Crimson Desert emerges as a multifaceted epic in the realm of video games, embodying the essence of a “Yes, and” approach. This action RPG is a treasure trove of mechanics and ideas, offering players an expansive playground filled with opportunities for exploration and engagement.
What You Need to Know
What is it? An epic fantasy action RPG with a million different things to do.
Release date: March 19, 2026
Expect to pay: /£55
Developer: Pearl Abyss
Publisher: Pearl Abyss
Reviewed on: Nvidia GeForce RTX3070, AMD Ryzen 9 3900XT, 32GB RAM
Steam Deck: TBA
Link: Official site
With its roots deeply embedded in the MMO genre, Crimson Desert presents a complex web of systems, diverse build options, and a questing experience that can feel somewhat lackluster. Pearl Abyss has crafted a game that caters to those who thrive on complexity and depth. After investing 75 hours, I found myself oscillating between fascination and frustration, feeling as though I had only skimmed the surface of its vast offerings. The sheer scale of the game is staggering, making it a challenge to articulate my thoughts coherently.
Off a Kliff
At the heart of the narrative is Kliff, a rugged Scottish character voiced by Alec Newman, known for his role in Cyberpunk 2077. Following a brutal ambush by the Black Bears, Kliff is left wounded and alone, setting the stage for a journey of rebuilding and alliance formation. While the premise is intriguing, the storytelling lacks the depth to elevate it beyond the ordinary. The pacing feels disjointed, leaving players grappling with fragmented narratives and unclear character motivations.
Interactions among characters can feel stilted, and the thematic elements often clash, creating a narrative that struggles to find its footing. The game introduces players to a surreal, futuristic realm called the Abyss, only to largely abandon it for the next thirty hours. This inconsistency serves as a reminder of Pearl Abyss’s MMO origins, where storytelling sometimes takes a backseat to gameplay mechanics.
However, the side quests shine brightly in contrast to the main storyline. Engaging with fellow Greymanes reveals a cast of endearing characters, each with their quirks. From the foul-mouthed Yann to the bossy Naira, these interactions provide a refreshing and humorous respite from the overarching narrative’s seriousness. Moments of levity, such as crafting bows for children or gambling on behalf of a comrade, ground the experience in a relatable reality.
Systems Galore
Crimson Desert is a veritable buffet of gameplay systems, offering players an astonishing array of activities:
- Invest in stocks
- Engage in black market dealings
- Chop down trees and mine ore
- Participate in arm wrestling
- Tame horses and expand your camp
- Decorate your home
- Interact with animals in whimsical ways
This overwhelming variety can be both exhilarating and bewildering. While some systems, like the gambling mini-game, provide delightful surprises, others, such as horse taming, can lead to frustration due to poorly explained mechanics. The absence of a robust storage system also raises eyebrows, especially in a game that encourages resource management and crafting.
Fast travel points are scattered across the expansive map, often locked behind puzzles that can be frustratingly obtuse. While the world of Pywel is stunning, filled with vibrant landscapes and lively wildlife, navigating its intricacies can sometimes feel like a chore.
Hack ‘n’ Slash
Combat in Crimson Desert is a highlight, allowing players to unleash a flurry of attacks with fluidity and style. Kliff’s skill tree enhances combat options, introducing unique abilities that keep battles engaging. Unarmed combat adds an unexpected layer of fun, while magic abilities provide additional tactical choices.
As players progress, they will also recruit other characters, such as the agile Damiane and the formidable Oongka. However, the game often nudges players back to Kliff, limiting the exploration of these characters’ potential. Boss battles, while visually impressive, can be punishing and may detract from the overall enjoyment of combat.
Despite its flaws, Crimson Desert runs smoothly on mid-range PCs, showcasing impressive performance even during chaotic battles. The world is beautifully rendered, though character models may lack the polish seen in other titles.
Ultimately, Crimson Desert is a bold attempt to blend numerous gameplay elements into a cohesive experience. While it may not achieve the mastery of its more focused counterparts, its ambition and scale invite players to delve deeper into its multifaceted world, promising an adventure that is as captivating as it is complex.
