Crimson Desert: Everything We Know So Far

Crimson Desert was announced back in 2019 and was slated to be a prequel to the popular MMO, Black Desert Online. That was changed, and the game became a standalone title with its own individual identity. Other details were sparse, with a teaser being released and some other information being shared by devs. Crimson Desert’s trailer dropped in 2025, and now, more things fans wanted to know about the game have been revealed.

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Background and Story 

Character fighting an enemy in Crimson Desert.

Crimson Desert takes place in Pywel, and the game opens up with the mercenary group Greymanes facing a glaring defeat at the hands of a rival faction, Black Bears. This instability is part of a larger imbalance in Pywel linked to the King of Demeniss’ coma. Multiple factions are trying to take control of the land. Players take control of Kliff, a leader of the Greymanes, who is tasked with rallying the scattered members of the mercenary group. 

The story is initially a revenge arc of the main character, but as he progresses in his journey, he unravels more secrets and other dangerous factions. A mysterious realm known as the Abyss sends enemies to Pywel to create chaos, and other enemies try to use the Abyss for their own gains. As the narrative unfolds, players must help Kliff take his revenge while also protecting Pywel from other enemies. Each of Pywel’s regions, including Pailune, Hernand, Demeniss, Delesyia, and the Crimson Desert, offer their own stories and challenges.

Game Genre and Gameplay 

Character riding a horse in Crimson Desert.

The game’s trailer and other media point towards the game being a single-player game with elements of RPG. Only a single character is shown in combat, riding a horse, or exploring Pywel. The game has the option between melee and ranged combat, but the trailer focused heavily on swords and wrestling. Other elements, such as climbing cliffs and horse riding, weren’t as highlighted. If you want to get the game, you can buy it from LootBar.

Release Date, Platforms, and Editions

The game will release on March 19, 2026, for the majority of popular consoles and PC.

Crimson Desert will be available on the following platforms at launch:

  • PC 

  • PS5

  • Xbox Series X and S

  • macOS 

The game is available in three editions, including the Standard, the Deluxe, and the Collector’s Editions. Each of the three editions is priced differently and contains different items alongside the game. The Standard Edition will only get the pre-order bonus.

The Deluxe Edition will get:

  • Everything the Standard Edition gets 

  • Kairos Plate Set (armor set)

  • Balgran Shield

  • Exclaire Horse Tack Set (mount equipment)

Physical extras (for boxed version)

  • Limited SteelBook case

  • Fabric map of Pywel

  • Developer letter

  • Greymane brooch pin

  • 3 character photo cards

  • 3 patches 

The Collector’s Edition will get: 

  • Everything the Standard Edition gets 

  • Everything the Deluxe Edition gets 

  • 17-inch Kliff diorama statue

  • Collector’s SteelBook

  • Fabric map of Pywel

  • Developer letter

  • Greymane brooch pin

  • 3 photo cards

  • 3 patches

  • Tormented Soul Bow

  • Derictus Spear

  • Sielos Longsword

  • Shroud Lantern

  • Hyperion Horse Tack Set

The pre-order bonus includes:

  • Khaled Shield: An exclusive shield for all pre-orders

  • Grotevant Plate Set: A specialized armor set available exclusively for PS5 pre-orders

Crimson Desert Trailer

Character sitting on a rock near water.

The trailer was revealed at a 2025 State of Play, showcasing Kliff's struggle in rebuilding the Greymanes after their defeat. Multiple biomes were also highlighted, ranging from snowy mountains to forests. The biggest reveal may have been the dragon fights and mounted aerial traversal.

Conclusion 

Crimson Desert will provide players with an immersive and story-driven solo adventuring experience. The game will likely build on the success of Black Desert Online, but change things to align with the new action-adventure genre. Players can take on foes or mount and ride dragons to cover vast distances. The game’s trailer showcases an environment that is serene in one second and a combat zone the next. If you’re ready to go on an adventure to aid Kliff in his quest, you can buy the game from LootBar.

FAQ

Is Crimson Desert an MMO?

Players who thought the game would be an MMO have been proven wrong. The game isn’t even an RPG. The developer has instead labeled it as an action-adventure.

Is Crimson Desert a multiplayer game?

The game is a completely solo player campaign, where quests and adventuring can only be done offline. The game will launch without an online mode, effectively ensuring there is no multiplayer support.

Which players is Crimson Desert suitable for?

The game is a single-player narrative where combat, questing, and everything are done alone. Players who prefer a deep narrative that develops as they progress and don’t rely on others will love the game and should buy it.

Is Crimson Desert available for pre-order, and are there pre-order bonuses?

The game can be pre-ordered from various websites, and early buyers can claim the included bonuses.

Crimson Desert is available for pre-order on multiple major marketplaces, and each edition has pre-order bonuses included. 

Will Crimson Desert get a DLC?

There is no news about Crimson Desert getting a DLC. But that makes sense, as the game still hasn’t been released. DLCs are typically announced after games have been out for some time, and we may yet see a Crimson Desert expansion in the future.