driven progression.

A Living Open World of Islands and DungeonsDiscover Hidden Oases, Quests, and Factions

The open world is dotted with oasis islands, secret dungeons, and quest hubs inhabited by the Polloi pilgrims. These settlements anchor the narrative backdrop of an ongoing war against the jar-headed Vassals and the invading Ceramicist forces. While story elements remain light and playful, they provide context for the constant push forward across the desert.

Crab-Based Vehicular CombatCoordinate Cannons, Repairs, and Boarding Actions

Combat in DuneCrawl is split between large-scale crustacean warfare and on-foot action. Crews must actively manage cannons, repair damaged legs, and coordinate movement during battles against enemy crawlers, island fortresses, and towering bosses. Boarding actions and mid-combat improvisation are encouraged, often leading to chaotic but memorable encounters.

On-Foot Action and Creative Combat ToolsTurn the World into Your Weapon

On land, the game leans into swashbuckling action with a variety of melee weapons, tools, and environmental hazards. Players can turn local wildlife into weapons, using items like Bomb Flowers or Beehives to control crowds and overwhelm enemies. This flexible approach keeps encounters feeling dynamic rather than rigidly scripted.

Progression, Gear, and CustomizationUpgrade Your Crew and Your Crab

Progression comes through collecting equipment such as Masks, Tunics, and Talismans, each unlocking new abilities and playstyle options. Weapons range from conventional tools to more inventive options like the Buzzooka and Acid Harpoon. The Crab Crawler itself is highly customizable, with functional upgrades like spike-armoured legs and guided torpedoes alongside cosmetic flourishes that give each crew’s crawler a distinct identity.

Bug Riding and Alternative TraversalRide Beetles, Scorpions, and Strange Creatures

Beyond the signature crab traversal, DuneCrawl expands movement with bug riding mechanics. Players can mount beetles, scorpions, nymphs, and other creatures, each offering unique mobility or combat advantages. These moments break up the pacing and reinforce the game’s playful approach to its world.

Final VerdictA Whimsical, Cooperative Adventure Built for Shared Chaos

DuneCrawl delivers a refreshing cooperative open world experience built around teamwork, experimentation, and discovery. Its blend of vehicular crab combat, on-foot action, creative traversal, and charming world design makes it a standout adventure best enjoyed with friends. For players seeking a cooperative action-adventure that rewards coordination, creativity, and shared chaos, DuneCrawl is an imaginative and memorable journey across the sands.