Revision 4

Overview

Rifles (also referred to as muskets) are two-handed ranged weapons in Crimson Desert that prioritize raw stopping power over speed or mobility. They occupy the dedicated ranged weapon slot and offer the highest per-shot damage among ranged weapons that fire individual projectiles. Damiane is shown wielding a musket in several gameplay demonstrations, firing delayed high-damage shots that can eliminate targets in a single well-placed hit.

Rifles represent the opposite end of the ranged weapon spectrum from pistols. Where pistols emphasize speed and mobility, rifles demand patience and positioning. A single charged rifle shot can deal more damage than an entire pistol magazine, but the wind-up time and stationary stance required make every shot a calculated commitment.

Combat Style

Rifle combat centers on two firing modes: regular shots and charged shots. Regular shots fire quickly with moderate damage and reasonable accuracy, suitable for medium-range engagements. Charged shots require the player to hold the aim for several seconds, during which movement is restricted, but the resulting shot deals massive damage capable of dropping weaker enemies instantly.

The reload time is the rifle's most significant limitation. After each shot (or short burst), the player must go through a lengthy reload animation that leaves them vulnerable. This makes positioning critical: rifle users need to create distance before firing and have an escape plan for when enemies close the gap.

Rifles are most effective when used to initiate fights. Opening with a charged shot against the strongest enemy in a group can eliminate or severely weaken them before combat begins in earnest. After the opening shot, switching to a melee weapon for the ensuing close-quarters fight is the standard approach.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Acquisition and Upgrading

Rifles can be purchased from Equipment Shops in larger towns and found as loot in higher-level areas. Refinement at a Blacksmith increases base attack values, directly amplifying the already high per-shot damage. Abyss Gear augments that boost critical hit chance are valuable on rifles, as a critical charged shot can deal extraordinary damage.

Recommended Playstyle

Rifles suit players who enjoy a sniper-style approach: careful positioning, patient aiming, and devastating opening strikes. The weapon works best as part of a combined arms loadout. Equip a melee weapon (such as a sword and shield) for close-quarters combat and switch to the rifle when enemies are at a distance.

For players who want ranged combat without the mobility restrictions, bows offer a faster, more mobile alternative. For players who want explosive area damage, hand cannons fill that niche. Rifles occupy the precision end of the ranged spectrum, rewarding accuracy with the highest single-target damage at range.