Manhattan Beach, CA, February 5, 2026 — Pearl Abyss released today the second features overview video for its upcoming open-world action-adventure title Crimson Desert, offering a look at the game’s combat systems and player-driven character progression.
- Watch the Features Overview video here.
- Download the Features Overview video here (Please also find key art, screenshots, and logos in this link).
This latest video showcases Crimson Desert’s signature combat mechanics and flexible growth systems, emphasizing player choice across both combat styles and skill development paths. Crimson Desert’s combat is predominantly shaped by player decisions. In addition to` weapons and skills earned through character progression, players can adapt to each encounter, for example, by using different mounts and in combat situations, using the environment to their benefit.
Players can wield a wide arsenal of weapons; including sword and shield, spear, great sword, axe, and several ranged weapons, each offering distinct strengths and combat tactics. Weapons can be purchased, discovered through exploration, given as a reward for dispatching bosses and questlines, or crafted directly by the player.
The fluid combat in Crimson Desert offers the ability to chain combos using a vast array of hand-to-hand combat, kicks, grapples, and armed combat moves. Weapons can also be enhanced with elemental effects such as fire and ice, adding strategic depth and making fights more intense.
Timing and situational awareness are central to success. By reading enemy movements and attack patterns, players can execute precisely timed guards and evasions, whilst creating openings for counterattacks that can turn the tide of combat.
Character progression is driven by fragments of the Abyss, a key resource used to unlock and enhance skills. Fragments can be obtained by defeating powerful bosses or discovered throughout the world of Pywel, while certain abilities can be learned directly through exploration or by completing certain quests.
Weapons and equipment can be upgraded using materials acquired through mining, boss encounters, completing quests and exploration. Players can further customize their playstyle by combining bonus attributes and special effects on gear. Some bosses also drop exclusive equipment and costumes, and in some cases allowing players to wield signature skills tied to those encounters.
Crimson Desert will be released worldwide on March 19 simultaneously across all platforms. Preorders are currently available through the official website or directly on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Steam, Apple Mac, and the Epic Games Store.
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About Crimson Desert
Crimson Desert is an open-world action-adventure game developed by Pearl Abyss, aiming for a global release on console and PC platforms. A devastating ambush in the deep of night by their sworn enemies the Black Bears leaves members of the Greymanes dead or scattered across the continent. The Greymane Kliff is determined to reunite with his surviving comrades and rebuild what was lost. On a journey where alliances are forged, dangers abound, and mysterious factions are uncovered, Kliff comes to realize that an unprecedented threat and a destiny greater than he imagined await him.
About Pearl Abyss
Established in 2010, Pearl Abyss is a leading developer in the game industry with its renowned MMORPG franchise Black Desert, which is available on PC, mobile, and console. All of Pearl Abyss’ games are built on the company’s proprietary engine and are renowned for cutting-edge graphics. Pearl Abyss is currently developing Crimson Desert, DokeV, and PLAN 8 using its next-generation game engine and is poised to grow its overseas market. More information about Pearl Abyss is available at: www.pearlabyss.com.
Eric Switzer 
Michael Fertitta