Pearl Abyss has announced that its upcoming game will no longer launch in late 2025 as originally planned! Crimson Desert is an open-world action-adventure that is set in the beautiful continent of Pywel. You play as Kliff, leader of the mercenary group known as the Greymanes, as he heads on a dangerous journey filled with battles, mysteries, and unexpected allies!
The game promises a mix of real-time combat, exploration, and story. You can explore towns or wilderness, Pywel offers something for everyone. However, as mentioned, you will have to wait a bit longer before you can enter this world! The game has recently been delayed to the start of 2026!
Why Was Crimson Desert Delayed?
Pearl Abyss confirmed during its Q2 2025 earnings call that Crimson Desert will no longer release in late 2025, but instead during Q1 2026. The information was spotted by gematsu!
The studio explained that the game is already into its final stages, with voice-over recording and console certification underway, but they decided that some parts needed more time:
- Coordinating schedules with multiple partners.
- Offline distribution logistics.
- Completing voice-overs.
- Finalizing console certification.
Here is the official statement from Pearl Abyss:
“The launch of Crimson Desert, our first large-scale AAA console game, has been unavoidably delayed by one quarter, from the previously announced schedule. This is due to longer than expected timelines arising from schedule coordination and collaborations with multiple partners for offline distribution, voice-overs, console certification, and other launch preparations. We sincerely apologize for not being able to meet the originally promised fourth quarter launch schedule. Please kindly understand that this is a strategic decision aimed at ensuring success on a meaningful scale.”
Despite the delay, Pearl Abyss is pushing ahead with marketing. You will be able to see more of the game at Gamescom and PAX West this August, and at the Tokyo Game Show in September.
The exact release date will be revealed at a later time, but you can expect a launch for the beginning of 2026! Keep an eye on our latest news for more information soon!
