Thrilling action-adventure co-op game
DuneCrawl is a paid action strategy co-op game developed by Alientrap. The game invited you to an adventure in a vibrant, energetic desert world designed for one to four players. It also puts you in the driver's seat of a massive, crustacean-like titular Dune Crawler, equipped with cannons and treasure maps.
DuneCrawl shines with its hand-drawn map environments, seamlessly transitioning from expansive dunes to lush oases. Interacting with quest-giving NPCs adds depth to the narrative, as you uncover the mysteries surrounding the Dune Crawlers while engaging in quests that require strategy and cooperation. Lastly, rewards await those who will explore the most.
Uncover the mysteries of Dune Crawlers
DuneCrawl’s combat is dynamic and engaging. Enemies, ranging from desert bandits to monstrous sandworms, present different challenges, forcing players to adapt their tactics. The vehicle’s customizable weaponry and special abilities help with coordinating attacks and managing resources, which are essential for survival, particularly on the more challenging quests. The controls make it easy to familiarize yourself, and it can run on lower-spec hardware with little to no problems at all.
Aside from protecting their vehicles, players must also defend towns from bandits and uncover hidden secrets and other valuable caches. The art style is charming and reminiscent of hand-drawn pseudo-3D games from the early 90’s. The soundtrack is okay, but the handful of music available can be repeated during gameplay, and some people may find it annoying due to the lack of tracks. Nonetheless, it doesn’t break the overall gameplay experience.
While the game excels in many areas, it's not without its flaws. The most significant issue is the uneven pacing. Certain quests can feel drawn out, with long stretches of travel sprinkled with brief bursts of action. Another one is the lack of clarity in quest objectives. While the NPCs provide context, sometimes the specific steps required to complete a quest are vague, which can take time to figure out.
Collaborate and strategize
In conclusion, DuneCrawl successfully blends stunning visuals with engaging cooperative gameplay, creating an adventurous experience that emphasizes teamwork and exploration. Despite major flaws such as pacing and clarity issues, its rich environments and dynamic combat make it a delightful choice for friends seeking a unique action adventure in a desert setting.