The Week In Games: Finally Going Hands-On With ‘Staggering’ Open-World Showpiece Crimson Desert

Pearl Abyss’s ambitious open-world title, Crimson Desert, has navigated one of the more unconventional marketing journeys in recent memory. First unveiled in 2019, it largely remained under the radar until a spectacular showing at Gamescom Opening Night Live in 2023, where its impressive visuals and, perhaps memorably, its ‘horse drifting’ capabilities, captured widespread attention. Since then, a palpable buzz has surrounded the game, fueled by its grand promises and stunning visual presentation. However, this hype is tempered by a healthy dose of skepticism regarding the core gameplay loop – what players will actually be doing for the majority of their time and, crucially, whether it will be genuinely fun. This week marks a pivotal moment as we finally get to put these questions to the test.

First Impressions and Technical Scrutiny

Early access coverage, particularly from outlets like Digital Foundry, has been overwhelmingly positive, even delving into a PS5 Pro version of the game. This specialized build was reportedly shared via a dedicated console pre-loaded with the game, a move that, while providing expert analysts with a glimpse of its potential, also raises questions about whether the visual fidelity and performance can be replicated on the standard PS5 hardware that most players will be using. The true test, however, lies not just in the graphical spectacle but in the substance of the experience. Will Crimson Desert deliver a world that feels as alive and immersive as the acclaimed landscapes of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or Ghost of Tsushima? Or will it fall into the trap of becoming a sprawling, yet ultimately hollow, collection of map icons reminiscent of some open-world titles from Ubisoft?

My own anticipation is high, and I’ll be picking up my physical copy this Thursday, coinciding with its official launch. The prospect of diving into what appears to be a visually stunning and expansive world is exciting. Yet, the immediate hurdle presented by a substantial day-one download is a notable concern. This requirement, even for physical editions, begs the question: could this be a contributing factor to why console versions weren’t made available to reviewers significantly ahead of the release date? It’s a common practice for developers to ensure reviewers have ample time with a game, and the absence of early review copies for consoles, coupled with a massive update, does cast a slight shadow of doubt.

A Packed Gaming Landscape

While Crimson Desert is undoubtedly the main event this week for many, my personal gaming plate remains quite full. The strategic depth of Slay the Spire 2 continues to demand my attention, offering a different, yet equally engaging, kind of challenge. The upcoming release of Marathon also presents an intriguing prospect, hinting at a return to a classic franchise with a modern twist. Furthermore, last week’s dive into Monster Hunter Stories 3 has been a surprisingly delightful experience. This turn-based action-adventure title has proven to be an excellent gateway for introducing my children to the world of JRPGs, offering a more accessible entry point than some of the more complex titles in the genre.

The diversity of these ongoing and upcoming titles highlights the rich tapestry of the current gaming landscape. From the intricate card-based combat of roguelikes to the tactical precision of shooters and the charming world-building of monster-taming adventures, there’s something to cater to every taste. It’s within this vibrant ecosystem that Crimson Desert must now carve out its own identity and prove its worth.

Upcoming Releases This Week

Beyond the highly anticipated launch of Crimson Desert, the gaming world is abuzz with a variety of other releases across multiple platforms. Here’s a look at what’s hitting shelves and digital storefronts:

• Monday, March 16:
• The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin | PS5, PC
• Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War! | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, PC
• Grind Survivors | PC
• Deadline Delivery | PC
• Tuesday, March 17:
• Dread Delusion (port) | PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Switch 2
• MLB The Show 26 | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
• Thomas & Friends: Wonders of Sodor | PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Switch, PC
• Deadzone: Rogue | Switch