As shown in the classic episode Friend or Foe, Mr. Krabs and Plankton’s rivalry goes back decades. But what if their rivalry never existed and they took different paths in life?
Episode 47: What If…Plankton Never Met Mr. Krabs?
In this timeline, Mr. Krabs and Plankton didn’t grow up together and went their own paths. As a result, neither the Krusty Krab nor Chum Bucket ever existed. Krabs decided to take a different path, pursuing a career in corporate business. Krabs would get his business degree and become one of the richest figures in the seas. He started his own corporation called Krusty Incorporated which would merge with many businesses across Bikini Bottom. He also purchased several social media sites such as Instaclam
Meanwhile, as for Plankton’s side of the story: Instead of wasting his time failing to steal the formula over and over again, he decided to open a gift shop just like in New Leaf. He named the store Shellporium. Karen still exists but as his loving computer cash register. He’d also eventually adopt Spot too who would give the customers a warm welcome and lick. No chum to be found anywhere either. Over the years it becomes a successful business with its assorted variety of knick-knacks.
Krabs would eventually hear about the Shellporium’s success and tries to buy it out since he could use a gift shop in his monopoly. Plankton politely refuses the offer but grants him a discounted snow globe for his trouble. With this decision, Krabs declared war on the Shellporium. Krabs tried many whacky schemes to overtake Plankton’s business over the years, but they all failed. One night, Krabs sheds a tear to himself in his office over how he’s wasting his time and energy on this. Part of him is deeply jealous that Plankton has a business he truly loves while he’s only in it for money. And so, the rivalry cycle continues, only this time Plankton is the one on top.