Months after release, Pearl Abyss has established a pretty solid rhythm for Crimson Desert, releasing weekly patches that add new features and quality-of-life updates. While DLC is also in development, it seems the studio is exploring releasing on a new (and unexpected) platform: Nintendo Switch 2.
During a recent shareholders briefing (as reported by InvenGlobal), CEO Huh Jin-young said, “We believe it is important to showcase Crimson Desert on as many platforms as possible. We are reviewing the Nintendo Switch 2, and it is currently being developed to a level where basic gameplay is possible.”
Of course, that’s only the first step, and Jin-young admits that it’s not “just a simple port; the key is whether we can fully maintain the graphics, action, and open-world experience of Crimson Desert on that device. The Switch 2 version still requires optimization and technical verification, and we must also review partner collaboration and whether it meets our quality standards. Therefore, it is difficult to confirm a release schedule. We will announce it transparently once there is confirmed information.”
So there you have it: A Switch 2 version is being explored. It isn’t on the way just yet, and things could change down the line, which wouldn’t be the first time that a port of a triple-A title was promised and ultimately halted (see: Borderlands 4). But at least Pearl Abyss seems to care about getting it right.
Another interesting question emerged regarding multiplayer. You would think it’d be possible, given that Oongka and Damiane are playable characters, but once again, it’s not quite that simple, even if Crimson Desert began life as an MMO.
“It is true that the action and open-world structure of Crimson Desert have long-term expansion potential,” said Jin-young. “However, multiplayer is not just a matter of adding a mode. It is a major task that requires reviewing server structures, balance, platform-specific stability, and operating systems.”
Nevertheless, the team isn’t abandoning the possibility. “We are currently conducting various studies on both technical feasibility and gameplay. While it is not the stage to discuss a confirmed release plan, we are continuously reviewing ways to allow users to enjoy the Crimson Desert IP for longer, and I believe there is room for a multiplayer mode in that process.”
Available for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC, Crimson Desert has crossed six million sales in three months, and Pearl Abyss expects to “reach even more users in the future.” In the meantime, its latest update has proven quite sizable, adding new boss armor sets and equipment for all three characters. Players can also explore the Abyss with Damiane and Oongka, and equip the Sigil of Valor on the Iron Eagle and Phoenix to use them as combatants. Head here for all the latest details.
