Recent claims about the much-awaited release of Crimson Desert have been cleared up, as developer Pearl Abyss responded to rumors suggesting an early November launch. The action-adventure game Crimson Desert follows main character Kliff and his Greymanes friends as they travel across the land of Pywel.
Crimson Desert first drew major attention when its first gameplay trailer was shown at The Game Awards 2020, impressing viewers with its open-world exploration, smooth fighting, and amazing graphics. At that time, Pearl Abyss shared its plans for the game and announced a goal to release it in winter 2021. However, the studio later delayed the game without giving a new date, saying it needed more time to make the game bigger and better. Crimson Desert finally returned with a new trailer at Gamescom Opening Night Live 2023, showing off its fast combat, better graphics, and new features like shops and interactive animal companions.
A few months ago, a new trailer shown during The Game Awards confirmed that Crimson Desert is now aiming for a late 2025 release. But a recent report from Korean outlet MTN claimed to have found a more exact date, saying that Pearl Abyss was planning for a possible November 2, 2025, release. In response, Pearl Abyss denied this, telling Insider Gaming that no interview with MTN had happened and that no official release date had been given to the outlet. The developer stressed that any official announcement about the release will come directly from the company when it is ready.
Crimson Desert Release Date Rumors Shut Down by Developers
Hopefully, Crimson Desert will avoid more delays and release within its planned window. Pearl Abyss has confirmed that the game is planned for a worldwide launch at the same time on PC and consoles. Interestingly, Sony had reportedly tried to make Crimson Desert a platform exclusive. However, Pearl Abyss decided to publish the game independently. According to what it told investors, the developer believes this choice gives better long-term advantages, since Pearl Abyss already has a worldwide publishing system with regional offices ready to handle an international release.
In addition to the confirmed platforms, recent rumors suggest that Crimson Desert might also come to the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. A product listing on GameStop hinted at the chance of a Switch 2 version, which, if true, would let Pearl Abyss reach even more players. However, there are reasonable worries about whether the Switch 2's hardware can deliver the same graphic quality and performance seen on stronger systems like PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, which might lead to compromises to the game’s ambitious presentation.
OpenCritic Reviews
- Released
- March 19, 2026
- ESRB
- Mature 17+ / Blood, Drug Reference, Intense Violence, Strong Language
- Developer(s)
- Pearl Abyss
- Publisher(s)
- Pearl Abyss
WHERE TO PLAY
A devastating ambush in the deep of night by their sworn enemies the Black Bears leaves members of the Greymanes dead or scattered across the continent. Kliff – having lost his Greymane comrades, his family in all but name – is determined to reunite with the survivors, rebuild the fallen Greymanes, and reclaim what was lost. But on a journey where alliances are forged, dangers abound, and mysterious factions are uncovered, Kliff will come to realize that an unprecedented threat and a destiny greater than he imagined await him.
EXPLORE A LIVING, BREATHING WORLD
Welcome to the open-world of Pywel, a continent filled with mystery, fantasy, and tons to discover. Visit bustling towns and quiet hamlets, venture across vast plains, deserts, and mountains, and explore forgotten ruins, shrines, and other unique landmarks of the continent’s distinct regions. Gather resources, craft, hunt, and partake in the various activities of Pywel to also aid in your journey.
FORGE YOUR OWN COMBAT
The world is yours to explore as you will and there are many paths for you to uncover; ride various mounts from horses to wolves, even a dragon and machines, scale cliffsides and walls which you can leap from to glide, and go through mystical gates to find yourself in the mysterious realm known as the Abyss.
THE BEGINNING OF A NEW JOURNEY
On the unforgiving battlefields of Crimson Desert, there is no single path to victory.
Acquire weapons like swords, spears, and bows, and wield powerful abilities and elemental enhancements. Take advantage of the wide arsenal available to you and create lethal combinations to unleash even greater power.
With every strike and move, forge your own way in a world where a split second can decide your fate in fast-paced, visceral battles.
FACE RELENTLESS CHALLENGES
From ruthless warriors to fearsome beasts, there are those in Pywel who will seek your downfall. Encounter a diverse array of challenging enemies and bosses in brutal one-on-one duels, large-scale battle clashes, and quick skirmishes, and prevail against the threats that stand in your way.
THE BEGINNINGS OF A NEW JOURNEY
On the continent of Pywel, the rival factions of Pailune maintained a tense balance.
At Kliff's side stood his steadfast Greymane comrades: Oongka, Yann, and Naira.
That fragile peace is shattered with the sudden assault of the Black Bears. The Greymanes fall one by one in the ambush. In a desperate struggle against their fearsome leader Myurdin, Kliff and the few Greymanes who survive are scattered to the winds. Kliff, etching the names of his fallen companions into his heart, vows to rebuild the Greymanes and exact vengeance upon the Black Bears. Along this path, he would meet those who seek to upend the very order of the continent and face a mission unlike any he has ever known.
- Genre(s)
- Action, Adventure, Open-World, Exploration
- Platform(s)
- PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC
