(Image credit: Pearl Abyss)
Crimson Desert is an anticipated open-world adventure crafted by the team behind Black Desert Online, the talented minds at Pearl Abyss. This game promises to immerse players in a medieval-inspired land teeming with fantastical creatures. You’ll step into the shoes of protagonist Kliff, the leader of a group called the Greymanes. With thrilling elements like dragon-riding on the horizon, this RPG is generating buzz as one of the must-watch games of 2025, scheduled to launch sometime within the year.
First introduced to the world back in 2019, Crimson Desert has since teased us with enticing trailers and a hands-on experience in 2024, echoing vibes reminiscent of Dragon’s Dogma 2 and The Witcher 3. This year, we’ve witnessed impressive fantasy RPGs like Avowed and Kingdom Come Deliverance 2, yet anticipation continues to build around what Crimson Desert is set to deliver in 2025.
We’ve learned that the Crimson Desert release window is slated for late 2025, following an announcement at The Game Awards 2024. Originally set for Q2 2024, its release timeline hints at an arrival between April and July next year. While nothing is set in stone, stay tuned for updates as more news surfaces. In the meantime, why not dive into our curated list of best single-player games while we await further Crimson Desert developments?
The game will be available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X and Series S come release time in 2025. This inclusivity covers both PC and console enthusiasts. However, the possibility of it being available on Game Pass remains unconfirmed. Its predecessor, Black Desert Online, was part of Game Pass until August 2023, so there’s hope we might see this new title join the lineup. Keep checking for announcements.
Originally envisaged as a prequel to Black Desert Online, Crimson Desert has evolved into its own standalone tale, set in the same enchanting universe. The story unfolds on the vast yet divided continent of Pywel, where you’ll guide Kliff Macduff, a skilled mercenary, through tumultuous times. Following the coma of King of Demeniss, the lands find themselves in chaos, with enemies plotting to seize power. Macduff rises as a leader amidst this turmoil, assembling mercenaries to combat these threats.
Besides intense battles, Crimson Desert boasts diverse environments and mythical creatures as part of its allure. The narrative revolves around old grudges and new alliances, echoing some of the finest adventure games with fantasy themes. Last year’s trailer from Gamescom 2023 unveiled combat gems like swordplay, weaving through Pywel’s richly designed scenery. Get ready to lose yourself in medieval combat while exploring its vast terrains on horseback.
Unlike its MMORPG predecessor, Crimson Desert embarks as a single-player open world adventure. Pearl Abyss has tapped into classic RPG themes, ensuring player choices significantly shape the storyline and game environment. Every mercenary you meet comes packed with unique backstories, adding further depth amid gripping enemy encounters. Revealed combat clips from Gamescom 2024 highlight intense boss battles akin to Dragon’s Dogma 2, plus duels and more. For a detailed combat analysis, explore our Crimson Desert preview.
Pearl Abyss introduces a brand-new generation of weapons alongside familiar ones, with an intriguing alchemy feature enhancing weapon abilities. Horseback combat is another thrilling inclusion! Beyond battles, the world offers a myriad of activities—from cooking, fishing, to rock climbing, and puzzle-solving. The game also features tactics for managing factions and resources.
While pre-orders for Crimson Desert aren’t open yet, wishlists are active across PC and console platforms. We’ll keep you posted on the latest deals and options as they emerge. Meanwhile, keep exploring with our list of the best open world games to hone your adventuring skills before Crimson Desert lands.
For those looking ahead, check out our compilations of upcoming PS5 games and upcoming Xbox Series X games set to debut this year.