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Release and Launch
March 13, 2026 at 08:37 PM
Updated with preload schedule, review embargo, Denuvo DRM addition, Digital Foundry details, file size
Crimson Desert launches worldwide on March 19, 2026. The game is available simultaneously on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 5 Pro, Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC (via Steam and Epic Games Store), and macOS, making it a six-platform day-one launch. Pearl Abyss is both the developer and publisher.
Platform | Storefronts | Notes |
|---|---|---|
PlayStation 5 | PlayStation Store | Uses FSR 3 for upscaling |
PlayStation 5 Pro | PlayStation Store | Uses PSSR upscaling; three display modes (4K/30, 1440p/40, 1080p/60) |
Xbox Series X|S | Microsoft Store | Uses FSR 3 for upscaling |
Windows PC | Steam, Epic Games Store | Supports DLSS 4.5, FSR 4 Redstone, Ray Reconstruction/Regeneration |
macOS | Steam, Epic Games Store | Apple Silicon via MetalFX Upscaling and Frame Generation |
PC preloading on Steam begins March 17, 2026, at 3:00 PM PDT, 48 hours before launch. Console preloads follow standard platform schedules. See Preload and Launch Times for the full global launch time table.
Crimson Desert is available in six retail editions spanning physical and digital formats. Pre-order bonuses and edition-exclusive items are entirely cosmetic. See Pre-Order and Edition Content for the full breakdown.
The review embargo lifts on March 18, 2026, at 3:00 PM PDT (6:00 PM EDT, 11:00 PM CET), approximately 24 hours before the global launch. This timing allows players to read professional reviews before making a purchase decision.
In the lead-up to launch, a controversy arose over the lack of console review codes. Multiple outlets reported they had not received PS5 or Xbox versions for pre-release testing. The only official console footage came from PS5 Pro captures shared via the PlayStation YouTube channel. Pearl Abyss committed to providing Digital Foundry with access to all platforms for a full technical analysis at launch.
On March 12, 2026, Pearl Abyss updated the Steam store page to include Denuvo DRM on the PC version. The late disclosure prompted community backlash and some pre-order cancellations. Pearl Abyss stated that all previously released performance benchmarks, including Digital Foundry's analyses, were captured with Denuvo active.
The PC version requires 135 GB of SSD storage. Physical console copies ship on a 77 GB disc with a mandatory 48 GB Day 1 update. An internet connection is required for initial setup and the patch; offline play is supported afterward.
Crimson Desert is a premium single-player title with no microtransactions of any kind. The full purchase price covers all content. There is no cosmetic shop, battle pass, or premium currency.
