Revision 9

Overview

Another Journey was a planned multiplayer mode for Crimson Desert that was removed during development. Crimson Desert launches as a single-player game. The multiplayer component was deprioritized but not permanently cancelled; Pearl Abyss has indicated it could return as a post-launch addition depending on player demand.

Original Plans

When Crimson Desert was first announced at G-STAR 2019, the game was positioned as having both single-player and multiplayer components. The multiplayer portion, internally referred to as "Another Journey," would have allowed players to create and customize a separate character with full customization options and explore the world alongside other players. Early descriptions compared the concept to GTA Online's relationship with GTA V's single-player campaign.

In early promotional materials, Pearl Abyss described features where players could "connect with others while creating your own story" and "meet others whenever you want." Levels, items, and skills were planned to be shared between single-player and multiplayer modes.

Why It Was Removed

As development progressed, Pearl Abyss shifted Crimson Desert's direction significantly. The studio decided to focus entirely on delivering a polished single-player action-adventure experience. The multiplayer component was deprioritized to concentrate resources on the narrative-driven open-world campaign. This decision aligned with the broader shift away from the Black Desert Online prequel concept toward a standalone property.

Current Status

Crimson Desert launches on March 19, 2026 as a single-player-only game. Pearl Abyss has not announced a specific timeline for multiplayer, but has indicated it could return post-launch if there is player demand. The BlackSpace Engine was built to support networked gameplay, so the technical foundation already exists. The game does not require an internet connection for gameplay (though an internet connection may be required for initial activation and updates).

Common Misconceptions

Because Crimson Desert is developed by the team behind the MMO Black Desert Online, many players assume it will have online features. Pearl Abyss has repeatedly clarified that Crimson Desert is a separate product with no MMO elements. Early marketing materials that referenced multiplayer features refer to plans that were subsequently deprioritized during the game's six-year development cycle.