Where to Buy Crimson Desert
storefront
Crimson Desert Gameplay Video
Featured: Game Comparisons
Crimson Desert Key Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | BlackSpace Engine |
| Genre | Open World, Action-Adventure |
| Release Window | Q1 2026 |
| Developer | Pearl Abyss |
| Publisher | Pearl Abyss |
| Setting | Continent of Pywell |
| Perspective | Third-Person |
| Platforms | PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S |
| Multiplayer | Single-Player at launch (Multiplayer planned post-launch) |
| Unique Feature | A visually stunning, seamless open world powered by the next-generation BlackSpace engine, combined with a highly agile, skill-based combat system. |
Crimson Desert System Requirements
1080p
tune Minimum (Speculative - Target: 1080p, 60 FPS, Low/Medium Preset) – Low/Medium Preset, Upscaling (DLSS/FSR 'Performance') likely required.
1440p
tune Recommended (Speculative - Target: 1440p, 60 FPS, High Preset) – High Preset, Upscaling (DLSS/FSR 'Quality' or 'Balanced') recommended.
Crimson Desert Laptop Recommendations
memory Intel Core I7 12700 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 3070 140W
storage 32GB DDR4-3200MHz
1349
Model: MSI Pulse GL66 with RTX 3070 and i7 12th Gen
memory CPU: Intel Core I7 12700 H (Score: 900)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 (Score: 6600) @ 140W TGP
storage RAM: 32GB DDR4-3200MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, Upscaling likely required.).
memory Intel Core I9 13900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 4060 140W
storage 16GB DDR5-5200MHz
999
Model: Acer Nitro V with RTX 4060 and i9 13th Gen
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 13900 H (Score: 1058)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4060 (Score: 6700) @ 140W TGP
storage RAM: 16GB DDR5-5200MHz
save Storage: 512GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, Upscaling likely required.).
memory Intel Core I9 14900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 4060 140W
storage 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
1749
Model: Lenovo Legion Pro 5i (i9-14900HX, RTX 4060)
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 14900 H (Score: 1200)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4060 (Score: 6700) @ 140W TGP
storage RAM: 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
save Storage: 2000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1600 (WQXGA)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, Upscaling likely required.).
memory Intel Core I9 12900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 3070 TI 150W
storage 16GB DDR5-4800MHz
1397
Model: Asus Rog Strix Scar 15 with RTX 3070 Ti and i9 12th Gen
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 12900 H (Score: 1030)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 TI (Score: 7100) @ 150W TGP
storage RAM: 16GB DDR5-4800MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1440 (QHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, Upscaling likely required.).
memory AMD Ryzen 7 7435 HS
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 3050 75W
storage 32GB DDR5-4800MHz
799
Model: ASUS TUF A15 with RTX 3050 and Ryzen 7
memory CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 7435 HS (Score: 1655)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3050 (Score: 7220) @ 75W TGP
storage RAM: 32GB DDR5-4800MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, Upscaling likely required.).
memory Intel Core I9 14900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 4070
storage 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
1699
Model: MSI Creator M16 HX with RTX 4070
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 14900 H (Score: 1200)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4070 (Score: 8700)
storage RAM: 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
save Storage: 2000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1600 (QHD+)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, Upscaling likely required.).
memory Intel Core I9 14900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 4070
storage 16GB DDR5-5600MHz
1615
Model: ASUS ROG Strix G16 with RTX 4070
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 14900 H (Score: 1200)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4070 (Score: 8700)
storage RAM: 16GB DDR5-5600MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1600 (QHD+)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, Upscaling likely required.).
memory AMD Ryzen 9 8940 HX
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 5060 115W
storage 32GB DDR5-5200MHz
1689
Model: HP Omen 16 (RTX 5060 & Ryzen 9 8940HX)
memory CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 8940 HX (Score: 2225)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 5060 (Score: 9000) @ 115W TGP
storage RAM: 32GB DDR5-5200MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 1920 x 1200 (WUXGA / FHD+)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, Upscaling likely required.).
memory Intel Core I9 12950 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 3080 TI 175W
storage 32GB DDR5-4800MHz
2499
Model: ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17 Se with RTX 3080 Ti and i9
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 12950 H (Score: 1054)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3080 TI (Score: 9100) @ 175W TGP
storage RAM: 32GB DDR5-4800MHz
save Storage: 2000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1440 (QHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, Upscaling likely required.).
memory Intel Core I9 14900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 4080
storage 64 GB DDR5-5600MHz
2699
Model: HP OMEN 16 with RTX 4080 and intel i9 14th Gen
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 14900 H (Score: 1200)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4080 (Score: 10500)
storage RAM: 64 GB DDR5-5600MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1440 (QHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, Upscaling likely required.).
-
Core Requirements
- desktop_windowsOperating System: Windows 11 64-bit
A modern 64-bit OS would be a firm requirement.
- memoryDirectX: DirectX 12 / Vulkan
The BlackSpace engine supports both DirectX 12 and Vulkan, with DX12 likely being the primary API on Windows.
- save_altStorage Note: 150 GB available space (NVMe SSD Required)
A fast NVMe SSD would be mandatory to handle the increased asset quality and the streaming of a large, seamless open world.
Crimson Desert: Post-Launch Content / DLC
A multiplayer mode similar to 'GTA Online Free Roam' is planned for release a year or two after the single-player game launches. Details on story-based DLC have not been announced.
Crimson Desert: Game Editions
Details on different game editions are yet to be announced. The game is expected to be a premium, single-purchase title at launch, with a multiplayer mode planned for implementation a year or two after release.
Crimson Desert: Cross-Platform / Crossplay
While launching on PC and consoles, details about cross-platform play for the eventual multiplayer mode have not yet been confirmed.
Crimson Desert Specific Game Elements
Crimson Desert Weapons
- securityBow and Arrow (Ranged)
Used for ranged combat, with different arrow types like standard, explosive, and freezing.
- securityElemental Palm Techniques (Magic)
Kliff can infuse his attacks with fire, ice, or lightning, adding magical effects to his martial arts and swordplay.
- securityGrappling Hook (Utility / Combat)
A tool used for both traversal (attaching to any surface) and combat (targeting enemies).
- securitySword and Shield (Melee)
A balanced, defensive weapon set for classic swordplay.
- securityTwo-Handed Weapons (Heavy Melee)
Includes heavy weapons like spears that offer longer reach and different combos.
Crimson Desert Vehicles
- directions_carHorse (Mount)
The primary mode of transportation across the large open world of Pywell.
Crimson Desert Characters
- personCassius Morten - Boss
A boss whose fight incorporates significant environmental interactions.
- personKliff (Greymane) - Playable Protagonist (playable)
A Scottish mercenary and the main character. His quest is to find his 'graveyard comrades' and restore order to the land.
- personMarquis Stefan Lanford - Key NPC
The ruler of Hernand, a kingdom imperiled by mutiny, whom Kliff must aid.
- personThe Stag Lord - Boss / Playable Character
A powerful boss who becomes playable after being defeated, allowing players to experience his past memories.
Top 3 Characters:
(Greymane): The protagonist, a Scottish mercenary on a personal quest, capable of wielding a diverse array of weapons and elemental powers. 2. Marquis Stefan Lanford: The ruler of Hernand, whose kingdom Kliff is tasked with protecting. 3. The Stag Lord: A powerful boss who, upon defeat, becomes a playable character, allowing players to explore his past memories.
Crimson Desert Missions / Objectives
- flagBoss Hunts
Objective: Targeting and defeating the 20-40 unique bosses in the game to acquire their powerful equipment and potentially unlock their memories.
- flagMain Story Quests
Objective: A cinematic, story-driven campaign that follows Kliff's personal quest to find his comrades and his involvement in the war for the kingdom of Hernand.
Top 3 Missions/Objectives:
Marquis Stefan Lanford: The central plotline, where Kliff must help defend the kingdom of Hernand from internal mutiny and external threats. 2. Defeat the Unique Bosses: The game features 20-40 unique boss encounters, such as the Stag Lord and Cassius Morten, each with distinct mechanics. 3. Uncover the Rifts: A key narrative objective to investigate the mysterious rifts that are unleashing chaos upon the continent of Pywell.
Crimson Desert Companions / Summons
- groupNone (N/A)
Ability: The game is a single-player experience focused on the protagonist. There are no permanent companion characters announced.
Crimson Desert Collectibles
- collections_bookmarkBoss Equipment
Location/Use: Dropped by defeated bosses. This is the primary way players will acquire superior gear to enhance their character.
Top 3 Collectibles:
Equipment: The primary form of progression, obtained from defeating powerful bosses. 2. Lost Memories: Accessed by playing as defeated bosses, these provide deeper insights into the game's lore. 3. Crafting Materials: Resources gathered from the world to upgrade weapons and armor.
Crimson Desert Armor
- shieldEquipment Sets
Focus/Stats: Players can equip different pieces of armor. The item wheel allows for rapid switching between different armor pieces, suggesting players may need to adapt defenses for specific enemy types.
Crimson Desert Clothing / Appearance
- checkroomFunctional Armor Sets
Details: Customization is primarily functional through the equipping of different armor sets. Each set will have a unique appearance reflecting the game's high-fantasy aesthetic.
Crimson Desert Other Features & Info
- labelMultiplayer Modes
The game will launch as a single-player only experience. A multiplayer mode is planned for post-launch implementation.
- labelStory and Character Development
The narrative follows Kliff (Greymane), a mercenary on a quest to find his comrades and restore order in the kingdom of Hernand, which is beset by mutiny and the threat of the Black Bears. The game features a fixed, linear story focused on Kliff's personal saga, with progression unlocking new combat 'moves' rather than extensive RPG skill trees. Players will also control other characters, like the Stag Lord, to explore their past memories.
- labelGameplay Structure
The game is an open-world action-adventure, not a traditional RPG. The world is described as 'freaking gigantic' and serves as a backdrop for a fixed, engaging story. Character enhancement revolves around acquiring better equipment and unlocking new skills through progression, rather than distributing ability points.
- labelWorld Design and Exploration
The continent of Pywell is a vast, seamless open world designed to feel dynamically alive with large-scale battles and unfolding conflicts. It features a stunning draw distance and advanced environmental details powered by the BlackSpace engine. Traversal is a key feature, with the protagonist able to climb, glide, use a grappling hook, and even launch himself from trees.
- labelTechnical Showcase (BlackSpace Engine)
The game is built on Pearl Abyss's proprietary BlackSpace engine, a technical marvel that supports real-time ray tracing, advanced physics and water simulation, dynamic weather, and seamless loading. It will support upscaling technologies like AMD FSR4 and NVIDIA DLSS at launch.
- labelTop 3 Gameplay Mechanics
- 1. Skill-Based Combat: A flashy and agile combat system that blends swordplay, martial arts, and elemental magic. It requires precise timing for dodges, parries, and complex button combinations to execute powerful 'moves'. 2. Dynamic Weapon Swapping: Players can equip two preferred weapon loadouts (e.g., sword and shield, two-handed spear) and switch between them instantly, even mid-combo, for tactical flexibility. 3. Acrobatic Traversal: A fluid movement system that includes climbing, gliding like a wraith, using a grappling hook on any surface, and launching oneself from bent trees, making exploration and combat highly dynamic.
Crimson Desert Frequently Asked Questions
- help_outline What is Crimson Desert?Crimson Desert is an upcoming open-world action-adventure game from Pearl Abyss, the creators of Black Desert Online. It features a single-player, story-driven experience with a strong emphasis on skill-based combat and exploration.
- help_outline When will it be released?After several delays, Pearl Abyss has confirmed that the game is now targeting a release in the first quarter (Q1) of 2026.
- help_outline Is Crimson Desert an MMO like Black Desert?No. While it started as a spin-off, it is now a completely separate, single-player action-adventure game. A multiplayer mode is planned for release a year or two after the initial launch.
- help_outline What makes the combat unique?The combat is described as a high-skill blend of swordplay, martial arts, and elemental magic. It focuses on executing complex 'moves' with precise timing, dodging, and parrying, more akin to a character action game than a traditional RPG.