Summary
- Pearl Abyss rejected Sony's offer to bring Crimson Desert exclusively to PlayStation 5.
- The Korean developer will self-publish the title, explaining that it will likely bring in more revenue by bringing the game to more platforms.
- Crimson Desert is aiming for a 2025 release for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.
Pearl Abyss, the developer behind the upcoming open-world action adventure title Crimson Desert, allegedly turned down Sony's offer to bring the game exclusively to PlayStation 5. Fans have been waiting to get their hands on the medieval RPG for years, and Crimson Desert is currently aiming for a simultaneous release on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S in the second quarter of 2025.
Initially planned as a prequel to the fantasy MMO Black Desert Online, which was released in the West in 2016, Pearl Abyss later decided to transform the game into a single player title set in the same universe. At The Game Awards 2020, Crimson Desert's initial gameplay trailer stole the show, wowing the audience with its realistic landscapes and smooth combat. Prospective players are eager to get their hands on the title after years of waiting, and a choice made by the developer will ensure that a wider audience can enjoy Crimson Desert when it launches next year.
Spotted by Push Square, Pearl Abyss declined a proposal from Sony to bring Crimson Desert exclusively to PlayStation 5. In a report of the developer's investor relations, the team details its decision to self-publish the title, explaining that it will likely bring in more revenue by launching the game on a wider selection of platforms. The terms of Sony's proposal remain unclear, but large portions of the game's blossoming fanbase seem happy with the developer's decision, with many hoping to see Crimson Desert on Xbox Game Pass at launch.
Crimson Desert Developer Declines PlayStation 5 Exclusivity Offer
Years after its first gameplay trailer, fans got a chance to enjoy a Crimson Desert demo at Gamescom 2024, giving players more insight into the title's story and mechanics. Set in a medieval fantasy world on the continent of Pywel, the game will follow Kliff, a mercenary troubled by his past and struggling to become a leader. As players explore different areas of the vast map, they will find unique characters with which to travel, and while the title is set in the same world as Black Desert Online, it will feature entirely new characters and a brand-new storyline.
Hopes are high for the upcoming Pearl Abyss title ahead of its planned 2025 release. Fans have noted that Crimson Desert's combat and story will both have a major impact on deciding its success, with many hoping for a compelling narrative alongside a robust and customizable combat system. Initial footage has been impressive, but the community is keeping expectations tempered as they await more details leading up to Crimson Desert's long-awaited release on PC and consoles.
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.
- Platform(s)
- PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC
- Developer
- Pearl Abyss
- Publisher
- Pearl Abyss
- Genre(s)
- Action, Adventure, Open-World, Exploration
