- Publisher: Pearl Abyss , PLAION
- Release Date: Mar 19, 2026
- Also On: PC, Xbox Series X
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May 4, 2026I wouldn’t be surprised that, when the dust settles, Crimson Desert’s evolution is looked upon in similar ways that No Man’s Sky and Final Fantasy XIV are. There is a lot to love, and a lot to still be let down by in the lands of Hernand and beyond, but it’s still a game that lets me ride a dragon and jump in a mech suit, so that is reason enough to keep it installed on my PC and console! Who knows what other goodies lie hidden still in the desert sands that I will be digging up for months, if not years to come?
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Mar 31, 2026The game has one of the best and most varied open worlds, but that’s pretty much the only thing I truly enjoyed from everything it throws at you in the hope that something eventually clicks, it even barely holds itself together on the PS5 Pro with the lack of polish on that version.
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Mar 27, 2026Crimson Desert tries to offer something for everyone. While it presents itself as an open-world game, the reality is that there's much more to it. Although the foundations are solid, Pearl Abyss doesn't stop there, adding multiple superfluous systems and mechanics that only cause the game to constantly stumble. While there are some quality elements, everything surrounding the good ideas is marred by a terrible interface, unresponsive controls, and a structure that lacks a clear direction. Like a buffet, Crimson Desert throws too much at us, but each bite is, in most cases, a disappointment.
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Mar 23, 2026Crimson Desert is an uneven mix of various systems and genres, which, despite being overwhelming, is somehow entertaining. Although its world is equally chaotic, it turns out to be charming and full of possibilities. However, base systems like the PS5 suffer from poor lighting and erratic textures that tarnish the experience. Those who can forgive the aforementioned will have a good enough experience.
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Mar 30, 2026Crimson Desert is the very definition of a cult classic. It shows lofty ambitions whilst Pearl Abyss are effectively going with what they know. There's some exemplary exploration and world design on display but the quest design feels incredibly basic. It's always bringing some new mechanic or system into view but that dilutes the game's focus. I've had some fun with it but it's been heavily clouded by an incredibly slow start, awkward controls and some truly awful bosses.
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Mar 26, 2026We can't fully recommend Crimson Desert in its current state on PS5. Far too many technical issues — of varying shapes and sizes — hold the experience back. But given time, and despite its obvious narrative shortcomings, Pearl Abyss' fantasy outing has the potential to be something truly special. As an open world adventure, it can be utterly engrossing; a smorgasbord of systems and mechanics that somehow — against all odds — form an intoxicating whole. For better or worse, there's simply nothing like Crimson Desert.