Crimson Desert, an upcoming single-player ARPG developed and published by Pearl Abyss, creators of the successful MMO Black Desert Online, is setting the stage for an immersive open-world experience. Since its development announcement in 2018, the game has garnered attention for its ambitious scope, blending various RPG elements into a single, expansive title. Dubbed by some as “Assassin’s Fantasy 15: Elder Witcher’s Scrolls of Tsushima,” Crimson Desert promises a unique blend of storytelling, exploration, and combat set within a richly detailed world.
Set in the continent of Pywel, players will navigate a landscape divided into distinct regions, each with its own culture and challenges. The protagonist, MacDuff, hails from the snowy peaks of Kweiden, but the game’s world extends far beyond, encompassing deserts, forests, and more, each filled with cities, villages, and ancient monuments. The game’s medieval setting is enhanced with the inclusion of pistols, cannons, and the mystical art of alchemy, adding depth to its warfare and exploration.
Crimson Desert is planned for release on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, and PC, indicating Pearl Abyss’ ambition to make the game widely accessible. Despite the anticipation, a specific release date has yet to be confirmed, with speculation pointing towards a 2024 release based on the game’s showcase at Gamescom 2023.
The story places players in the role of Macduff, a mercenary leader striving to navigate the power vacuums and political intrigue of Pywel. Players will recruit and lead a band of mercenaries through a world teeming with rival factions and mythical creatures. Gameplay will feature a mix of melee, ranged combat, and magic, alongside traditional RPG elements like fishing, looting, crafting, and animal taming. Transport options range from horses to hot air balloons, suggesting a vast world ripe for exploration.
The narrative hints at a world where ancient medieval life meets mysterious magic, with the discovery of beings from distant worlds suggesting an underlying layer of fantastical elements to uncover alongside the main quest for power and peace.
Combat is highlighted as a central element, offering players a wide array of weapons and magic to tailor their approach to confrontations. The game also teases the possibility of single-player or multiplayer experiences, allowing for solo adventures or cooperative play as part of a band of adventurers.
Crimson Desert’s trailers and gameplay previews have showcased the game’s dynamic environments, complex combat systems, and an intriguing storyline set against the backdrop of Pywel’s diverse landscape. From battling giant crabs to exploring snowy mountains and magical landscapes, the game promises a rich, action-packed adventure.
As we await further announcements, the blend of medieval and magical elements, combined with the promise of an expansive open world and deep narrative, positions Crimson Desert as a potentially groundbreaking addition to the RPG genre.
