Gamescom 2025: Crimson Desert Preview — A Complex Fantasy Battlefield

I’ve had the chance to play Pearl Abyss’s Crimson Desert a few times now, with my preview of the boss battles being the most extensive hands-on time I’ve had with the title—at least until my experience at gamescom 2025. After spending time with the latest demo build, I can say the Korean developer is crafting something that demands respect, patience, and perhaps even a notepad to keep track of all the combat combinations. Don’t get me wrong: there are still plenty of rough edges, but the core experience is well worth exploring.

The demo wastes no time establishing its grand scope, beginning with a quick tutorial to give you the lay of the land before literally dropping you into the world. Players start their journey on a floating island, skydiving into the war-torn continent of Pywel below. This opening encapsulates what Crimson Desert aims to achieve—epic scale mixed with visceral action that makes every moment feel cinematic. The transition from aerial descent to ground-level... Read more