Crimson Desert Delayed Until Early 2026 Due to Voiceover Work, Console Certification, and Launch Preparations

Pearl Abyss’ long-anticipated RPG Crimson Desert has been a recurring topic here, especially given its promised Grand Theft Auto Online-inspired multiplayer mode—though recent previews have focused solely on its single-player battles. Now, players will need to hold out a bit longer: The studio announced during its Q2 2025 earnings call that the game’s launch has been delayed to Q1 2026.

Pearl Abyss cited logistical hurdles, including delayed offline distribution planning, localization for multiple regions, console platform certifications, and partner collaborations, as reasons for the shift. The company emphasized that the release timeline remains flexible, with a concrete date to be announced “at a more appropriate time based on business considerations”—a vague assurance unlikely to satisfy eager fans.

On the upside, the studio confirmed plans to showcase an expanded open-world demo at Gamescom, PAX West, and Tokyo Games Show. This build will highlight another single-player story segment focused on protagonist Kliff Greymane’s quest to reunite his mercenary crew. While these events offer hands-on glimpses, the multiplayer experience—still shrouded in mystery—won’t surface until 2026. For now, the wait continues.