From its many disjointed components and gameplay mechanics unfold out throughout a stunning open world, Crimson Desert has slowly however certainly taken form. A brand new hands-on preview by IGN outlines every part that you simply’ll do in between battling spectacular bosses and assaulting forts, and that features coping with the “dozen and dozens” of factions.
There are some caveats, nevertheless. Pearl Abyss clarified that they’re not just like the factions seen in, say, Fallout. Whether or not as allies or potential enemies, neither will have an effect on the principle story or ending. You’ll have some questlines, such because the Home of Wells and its Duke, tasking you to retake a fortress, battling rebels all through.
So what’s the purpose? The factions are extra like “important actors within the plot,” in line with the developer, and supply “extra content material for gamers to finish.” Which isn’t the worst strategy – take a look at the wonderful aspect quests in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt or Ghost of Yōtei, for instance, that had no bearing on the principle story. Nonetheless, it stays to be seen if Pearl Abyss’s faction quests can obtain that very same stage of narrative high quality.
Crimson Desert launches on March nineteenth, 2026, for Xbox Collection X/S, PS5, and PC. Take a look at the newest gameplay right here, showcasing an epic battle in opposition to a mechanical dragon named Golden Star. Alternatively, you possibly can study extra concerning the totally different mounts, together with a mech engineered by dwarves.

