Since Young Horses unveiled its Pokemon Snap-inspired adventure game alongside Sony's PS5 back in the summer of 2020, Bugsnax has developed into something of a modern-day cult classic. Between a catchy theme song brought to life by British band Kero Kero Bonito, a unique visual aesthetic, and a darker than expected narrative, there's a lot to dig into and enjoy within the indie sensation. During October's PlayStation State of Play presentation, it was confirmed that fans are getting even more content early next year for good measures, courtesy of the free Isle of BIGsnax update.
In addition to all-new adorable hat and Animal Crossing-esque home renovation content, Bugsnax's Bugapedia is also getting expanded. Following the show, the studio's Creative Director Kevin Zuhn confirmed in an interview that 12 new critters will be added to the game's encyclopedia. Based on hints buried within the trailer, it looks like a sizable portion of the DLC's new weird and wonderful inhabitants will be super-sized, ensuring players will need to master the incoming Shrink Spice mechanics before capturing them.
The Super-Sized Bunger
During the Isle of BIGsnax's recent State of Play debut trailer, a giant Bunger makes its presence known at the start of the video. Based on a handful of subtle revisions to the critter's iconic burger-shaped design, that set it apart from the basic and BBQ Bunger variants, it appears that this incarnation is a completely new subspecies. What could be telling is the fact that when the player hits it with the miniaturizing Shrink Spice, it retains its multiple Big Mac-inspired lettuce and patty layers, in addition to its seemingly fluffy legs.
The Chapati Moth
Throughout the base, players can uncover and capture a wide variety of flying creatures that are inspired by real-life animals and food items. Based on the trailer for the game's upcoming expansion, it appears that the volcanic eruption that's given rise to the Isle of BIGsnax has unleashed a brand new prehistoric flyer, that will soon be joining their ranks. This super-sized furry moth appears to be part Chapati judging by its doughy appearance, and the Pokemon-style cry it can be heard making in the trailer. If the airborne Bugsnax that are already in the Bugpedia are any indication, an elaborate plan will likely be needed before players can add the newbie to their encyclopedias.
The Celery Stick Insect
Partway through the Bugsnax State of Play debut trailer, a giant long-legged creature can also be seen peacefully strolling across a tropical sandy location. From the design elements that Young Horses has injected into the animal, it appears at first glance to potentially be a combination of a stick insect and multiple pieces of celery. However, along its spine, there appears to be a number of darker objects. This has prompted some fans to speculate that it's more specifically a tribute to the 'Ants on a log' kids snack, that first popped up in the 90s.
The Dango Snake
The truly unique art style that Young Horses has brilliantly created its game around, can sometimes make it hard to determine what a Bugsnax is an amalgamation of, from just a quick momentary glance. At one point in the recent State of Play trailer, a new giant googly-eyed creature can be briefly seen slithering its way towards the screen. While most likely part snake, it's possible that the food portion of the equation could be a Dango dessert, a popular treat found throughout Japan that's served in a variety of eclectic flavors.
The Macaroni Lobster
Considering the Isle of BIGsnax DLC expansion takes place on a brand new island that was once submerged below the waves, it's perhaps little surprise to see Young Horses create more sea-food-based critters for players to catch. Partway through the trailer, a bright yellow lobster can momentarily be seen, for example, that appears to be comprised of different types of macaroni pieces. Even though its pincers are understandably soft as a result of this, its apparent love for the water will likely make it a challenging snack for players to record in their Bugapedi.
The Serving Platter Monster
While the vast majority of creatures that are found within the original Bugsnax campaign are based on physically edible foods, it appears that Young Horses are expanding the lore of their universe via the Isle of BIGsnax expansion, to allow some creatures to have decidedly more man-made characteristics. For example, towards the end of the trailer, a giant domed platter creature angrily bursts through the ground. While there does still admittedly appear to be some form of cake in the center of the beast, what's alarming is the fact that its insectoid legs are actually curved knives. Based on these design choices, there's a chance that this creature could be the free expansion's final boss.
Bugsnax is available now on PC, PS4, and PS5.